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Summer art exhibitions |
Jirské námestí 33 Royal Garden, Prague Castle Prague 11908 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 (Castle information) http://www.hrad.cz/en/prazsky_... |
The long, narrow hall once used for aristocratic sports has proved extremely suitable for summer art exhibitions. It was renovated in 1952 and thrown open to the public in 1989. On posters, it may be identified only by its Czech name, 'Micovna'. The shows range from retrospectives of significant Czechs painters and Norwegian tapestries to group shows by the best contemporary Czech glass artists. . Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Prague's number one attraction |
Malá Strana Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2422 0569 |
Take in a busker's tune or simply enjoy stunning views of the castle above and river below. Linking the Lesser Side with the Old Town, the pedestrian bridge's foundation stone was laid in 1357 on July 9th at 5:31am (note the sequence: 1357 9 7 531); it was believed that a sequence of odd numbers would secure successful construction. Between 1683 and 1928, 30 statues of saints were placed along the bridge. At statue 16, there is a plaque, which visitors can rub to give them good luck and ensure their return to Prague. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Central Europe's oldest university |
Ovocný trh 5 Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2449 1111 http://www.cuni.cz/ |
This university is the oldest in all of Central Europe; it opened its doors more than seven centuries ago, in 1348, on the decree of Pope Clement VI. The four departments of learning back then were liberal arts, medicine, law, and theology (there are now 17 faculties offered). Charles I sanctioned it in 1349, and distinguished alumni include Bernard Bolzano the famous mathematician-philosopher, Gerti Cori the Nobel-winning biochemist, and Franz Kafka, the celebrated absurdist author. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Medieval Monastery |
Husova 8 Prague Czech Republic |
Founded in the 13th century, the Church of Saint Jilji (or Giles in English) became a base for Dominican monks who heavily renovated the structure in the late 14th century. The ceiling artwork was painted in the mid-1700s by V.V. Reiner who is buried in the church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Fred and Ginger building |
Rašínovo nábreží 80 Prague 12000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourism Information Centre) |
Arguably the reason for the biggest architectural controversy ever in the city, the post-modern "Dancing House" portrays a tango couple in an outfitted glass skirt with tussled haired held by a narrow concrete column. Situated on the banks of the Vltava River, the Fred and Ginger Building, built by American Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic, contains several offices, a street level bar and fancy French restaurant on top. The building is amongst the most unusual of Prague's varied architectural sights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The writer's birthplace |
Namesti Franze Kafky 3 Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2422 7452 (Franz Kafka Society) http://www.franzkafka-soc.cz |
Prague's most famous citizen was born here in 1883. Kafka's short life was almost entirely spent in the Old Town, and his novels and stories - although never referring to the city by name - are steeped in its atmosphere. The exhibition consists of texts and photographs based on the author's life. A small gift shop specializes in Kafka-related memorabilia. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Explore Prague through Kafka |
Hergetova Cihelna, Cihelná 2b Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 5753 5507 / +420 2 2145 1400 http://www.kafkamuseum.cz/ |
Centre de Culrura Contemporania in Barcelona (CCCB) brought this creative exhibit to life. Having penned The Trial, Metamorphosis, and The Castle, Franz Kafka (1883-1924) is the apostle of the literature of paranoia. While Kafka never specifies the exact setting within his stories, Prague's presence is powerful within many. The city has also made a lasting impression on the author himself. These ideas are highlighted in the museum's two sections, Existential Space and Imaginary Topography. Featuring first editions of Kafka's works, letters, drawings, manuscripts, and audio-visual pieces, this museum allows you to explore Prague through Kafka. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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On the Royal Castle grounds |
Jirské Námestí 33 Prague Castle Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 / +420 2 2437 2434 / +420 2 2437 2435 http://www.hrad.cz/en/prazsky_... |
The Garden on the Ramparts, or "Zahrada Na Valech" is a part of the Royal Castle complex, located to the south side of the castle grounds. It underwent some major changes between the '20s and '30s under the watchful eye of the famed architect Jože Plečnik, but was closed to the public soon after. Today, of course, one can easily visit the garden—it offers a nice view of the Malá Strana. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Vibrant street market |
Havelska Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 217 1444 |
In the heart of the Old Town, around 100 meters from Old Town Square, stands the Havelska Street Market. Here, traders sell art, fruit, vegetables, jewellry, toys and anything else small enough to pack on to their open-air wooden stands. On either side of the street are shops that sell virtually everything else, including a herbal store that sells herbs and teas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Prague's main railway station |
Wilsonova 80 Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2422 4200 http://www.cdrail.cz |
Although the interior might be better known to locals for attracting not exactly the most upstanding members of society who loiter day and night, the huge structure is an architectural landmark in its own right. Having recently been refurbished, the station still features prominent art nouveau architecture, with naked figures and high roofs. Designed by Josef Fanta and opened in 1909, it is best approached from Wilsonova Street behind the National Museum so it can be enjoyed in all its glory. This is the main station in Prague with trains going to all the major Czech cities and the rest of Europe. Guests waiting for a train should wander up to the beautifully furnished café to kill time in more pleasant surroundings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dedicated to a Czech martyr |
Staromestske Namesti Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
The monument to Jan Hus stands in the centre of Old Town Square. It was sculpted by Ladislav Saloun and unveiled in July 1915 on the 500th anniversary of Hus' death. Jan Hus (1369-1415) was a Czech theologian and preacher who became Rector of Charles University in 1403. He drew attention to the poor social conditions in the city and criticised the funding of the Papal Wars. He was tried for heresy in 1415 and burnt at the stake, thus becoming a Czech martyr and national hero whose death is celebrated with a national holiday on July 6th each year Review © 2007, Wcities |
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In memory of anti-communist martyrs |
Václavské námestí 68 Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
Just past the Wenceslas Monument on the city's longest square stands the memorial to Jan Palach, a young Czech student who set himself alight on January 16 1969 as a protest against the Soviet occupation. The shrine to Palach and another student who followed his example, Jan Zajic, is now garlanded with flowers and photographs, and is regarded as a memorial to those who fell at the hands of Communism. Groups gather annually on this day to commemorate his martyrdom, placing wreaths and candles on the spot. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Swing and sway |
Námestí Curieovych Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Prague Tourist Information Centre) |
This floating club plies the river several nights a week, departing at 8:30p and returning at 11p. The music varies from cruise to cruise. You might hear dixieland, traditional jazz, swing or even world music. Truly an unforgettable experience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tradition & History |
Stareho hrbitova 3a Prague 16000 Czech Republic +420 221 711 511 http://www.jewishmuseum.cz/en/... |
This Ceremonial Hall is one of only a few original buildings from Prague's old Jewish Quarter. This pseudo-Romanesque style building was used for various religious services and ceremonies, as well as a mortuary. On the ground and upper floors of the Hall, the permanent exhibition of Jewish Customs and Traditions is housed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A peaceful area in Prague |
Next to Charles Bridge Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist information) |
Separated from the left bank, just to the left of Charles Bridge by a narrow stream called Certovka (Devil's Brook), is Kampa, a little island on the Vltava River. Washerwomen would gather here to wash their laundry using the water from several flour mill wheels which still worked until the mid 1930's. One of the best places to spend a lazy summer day, this attracts a wide range of visitors from elderly, morning dog-walkers to dread-locked frisbee throwers to romantics relaxing on the spacious lawn. There are a number of bars and restaurants in this small area for a quiet reflective time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Water Music |
U Výstavište LDS 1/20 Prague 17000 Czech Republic +420 2 2010 3295 http://www.krizikovafontana.cz |
If the thought of water jets and lasers spraying and pulsing to music intrigues you, take a look at this summertime attraction. As music blares, water spurts from dozens of jets scattered around a large pool. A computer-controlled light show adds appropriate dramatic touches. It makes quite a spectacle, especially on a warm evening. The music varies with each "performance" and could be anything from pop hits and moody electronics to one of the more exciting classical pieces like Dvorak's New World Symphony. All water shows are on the hour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Formerly the oyal vineyards |
Valdštejnské námestí 3 Prague 11800 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
This is the ideal place to pass a lazy summer afternoon, with romantic views of the red-tiled houses of the Lesser Side (Mala Strana) below and the Vltava River in the distance. These terrace-like gardens were originally the Royal vineyards and were created by I J Palliardy in the early 18th century. Extensive reconstruction took place in the latter half of the 20th century but the gardens have now been re-opened to the public. They are accessible either from the castle above or from a new entrance on Valdstejnska street below. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Site of notorious wartime atrocity |
Cervna 10 Prague 27354 Czech Republic +420 3 1225 3063 http://www.lidice-memorial.cz |
Towns all over the world are called Lidice, after this tiny village just outside Prague because of its tragic history. On May 27 1942, Czech partisans assassinated Reinhard Heydrich, a top Nazi who ruled the Protectorate. He was also instrumental in the Final Solution, the plan to exterminate Europe's Jewish population. Based on unproven links between Lidice and one of the assassins, Hitler had the village razed to the ground on June 10. Gestapo troops shot 196 adult men that day. All the women and all but a few children were sent to concentration camps. A short film in Czech retells the story. There are memorial plaques to the inhabitants and documentary displays about the German action and the resulting international outrage. The memorial stands in a park on the site of the village. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Panoramic views of Prague |
Letenské Sady Prague 17000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
Located on the Letna parkland overlooking the Vltava River and city center, this structure was erected to replace the Stalin Monument - which at the time was the largest in the world. The Stalin monument was built in the early 1950's and unveiled on 1st May 1955 as a "lasting" tribute to the deceased Communist leader. However, Nikita Kruschev soon denounced Stalin and, under his instructions, the monument was blown up in 1962 leaving only the huge concrete base. Now used as a picnic area, it can be reached by walking across the Stefaniku Bridge from the main city. Just underneath the structure are the nuclear bunkers, built to protect the Communist elite but which are now used as a meeting place for the young people of Prague. A short walk away is the Hanavsky Pavilion which was built in 1891 and which now serves as a restaurant/café. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Scene of a tragic drama |
Resslova 9a Prague 12000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
Following the assassination of the Bohemian puppet state's Nazi overseer, Reinhard Heydrich, in May, 1942, the two Czechoslovak paratroopers who carried out the deed and several other partisans fled to the crypt of this Orthodox church. Another partisan betrayed them to the Germans, who tried first to shoot their way into the crypt, then to flush the men out with water. Finally, the resistance fighters committed suicide when they realized there was no escaping the Nazi trap. This dramatic story is told by photo displays in the crypt itself. The Czechs carried out relatively few acts of resistance against the Nazis, yet hundreds of innocent people (including almost the entire village of Lidice) paid with their lives for the Heydrich assassination. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Photographic exhibitions |
Jirská 6 Prazsky Castle Prague 11900 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 http://www.hrad.cz/en/prazsky_... |
The gallery space in Nejvyssi Purkrabstvi (Supreme Burgrave's House) is used for a half-dozen large photography shows every year. It's a great place to get reacquainted with world-renowned photographers or to discover young Czechs artists who use a variety of photographic media. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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17th Century Street |
Malana Strana, Prague 1 Prague 110 00 Czech Republic +420 2489 7390 |
Walk down history at Prague and enjoy the architecture along the magnificent Nerudova Street. This beautiful street is the pathway to the Prague Castle and is frequented by tourists. The stunning houses that line up this ancient street are the main attractions. An interesting feature is that instead of numbers; famous signs lined up on the houses are At The Two Suns, At Three Black Eagles, At The Three Fiddles, At The Golden Lion and At The Red Lion. Named after the Czech poet Jan Neruda, a must-visit for those who enjoy a walk down memory lane. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The modern National Theatre |
Narodni triad 4 Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2493 1482 http://www.narodni-divadlo.cz/ |
Nova Scena (or "The New Stage") is the modern extension of the National Theatre on Narodni and is located just behind it. Designed by Karel Prager, it was completed in 1983 and is now used for the theatre company's more modern productions and also for the famous magic lantern shows. Though lacking the prestige of the National Theatre, it has earned its own respectable reputation for quality performances. An information centre within, with an up-to-date ticket office, provides information on all theatre and classical music productions in Prague. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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History written in stone |
Siroka 3 Prague, CZ 11000 Czech Republic +420 221 711 511 http://www.jewishmuseum.cz/en/... |
In the center of Prague's old Jewish Quarter lies a cemetery dating to the first half of the 15th century. The cemetery contains about 12,000 tombstones, including those of poet Avigdor Karo, astronomer David Gans, and Rabbi Loew, who is important in Jewish mythology because of his association with the legend of Golem. A pleasant day-trip, the cemetery also serves as a poignant reminder of the historical importance of Jews in Prague. The cemetery is operated by the Jewish Museum in Prague. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ancient, pedestrianised square |
Staromestske namesti Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
The oldest and most important square in historic Prague, dating from before the 12th century, it was originally a market place where merchants from all over Europe gathered. The square has witnessed many events of historical importance including the execution of 27 Bohemian squires in 1621 and the installation of the new city council in 1784 after the five districts of Prague were united. It was also the epicenter of the Prague Uprising in May 1945. The Hus Monument (1915) stands in the square's center. The monument is surrounded by a baroque mantle of some of the city's finest buildings (all of great historic and architectural interest) colored in pastel hues. Nowadays, the square is closed to traffic and serves as the setting for many outdoor restaurants, bars and cafes as well as for stalls selling traditional Czech arts and crafts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Large Prague cemetery |
Vinohradska Prague 13000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist information) |
It is estimated that over a million people are buried here although the actual number of graves is far less. It was originally created for the victims of the 1680 plague and, whilst many well-known people are laid to rest here, perhaps the most famous is Jan Palach the young Czech student who set himself alight in protest at the Soviet occupation in 1969. However, because the grave became the focal point for the dissident movement, the secret police removed his remains in 1973 and, it is thought the actual body lies in his hometown of Vsetaty, although his headstone remains here. There are maps available indicating various plots. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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To the tower |
Ujezd Prague 11800 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Prague Tourist Information Centre) |
The charming Victorian Funicular is one of Prague's most popular sights. It offers a slow, but enjoyable trip to the top of Petrin Hill where there are splendid panoramic views of the city, a replica Eiffel Tower, and a strange Mirror Maze. The funicular, tower and maze date from an exhibition in 1891. Although the small train was out of service for two decades, it was beautifully restored and reopened in 1985. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Panoramic view of Prague |
Mala Strana Prague 15000 Czech Republic +420 (0)2 171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
Opposite the castle above the Vltava River stands Petrin Hill which features a replica of Paris's Eiffel Tower. Built in 1891 in honor of the Land Jubilee Exhibition, the tower is 63 meters high with 299 steps. It is open to the public and offers a panoramic view of Prague. Surrounding the tower are gardens and several small churches including a wooden one, the logs for which were brought in from the Ukraine in 1929. There is also the Mirror Maze, a series of convex and concave mirrors built for the exhibition of 1891. To get to the tower from Prague itself, there is a funicular railway running every 15 minutes from near Ujezd, just across the river from the National Theatre (metro tickets are valid on this railway). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Works by major artists |
Jirské námestí 33 Prague Castle Prague 11908 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 http://old.hrad.cz/castle/obra... |
This gallery is situated in the third courtyard of the magnificient Prague Castle. The artists elegantly represented here include the likes of Rubens, Tintoretto and Veronese. Most of the paintings date back to the time of Emperor Rudolf II. His Prague court were particularly partial to scenes of gods, nymphs and satyrs cavorting in classical landscapes. Even the Mannerist religious paintings of the time are bathed in sensuality. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Waxing and waning reputations |
Narodni trida 25 Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2108 5217 |
Some of the backdrops here are as entertaining as the wax figures themselves: Franz Kafka stands beside convincing reconstructions of a shop and inn of his time; Emperor Rudolf II and his court alchemist - the Englishman Edward Kelley - stand watching an experiment in Kelley's dim laboratory. There are many figures from Czech history here, from Austrian emperors to the first Czech Communist President Klement Gottwald as well as cultural figures such as Antonin Dvorak, movie director Milos Forman and playwright-turned-president Vaclav Havel. The only thing that seems to be lacking is information which puts the characters in the context of their time. A short multimedia projection entitled 'Love through Seven Centuries' explores the romantic nature of Prague. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A palace museum |
Jirské Námestí 33 Royal Garden, Prague Castle Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 / +420 2 2437 2434 / +420 2 2437 2435 http://www.hrad.cz/en/prazsky_... |
This exquisite sixteenth-century pavilion is known by several names—the Royal Summer Palace, Queen Anne's Summer Palace ("Letohrádek královny Anny"), and Belvedere. A renaissance-era building dating from somewhere between 1548 and 1560, it was built for Anne by Ferdinand I (he commissioned the Genoese architect Paolo della Stella for the project). It is located at the far end of the Royal Gardens to the north of the Prague Castle, and is now an art gallery and exhibition centre. Nearby is the Singing Fountain (Zpivijici fontana), so named because of the melodious sound of water cascading into the fountain's metal bowls. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Used for concerts |
Jirské námestí 33 Second Courtyard, Prague Castle Prague 11908 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 http://www.hrad.cz/en/prazsky_... |
Elegantly done out in white and gilt and dating back to the eighteenth century, this spacious hall is used for occasional concerts throughout the year as well as during the May-June Prague Spring Festival. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Great views over the city |
Spartakiad Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
Within a short walk of the Strahov Monastery, lies the Spartakiad stadium where the Communists used to hold their huge youth displays featuring gymnastics and marching. Reputed at one time to have been the largest stadium in the world holding some 250,000 people, it is now best know for the large outdoor concerts, such as The Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd performing there. Overgrown and rutted, it is also used as a location for agricultural trade fairs and exhibitions. Nearby is the Stadion Evzena Rosickeho, which used to be the national soccer stadium and across the road is a small athletics track where many of the leading Czech athletes train today. Try one of several bars in the complex, where the walls are covered with photographs and souvenirs of great players and matches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Music up at the castle |
Jirské námestí 33 Prazsky Hrad Prague 11908 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 http://hrad.cz/en/prazsky_hrad... |
In Prague, one is able to listen to baroque music played in baroque churches. The music here is also baroque, with lashings of 'The Four Seasons' and Bach concertos, plus a little Mozart. This Romanesque church is probably one of the most well-preserved examples of its kind in the country. As most concerts start at 5:30 p, you could take a stroll through the castle afterwards, when most of the tourists have already left. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Panoramic views of Prague |
Mahlerovy Sady 1 Prague 13000 Czech Republic +420 242 418 778 http://www.tower.cz/ |
Completed in 1992, the tower reaches a height of 474 metres, although viewing and other facilities are at 100 metres. It provides a panoramic view of Prague with visibility estimated at 100 kilometres. Lifts take visitors to the viewing areas at 4 metres per second and entry to these areas costs 60 Kcs per person. The air-conditioned cabins house a restaurant offering Czech and international cuisine, all of which are open from 10a until 11p daily. The tower is within a 30 minute walk of Wenceslas Square. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Small exhibition space |
Jirské námestí 33 Prague Castle Prague 11908 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 (Castle information) http://www.hrad.cz/en/prazsky_... |
This part of the palace, overlooking the South Gardens, is only used for exhibitions. It's a needle-thin slice of masonry separated from the older parts of the palace by airshafts. It bears twentieth-century modifications by the architect Otto Rothmayer. The tiny, rather confined exhibition space is perfect for displays of small objects, books, maps, etc. From April to October, this wing is accessible from the garden. At other times, it is accessible via the Third Courtyard, beside the cathedral. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Place of remembrance |
Principova alej 304 Prague 41155 Czech Republic +420 416 78 2225 / 420 416 78 2442 http://www.pruvodce.com/terezi... |
The Terezin memorial, located at a one-hour drive north of Prague, is split into two parts—a museum and an exhibition space. The museum is in the town of Terezin, about 15 minutes' walk from the Small Fortress, or prison. The museum details the sufferings and the cultural activities of the 140,000 Jews who were deported here between 1941 and 1945. Nearby one of the barracks and other structures where Jews lived and worked has been converted into an exhibition space. Most visitors head for the 18th-century Small Fortress, which the Nazis utilized as a prison for Jews and non-Jews alike. Earlier in the century, Gavrilo Princip, the assassin of Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, was incarcerated here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hosts temporary art exhibitions |
U Prašného mostu 55 Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 2 2437 3368 (Castle information) http://www.hrad.cz/en/prazsky_... |
Horses no longer canter here—instead, the National Gallery and Prague Castle house large temporary exhibitions. The building lies just across a bridge from the main castle complex. Crucially, it also boasts one of the few public WCs in the area! The baroque facade of the building gives it a resplendent look and make this place worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historic Theatre |
Zenklova 34 Prague, Praha Czech Republic |
The classic Theatre Pod Palmonkou features a grand crystal chandelier and careful tile work. This is a popular site to see concerts and theater. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Havel family cemetery |
Vinohradska Prague 12000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 |
Past the Olsanske hrbitovy, just beyond the Zelivskeho metro, is the cemetery where the family tomb of President Havel lies. Some of the tombs have marble statues and religious mosaics and many display engraved photographs of the deceased with family notes. Amongst other well-known Czechs buried here, are the poet Neumann and the theatre director Karel Hynek Hilar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Military cemetery and war memorial |
Jana Zelivskeho Prague 13000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 |
Immediately to the east and across the main road (Jana Zelivskeho) from the Olsany cemetery, lies this military cemetery which honours the Czech war dead from World War I in a semi-circular arrangement of graves. There is also a monument dedicated to the 436 Soviet troops who lost their lives during the liberation of Prague from the Nazis in May 1945. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Seat of Czech nobility |
V Pevnosti 159/5b Prague 12800 Czech Republic +420 2 4141 0348 / +420 2 4141 0247 http://www.praha-vysehrad.cz/f... |
This fortress was established in the mid-10th century and was the oldest seat of the Czech nobility. Charles IV built a system of walls linking Vysehrad with Nove Mesto but over the years, most of these were gradually destroyed. Upon arriving at Vysehrad, visitors can stroll around the ramparts enjoying excellent views of the Vltava River. Visit the Gothic Church of St Peter and Paul, the Romanesque Rotunda, the underground casemates, the small museum, and the Vysehrad Cemetery, where both Smetana and Dvorak are buried. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Located within Vysehrad Castle |
Sobeslavova 1 Prague 12800 Czech Republic +420 2 4141 0348 / +420 2 4141 0247 http://www.praha-vysehrad.cz/ |
The cemetery has been the resting place of many Czech composers, artists, sculptors, writers and intellectuals since 1869. Visitors will find a map outside showing the precise location of the graves of the more famous individuals' including Antonin Dvorak, Bedrich Smetana and Josef Vaclav Myslbek. The grave of the Romantic poet Karel Hynek Macha was the assembly point in November 1989 for the officially sanctioned demonstration that led to over 50,000 people attempting to march on Wenceslas Square before being stopped in Narodni. The centrepiece of the cemetery is the Slavin Monument designed by Antonin Wiehl - the communal resting place of over 50 Czech artists and sculptors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The heart of Prague |
Václavské námestí 68 Prague 11000 Czech Republic +420 (0)2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
Prague's main thoroughfare is more of a sloping boulevard than a square, with a central concourse flanked by two roadways. The hub of cultural, social and business activity with its many shops, hotels, bars and restaurants, it is busy both day and night. The square has long been the center of protest—from a large outdoor mass demonstration in 1848 to the declaration of the first Republic in 1918, not forgetting the anti-communist protests of 1968 and the Velvet Revolution gatherings of 1989. It came into being in 1348 as part of the New Town and was originally used (and known) as the Horse Market until 1848 when it was finally given its present name. The square is dominated by the National Museum at the top end, just below which is the Wenceslas Monument. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Overlooking the city |
Zizkov Prague, Prague 13000 Czech Republic +420 2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre) |
This huge edifice (built between 1929 and 1932 to commemorate the victory of General Jan Zizka and the Hussites in 1420 over the papal forces) stretches awkwardly along a long, narrow hill in Zizkov. The large statue of General Zizka fronting the building was erected in 1950. The monument became a symbol of the independent republic although it was used by the Nazis as an arsenal and later by the Communists as a mausoleum where the three Communist presidents are buried. It is also the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier where wreath-laying ceremonies take place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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