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The Best Architecture in Prague

2012-12-18T11:42:00.001Z

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic is known for many things, not the least of which is some absolutely stellar architecture. Some of the buildings in Prague have to be seen to be believed. The cultural and historical significance of some buildings stands them alongside some of the most important landmarks in all of Europe. The fact that Prague was almost entirely spared any damage during the wars of the 20th century means that most of the medieval history of the city remains perfectly intact. Here are some must see structures in Prague. Prague is an expansive city and the best way to see it is by car. Check out car rental options when you book your trip to Prague.

The Hradcany

Not one but a series of the most famous landmarks in Prague, this royal facility is home to Prague Castle, St Vitus Cathedral, The Renaissance Archbishop’s Palace, The Basilica of St George as well as many other interesting structures. The four aforementioned buildings alone make this a must visit. Prague Castle is still an operational judicial building and houses the Czech Presidential offices as well as the Czech crown jewels. Construction on the castle began in the 9th century when the dispersed tribes of the Czech region were united by the Premyslid family. Within the fortress that housed the castle, the basilica and cathedral were also built at the same time. The original cathedral has since been destroyed and replaced by the current, a gothic masterpiece that has to be seen to be believed. For architecture buffs this entire complex is one of the most amazing things to see in the entire world.

Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge was built in the 14th century and was commissioned by King Charles IV and built by his favourite architect Peter Parler. It is a majestic old style bridge that connects the new city with the old and is the main pedestrian route between the two. Initially conceived as a functional structure for knight tournaments the original bridge had minimal decorations but over time the Catholics saw fit to adorn the bridge in numerous statues and decorations most of which remain today as copies due to flood destroying many of the originals over time. Pedestrians enjoy an amazing view of the Prague skyline from the bridge.

Czech Museum of Music

The former baroque church, St Mary Magdalene, built in the 17th century is now the home of the Czech Museum of Music. Undergoing a huge facelift a few years ago this building now features a clash of modern and baroque styles. The assembly hall of this tremendous building is a cavernous miracle of architecture. It too has been refurbished and remade to bring to life every corner of this vast and awe inspiring room.

Dancing House

The Dancing House is one of the most unique buildings in the world. With it’s audacious curved structure nestled alongside the more historic architecture it stands as a stark contrast. Built by architects Vlado Milunc and the American Frank O’Gehry this building was initially nicknamed “Fred and Ginger or The Astaire and Rogers Building” after the famed dancers. It was constructed between 1992 and 1996. The only accessible part for tourists is the top floor which houses one of the finest restaurants in Prague.

This post was written and supplied by one of the guys from Skedaddle Car Hire, if you’d like to know more about visiting some fantastic locations by car, check them out.

5 Reasons to visit Prague

2012-09-07T17:35:00.003+01:00

Prague is considered to be one of the most romantic cities in the world, perhaps due to its old world charm and stunning castles. Tucked away in the middle of Europe, this Czech country has something to offer to everyone, both young and old. Let's have a look at five reasons to visit this charming European city.

1. Prague Golf Courses

There are more than 90 golf courses that dot the Prague countryside. If you want to try something different, pack your golf clubs and head on down to one of the numerous courses that are open for residents and tourists alike. Surrounded by gorgeous vistas, you'll never miss an opportunity to practice your handicap and improve on it while on holiday in Prague.

2. The Old Town Square

This is situated in the middle of the city featuring a beautiful astronomic clock atop the Old Town Hall. This region is dotted with little restaurants and food vendors who sell delicacies by the weight. It is a fabulous place to sit and watch the world go by, while savoring your Czech beer.

3. The Lobkowicz Palace

This gorgeous homage to history is not to be missed. The tour includes a narrated introduction into the history of the castle, given by the family that owns the castle. The collection of fine art contained in the castle is bound to surprise and delight even the seasoned art savant. This is one place in Prague that will leave you with a sense of legacy, magic and wonderment.

4. The State Opera

It offers unbeatable entertainment for a great, tourist-friendly price. You don't have to book in advance; tickets are readily available upon your arrival to the opera. With classics such as The Sleeping Beauty, accompanied with the music of Tchaikovsky, this is the place to be if you are into opera and classic ballet, infused with a modern twist. Official State opera site state-opera.com/

5. Amade Restaurant

Amade Restaurant is a veritable tour de force when it comes to fine and family dining. With a stunning view of the Prague Castle and overlooking the river, this restaurant exemplifies the charming spirit of Prague. The menu is as varied as is the service excellent. Prague should be on the top of your list as one of those unforgettable European cities to visit in your journeys across our beautiful planet.

Brewery Tours in Prague

2012-04-25T14:13:00.003+01:00

If you are staying in Prague then apart from the usual historical sites that can be seen throughout the city, there is also the opportunity to visit one of Czech Republic’s most famous brewery’s. Not only will a day trip to the famous Pilsner Urquell brewery include a guided tour but also gives you the chance to explore the famous Koneprusy Caves.

The production of beer in the area of Pilsen has been happening since the 13th century and in the 1840’s Pilsner Urquell became the first producer of a golden ‘lager’ in the world after developing a new method of fermentation and storing its beers. Beers today are now mostly based on this pilsner style, with the brewery being a fascinating monument to the history of beer from around the world.

Tours of the Pilsner Urquell brewery will include a documentary that highlights the development and evolution of beer production and a trip to the museum that showcases equipment used over the centuries for brewing beer. Form here you will be shown the modern plant that is used for the production of beer nowadays, with information teaching you about how modern science and techniques have totally transformed production of beer. From there you can see the maltose and witness how beer barrels are made in the traditional way, and then you have the opportunity to taste some freshly brewed beer.

The Koneprusy Caves are an impressive system of caves that make up the biggest in the country. In there you will witness some awesome stalactites as well as the unique rocks that are opal bearing. These cave’s have been heavily excavated over the past several years and the information has been used to help map one and a half million years worth of Earth’s history.

Pilsner Beer

Interested also in skiing whilst in Czech? Also learn about some of the best family attractions in Prague worth visiting. A fan pf Czech beer? Find information on the best pubs in Prague for a quiet drink.

What to see in Prague

2012-01-16T19:48:00.003Z

If you have booked a trip to Prague or are still considering whether to visit the city, this video by Rick Steves is worth watching. It should give you an idea of the look of the city and the types of attractions and sites you can expect to see.

Prague is a city steeped in culture and history lovers will certainly appreciate what the city has to offer. If you are youthful and are more interested in bars or restaurants then you will also love Prague. Prague has something for everyone. Staying in the Nove Mesto area of Prague?

Christmas Markets in Prague

2011-12-13T15:44:00.002Z

Religion plays a significant part in the culture of Prague, making Christmas one of the most exciting times of year to visit the city. Amongst the most prominent of seasonal features are the Christmas markets which can be found around the city as they pull tourists and locals together to enjoy the festivities at this magical time of year.

During December the city centre is transformed into something of a giant winter wonderland, with the lights from the Christmas markets brightening up the entire area. Many of the streets are lined with stalls selling products ranging from locally made seasonal gifts to generic items which have been sourced from elsewhere in the world. The Bohemian crystals, wooden toys and homemade jewellery on sale here make for great stocking fillers and are easy to carry home. Local cuisine is also a prominent feature with many stalls selling things such corn on the cob, sausages and pastries, all of which are suitably complimented by hot drinks, including the traditional Czech hot wine. The buzz around the markets is instantly contagious and fills one with seasonal cheer.

Some of the best Christmas markets to visit in Prague are those in Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square, although it is also well worth a visit to those held at Havel’s market and Republic Square. This being said, the city as a whole has sporadic stalls on street corners and can almost be considered one big market. Read about more Christmas markets in Europe. In need of accommodatiom. Holiday-velvet.com are one company who provide a range of Prague rooms for stays in the Czech capitral for tourists to the city for short term stays.

The Czech Museum of Music

2011-11-15T14:27:00.002Z

Prague has a long association with music, which makes it fitting that the Czech Museum of Music is located here. This is a truly fantastic museum which is a must visit attraction for everybody who visits the city, regardless of their levels of interest in music.

There are various reasons to visit the Czech Museum of Music, with the first being the fabulous building in which the museum is located. This is a 17th century Baroque church which, despite undergoing major renovation to allow it to home the museum most effectively, the building still has all of its charm from the outside and contains an intriguing mix of old and new design features on the inside.

The main attraction of visiting the museum is of course to see the various artefacts from the history of Czech music. In total there are a staggering 700,000 items to explore which take you on a fascinating journey through the evolution of music over the years, with the library of notation being particularly extensive. The museum in Prague also has a vast recordings library as well as collections of instruments from some of the most famous composers and musicians from Czech music history.

On occasion the museum hosts live music events, and the opportunity to combine such an event with a browse at the historical artefacts provides a truly comprehensive music experience. Find flights to Prague from across Europe.

Visiting Prague Castle

2011-10-11T19:37:00.004+01:00

Of all the exciting attractions to experience when visiting Prague, the castle is one which you should be sure not to miss. The castle is an absolutely colossal structure and is one of the key institutions in the entire country, mainly because of its history and the role it has played in making the Czech Republic the country it is today.

At 500 metres long Prague Castle is widely regarded to be the largest castle in the world, and this sheer size on its own is enough to fascinate you for hours, as this is around how long it takes for your brain to comprehend the scale of the place, the effort that must have gone into creating, maintaining and defending it and events that have taken place here over the years. One of the most intriguing aspects of the castle is the different architectural styles which combine to create the overall structure, which is a result of the various modifications over the years, with one of the most significant being in the early twentieth century.

Prague Castle is open every day of the year during office hours, with the many visitor attractions on site including the gardens, the state rooms and the changing of the guards. A visit here is reminiscent of visiting Buckingham Palace in London or the Whitehouse in Washington with regards to the atmosphere and character of the place, and is truly a superb experience.

The Best Prague Threatre's

2011-08-16T16:31:00.003+01:00

Theatre has been a large part of the culture in Prague over the years, and below are some of the best theatres to enjoy performances in the city.

Prague National Theatre

This is the largest and arguably the grandest theatre in Prague which has a classical feel to it which is well suited to the high brow performances which are held here, performed by organisations from around the world, including the national opera. The design characteristics alone make it worth a visit here.

Metro Theatre

This is one of the institutions which are referred to as black theatres. This name is a reflection of the nature of performances here which are carried out to a black background and use a mixture of colours and movements to thrill the crowds with a truly modern yet very Prague experience.

Laterna Magika

Puppetry has long been a celebrated art in Prague, and this theatre is dedicated to performances from people and organisations of all standards, whilst all are highly enjoyable and a must visit for those with kids. This is the original puppet theatre in Prague and is still going strong, with a reputation for top quality puppet costumes and highly engaging shows.

Estates Theatre

This is one of the most celebrated theatres in Europe which has a genuinely top draw history with many people such as Mozart having performed here over the years. There is a special feel to this place which is hard to recapture elsewhere.

Discovering Modern Prague

2011-07-11T03:14:00.002+01:00

In a tourism context, the destination Prague is often thought of as a place to visit to enjoy the historical and cultural qualities. Despite this perception that Prague has a wealth of ancient heritage and attractions, there are in fact many modern attractions in the city, and below are some of the best.

Dancing House

This is an intriguing piece of modern architecture which was built during the 90’s in the place of the previous building which had been damaged during the bombing of Prague.
The wobbly design of the building really stands out amongst the historical architecture and can be enjoyed from the top floor restaurant.

Prague Zoo

This attraction was open during the early 20^th century and has evolved significantly since that time. Prague zoo is vast in size, approximately 111 acres, and is home to around a stunning 650 different species. It is regarded by some as one of the best zoos in the world.

Nový Smíchov

There are a host of fashionable and modern shopping areas in Prague, with one such example being the Nový Smíchov. This is a state of the art three storey shopping complex which also has a number of modern entertainment facilities.

Podoli Swimming Pool Complex

This is a swimmers paradise and is the largest complex of its type in the city. There is an Olympic size pool as well as a number of other pools suitable for different people, including people. All pools are outside which allows one to enjoy the often glorious weather.

Attractions for Classical Music Lovers in Prague

2011-05-10T16:32:00.003+01:00

There are attractions in Prague to suit people of all tastes. Those who have an interest in classical music will be pleased to hear that spread around Prague are buildings and museums which have more than a slight association with classical music. Below are some of the places you might like to visit.

Czech Museum of Music - Generally, the sort of person who enjoys classical music will also appreciate fine architecture, so the fact that this museum is located in a 17th century baroque church creates an all around attraction. The museum boasts around 700,000 items which document the history of music and allow the music lover to appreciate the standard that we enjoy today.

Estates Theatre - This is considered to be one of the best historical theatres in the world. Some of the most famous pieces of music have been played here, and perhaps most significantly, Mozart himself once composed here. You can either take in a show here or just take in the atmosphere.

Lobkowicz Palace at Prague Castle - This is a glorious restaurant which is home to a range of historical and instruments which will be of huge interest to the classical music lover. Once you have discovered all of the musical artefacts you can move on to explore the wide range of paintings and decorative arts which are also held here. The glorious location in Prague Castle completes the experience.

Skiing in the Czech Republic

2011-04-07T21:05:00.001+01:00

Along with beach holidays, city breaks and camping, skiing is one of the most popular holidays for people around the world. There are a number of locations around the world which enjoy healthy visitor numbers during the peak season, and many of these are cliché locations where hoards of people visit each year.
These countries include Italy, France, Canada, Switzerland and the USA. One of the more neglected, but no less quality locations is the Czech Republic. It is not widely known that there are over one hundred areas in the Czech Republic where there is enough snow to support a sustained season of skiing.

When it comes to skiing in the Czech Republic one of the best features is that the slopes are generally not as busy as in better known resorts, which means that there is more room for you to manoeuvre. A large number of these resorts are equipped with the modern facilities which you would expect to find at a ski resort, although there are still plenty with more retro facilities which certainly add a different edge to the experience. There are resorts which are suitable for skiers of all levels, from the novice to the professional, who can take advantage of the world class resources at Spindleruv Mlyn.

For those who enjoy skiing but also like to be within close proximity to a city, there are a number of resorts which are not too far away from Prague, the nation’s capital.

Ski Insurance for Czech

If heading to Prague for skiing, make sure you take our a European ski insurance policy and alsowhy not take advantage of your free EHIC card if you are European?

Skiing on Medvedin

Try These Czech Delicacies

2011-03-09T20:52:00.004Z

Prague is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Eastern Europe. It is popular for people who enjoy culture as well as with those who seek a romantic setting for a break with a loved one. Below are some of the Czech delicacies which can be sampled by tourists on their visit to Prague:

Gypsy Sauce: The bizarre composition of this sauce makes it an ideal accompaniment for a whole range of different foods. It has a somewhat sweet taste whilst retaining the spicy edge which its ingredients would suggest. Full of peppers, onions and tomatoes, this sauce is guaranteed to awaken your taste buds.

Piskoty: These soft sweets will be a nice addition to your day time walk. They are extremely sweet and have the consistency of a biscuit. There is a large variety of these sweets, so perhaps you could sample a different one each day.

Game: The Czech population adores a good bit of game. The charismatic aroma which comes as a result of the bird’s diet is accompanied nicely by a variety of different sauces. It is the way in which this bird is cooked which provides its different taste and makes it a must taste delicacy.

Fidorka Dark Chocolate: This chocolate is the Czech answer to the luxury offerings of their European counterparts. Ideal after any meal or as a romantic gesture.

Parks and Gardens to Visit in Prague

2011-02-08T16:43:00.004Z

Prague boasts a range of beautiful parks and gardens which provide the perfect setting for an escape from the concrete jungle in the middle of the city. The parks and gardens are varying in size but each have features which ensure that they really cannot be missed. Below are some of the parks which you should visit in Prague:

Franciscan Garden - Located between a number of busy streets and attractions, it is well worth taking a stroll through this garden oasis on the way to your next point of interest. One of the best features of the garden is that it is situated right next to the church of the Virgin Mary which affords you a gorgeous view of it. With plenty of benches and bushes, the garden provides a peaceful setting for a quick rest.

Vrtba Garden - Boasting a number of statues of roman gods and goddesses, this garden has a distinct baroque feel to it and is regarded by many as one of the most beautiful in Prague. The hoards of flowers which are carefully crafted onto the slopes in amongst the distinguished steps are enough to calm anyone’s mood.

Havlíčkovy Sady - This park is located just outside of central Prague and provides a welcome get away from the conventional tourist activity. Havlíčkovy Sady is the second largest park in Prague and the main attractions include glorious buildings and a vineyard. The sweeping views of the city can be enjoyed from the park whilst sampling some of the local wine produce. Why not also consider skiing whilst in Czech?

Prague’s Top 3 Luxury Hotels

2011-01-27T18:10:00.004Z

Since Prague is a luxury traveller’s paradise, you will find no dearth of luxury hotels in Prague. You can read several reviews of luxury hotels in Prague, check for availability of rooms and even do the booking online. I have stayed in five luxury hotels in Prague and would recommend the following three. All these three hotels have great concierge services that can help you acquire event tickets and organise tours for you.

1. Hotel Riverside - Hotel Riverside, which is located close to the city’s commercial centre and the River Vltava, features amazing Belle Epoque interiors, comfortable suites, modern facilities and lavish furnishing. Most of the hotel’s rooms overlook the picturesque turrets and towers of Prague. The rooms are equipped with free Internet, mini bar, bathrooms with heated floors and much more. Hotel Riverside is close to Prague’s architectural gems such as Charles Bridge and the National Theatre.

2. Hotel President - Hotel President, a five-star luxury hotel, is located right in Prague’s commercial centre and offers luxury travellers a wide choice of 130 tastefully furnished rooms, which includes a presidential suite, three senior suites and 32 junior suites well-equipped with all the facilities that you could desire. If you choose to book a stay at the Hotel President, you will enjoy a spectacular view of the entire city. In fact, this luxury hotel is set in such a location that its guests can view and admire all the attractive sites without having to leave the luxurious comforts of their rooms.

3. Kempinski Hybernska - The Kempinski is a recently renovated seventeenth-century residential palace with elegant interiors and modern architectural designs. The hotel has 75 luxurious, comfortable and spacious rooms. One of the most attractive features of the hotel is its private baroque garden, which sprawls over an area of 1800 square metres, giving its guests the chance to enjoy peace and privacy.

Prague Cafe Culture

2010-11-12T12:21:00.004Z

Prague has historically been a city of thinkers and artists and it's strong cafe culture has grown from this. Inspiration, often shaping the politics and culture of the country as been achieved over a cafe latte or expresso. From small side-street cafes that are warm and intimate to grand Art-Nouveau spaces dressed to impress, Prague has it all. Below are some of my favourites.

Meduza, Belgicka 17, Prague 2

Meduza is one of those places that feels intimate even when every seat is occupied. It's an eclectic mix of vintage furniture and prints, photos, and paintings, including exhibitions of contemporary art and photography. The atmosphere is cool and the staff are helpful. For an introduction to Meduza, go to www.meduza.cz.

Souterrain, Belehradska 82, Prague 2

Cool underground cafe/tearoom offering a bhuge list of teas, along with coffee and alcoholic beverages. The clientele is friendly and you'll get entertained by some of the Czech Republic’s wildest bar musicians. Souterrain’s drink list and schedule of upcoming events, as well as photographs from past events is available at www.souterrain.cz.

The Globe, Pstrossova 6, Prague 1

The Globe Bookstore and Cafe is the cornerstone of the expat cafe scene. You'll find a great selection of English-language books, magazines and papers, cheap Internet, a delicious assortment of inventive and healthy meals, and plenty of readings, lectures, and concerts. Find out more about the Globe at www.globebookstore.cz. (Note: the Globe cafe will be closed due to renovations until December 21, but the bookstore will remain open during this period).

Cafe Slavia, Narodni 1, Prague 1

Decent coffee and food and as a lively mix of crowd make up this cafe. The views are wonderful, whether along Narodni or facing the Vltava. This was also a popular hangout fir dissidents during the socialist regime so it's heavy with atmosphere. Menu, drink list, photo gallery and more can be seen at www.cafeslavia.cz.

Prague’s Christmas Markets

2010-10-12T15:42:00.002+01:00

Prague at Christmas time attracts several tourists from all over the world who flock to its Christmas markets, to shop, sightsee, listen to carols and taste the exquisite wine and cuisine of the region. Last year, I decided to take a family holiday in Prague and celebrate Christmas there. We particularly enjoyed visiting the brightly lit Christmas markets, and despite the milling crowds of local people and tourists, we had the time of our lives.

A trip to the Prague Christmas markets will make you feel like you are at the North Pole visiting Santa Claus’ village. These markets are often described as magical and contribute to the Christmas spirit of fun and sharing in the most unique manner. The city literally dazzles with millions of brilliant Christmas lights and we felt as if we had stepped into a fairyland of lights and snow.

If you are interested in experiencing the Prague Christmas markets, you will naturally have to visit December. The larger markets are located at the Wenceslas Square and the Old Town square and when you are done with them, you can check out the smaller markets at Namesti Republiky and Havelske Trziste. You can easily walk from one market to the other.

We were simply thrilled with the beautifully adorned wooden huts, where Czech local products, beer, hot wine and traditional Czech food items were sold. The Prague Christmas markets are loaded with wooden toys, hand-made jewellery, scented candles, scarves, Christmas tree decorations, hats, ceramic products and loads of Christmas cakes, pies, tarts, sweets, candies and other delicious goodies. We took the children to the Old Town Square where they got to play with goats and sheep and enjoyed the delightful nativity scene.

The most impressive feature of Prague at Christmas time is the large Christmas tree in Old Town Square, adorned with colourful lights. We soon realised that the Prague Christmas markets offered not just shopping, but entertainment galore; as you wander from stall to stall sipping hot wine and tasting delicious snacks, choirs from home and abroad will sing and dance for you.

Boat tours in Prague

2010-09-19T14:07:00.003+01:00

A river cruise on Vltava is one of the best ways to sightsee the region, and tourists will be able to choose from an assortment of cruise tours, depending on what they want to see and where they wish to go. A boat tour will allow you to view popular attractions and see the heart of the city from the deck of a boat; some boat tours also include dinner or lunch as part of the trip.

If you would like to have an evening tour, opt for a Prague Dinner River Cruise tour, where you will be able to enjoy a relaxing cruise experience complete with dinner and live music, while guides point out the attractions on the river banks and explain their significance to you. Most dinner cruise tours take as long as two to four hours and cost around 1000 czk or more.

For those of you who would prefer sightseeing during the day time, book a lunch cruise tour on the river and enjoy the sights as they go by. Top attractions that you will see along your tour include Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, National Theatre, Rudolfinum Concert Hall, Petřín Hill, the Dancing House and Vyšehrad Castle, in addition to several other places.

This tour costs between 400 and 700 czk depending on which company you book the tour with and if you have decided to have lunch on the boat. The tickets for children cost slightly lesser and usually differ by a value of 100. There is also the option of going on an afternoon cruise tour with high tea as the meal offered on board the boat. Music lovers can take up the jazz cruise tour which will feature a live jazz band aboard the craft playing for you.

Guests will find that the boats themselves are very comfortable and are well maintained, with meals being served below deck.

3 boat trips you must try in Prague

2010-08-10T18:00:00.005+01:00

Prague is slowly becoming a hub for tourists with a number of exceptional activities for visitors and one of the best things to do when you are in the city is to go on a boat trip. There are a number of options for people who want to go on one of these cruises. Choosing a cruise can be a little confusing, however all visitors should try one of these three boat trips when in the city.

Prague-Venice boat cruise - If you have only a little time on your hands, you should try the Prague-Venice boat cruise. This cruise takes tourists along the Vltava River, with some unusual views of the city. Here you can see the Old Town from the eyes of the ancient fishermen. The Prague Venice boat tour is truly unique, with passengers having a chance to travel on a wooden boat that is filled with old-world charm. This tour is guided, with guides speaking several languages including English and German.

Night dinner cruise -The second boat trip to try is the night dinner cruise along the river. On this cruise, you will be provided with a sumptuous meal along with a chance to view the city like never before. The tour lasts for two and a half hours and is one of the most popular tours among visitors to the city. The tour starts from the dock, which is the hub of the city.

Summer lunch and music cruise - The third river cruise that is definitely worth trying is the summer lunch and music cruise. Here you will be able to enjoy some spectacular live performances while touring the city along the river. This is also a two and a half hour cruise along with a buffet lunch and an aperitif. The music that is played includes the harmonica performances by experts.

Interested in travel and boat trips? You might also be interested in:

A cruise down the Han River, Seoul in Korea.
Boat trips around Ibiza

Josefov: Prague’s old Jewish Quarter

2010-06-28T22:50:00.004+01:00

Located very close to the old city, Josefov, or the old Jewish quarter, is well worth a visit. Jews are believed to have settled in Prague from as early as the 10th century, when they were ordered to live in the confines of this once walled area. Today it has been completely absorbed into the fabric of Prague.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Josefov was heavily altered and many of its historic buildings were replaced, although there are still some ancient sites to seek out.

To see them you will have to buy a ticket to the Prague Jewish Museum, perhaps the word’s largest collection of Jewish artefacts in the world. With chilling irony, this was for the most part amassed by the Nazis, who during the occupation of the city, set out to create a ‘museum of an extinct race.’

The most moving site is the old Jewish cemetery, the oldest surviving Jewish graveyard in Europe. Although it fell into disuse in the late 18th century, about 10,000 souls are buried here. Thousands of tombstones blanket the cemetery ground, their crumbling, moss-infested state adding to the melancholic ambiance of the cemetery. In between them are some beautiful funerary mosaics and carved marble tombs.

The Gothic Old-New synagogue in Prague is Europe’s oldest working synagogue (men must over their heads to enter) and has been immortalised in the Golem legend. With high, gabled ceilings and a 15th century wrought iron grill, it has changed little since Josefov’s peak. The beautiful and recently renovated Spanish cemetery bears motif from Iberia’s ancient Moorish culture and often hosts concerts.

Prague’s Hands of Time

2010-05-17T19:25:00.002+01:00

Next to London’s Big Ben, the famous and recognisable clock in Europe would have to be Prague’s medieval Astronomical clock, located on the southern wall of the City Hall.

Known locally as Orloj, its beautiful and intricate clock face is the work of various masters of the art of clock making. It was originally created by Mikuláš, the King’s watchmaker from the Czech city of Kadan, but it was later modernised by in the 16th century by Jan Taborský.

During the Prague Uprising of 1945 the Orloj was heavily damaged by Nazi bombs. Over the next few years a community effort was made it get it working again and it hasn’t stopped since, as legend has it that if it did Prague itself would stop functioning.

The Orloj is a sum of various parts and the astronomical dial is perhaps the most mystical. Most experts consider it to be a primitive form of a planetarium as with its rotating ring of zodiacal signs it displays the current position of the planets. Even more interesting is the background of the Orloj, which is coloured in semicircular shapes of blue, red and black (representing day, night and dusk). On the outer edge, two sets of golden numerals mark the 24-hour timescale as well as antiquated Czech time when the midnight (as we understand it today) took place at sunset.

But the most crowd-pleasing element of the Orloj is the four, strange and macabre figures underneath the clock face. They represent anxieties that the community had in the 15t century; death (represented by a skeleton), paganism (a Turk), vanity and greed (two figures with mirror and money bag respectively). When Orloj strikes the hour, ‘death’ inverts his hourglass, and statuettes of the 12 apostles parade past in a window above.

The Prague Castle: Symbol of the City

2010-05-03T16:59:00.003+01:00

Most European cities have one singular monument that has become its symbol; in Barcelona it is the great and still unfinished church the Sagrada Familia whilst in Paris it’s the Eiffel Tower. In the Czech capital, the omnipresent Prague Castle is seen in almost every image of Prague.
Locals and tour guides like to tell you that the Prague Castle is the largest in the world, and its floor space equals the size of seven football fields. When visiting the site it certainly feels as if it does and it would be best to put away a good part of the day (or more) to view it properly.

Like most historical buildings of importance, the Prague Castle is a hotchpotch of styles. Started in the 9th century, rulers over the centuries have all left their imprint, particularly the Empress Theresa who gave the Gothic forms a more classical facelift. It was greatly remodelled again in the 1920s, making its echoing chambers more liveable and visitor-friendly. Even though Vaclav Havel, the first president of the Czech Republic chose not to live here, he also made improvements, particularly to Gallery of Paintings.

All this means that nearly every architectural style from the last 1000 years in represented in castle. There is the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral with its beautiful stained-glass windows, and the Renaissance Royal Garden with an elegant Games House to name just a few. Inside the complex are a handful of museums including and an amazing Toy Museum and the National Gallery collection of Bohemian Art.

Entry tickets to the castle are valid for two days, and many museums are separate entry fee is required. Even if you don’t want to go into the castle itself, you can wander around the outside and most of the gardens for free, admiring its magnificent splendour from the exterior.

Roma Music takes over Prague

2010-04-12T18:24:00.004+01:00

The richness of Romani—or gypsy— music will be celebrated in Prague this May with the 12th edition of the Khamoro Music Festival.

Romani Music draws on influences from its people’s wide diaspora, which spans Europe and encompasses Arabic, Turkish, Slavic, French and Southern European traditions. The most well-know exponent of Romani music is Spain, with the passionate flamenco sound at the helm (though the feet-tapping rumba from Catalunya was also created by the gitanos) and southern France, through the Gypsy Kings and the legendary gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt.

It is only relatively recently that the joyful Slavic strain of Romani music has gained an audience; any music fan that saw Tony Gatlif’s 1993 film ‘Latcho Drom’ might remember what a revelation it was, as the historic journey of the Roma people from India to Europe was told through their musical heritage.

The Khamoro Music Festival, which will largely take place in smaller venues across the city, will feature musicians from all over Europe and from the many sub-genres of Roma music. !Deladap describe their sound as ‘nu-gypsy’ with a mix of jazz and electronic. At the other end of the spectrum, the duo Nadara hail from a small village in Romania, where they forged their reputation at weddings and traditional fiestas and developed an innovative take on traditional Transylvanian folk music.

Debates, film screenings and talks also form part of the Khamoro Music Festival, making the last week in May a great time to visit Prague for world music fans.

Café Society in Prague

2010-02-23T21:21:00.006Z

Prague is famous for many things, its opera house, its bridges, springtimes and astrological clock. It also has a wonderful café society, from lost-in-time fin de siècle relics to funky new arrivals. Here are three of my favourites.

Café Slavia - One of Prague’s best- loved institutions and renowned as a meeting place for intellectuals and literati since the late 19th century. The décor hasn’t changed much since then, and neither have the house specialties such as crepes, and thick and sinful hot chocolate. Smetanovo nábřeží 1012/2, www.cafeslavia.cz
Kavárna Obecní dům,

The glorious Municipal House Café is a sterling example of secessionist style and is located in the heart of the city’s historical centre. Open from day to night, it is equally as good for a coffee and pastry breakfast or a light lunch of a sandwich or salad. Ask to have a peek at the café’s private games rooms. Náměstí Republiky 5.

Cafe Wow - Café Wow is a one of the new breed of Prague cafes, mixing retro-inspired furniture and bright colors to a young crowd of locals and expats. You could pop in for a cocktail at night, or grab a bite of say tomato and mozzarella salad and pasta during the day. It is also one of the few places in Prague that does a decent brunch. Kozí 5, http://www.cafewow.cz/

You can learn about Prague Ruzyne airport online.

Best way to see Prague in 1 Day

2010-01-27T14:40:00.004Z

Prague is a great city for a number of reasons but one of the key things to me is the fact that it is a capital city, yet still compact and easy to get around. Seeing the city in one day is very possible if you are well organised and there are ways to do this.

I always find that if you are in a city for a very short time, then going on the City Bus Tour (which many main cities have) is one excellent way to see a lot in a short time and which a guide. The best ones I find are the hop on, hop off bus tours. An organised city tour can also be a great way and if the city has a river through the heart of it, as Prague has, a boat trip combined with city tour can be good.

In Prague, companies who offer good tour include Viatour and GoldenTours. They are several companies in fact that you can choose from and often the tours use the same supplier. If you are unsure, then talking to your hotel concierge or to your Prague apartment agent can also sometimes help.

Best Youth Hostels in Prague for travellers

2009-10-05T15:06:00.005+01:00

There are some excellent choices in Prague for accommodation and for all different prices levels and in a variety of areas within Prague. Even the higher-end hotels can be relatively cheap compared to some other European capitals, such as Paris, Rome and London.

One accommodation type which has proven to be very popular for years with backpackers BUT is also now attracting a variety of ages - now that many are being upgraded, are youth hostels. Below 3 of my favourite youth hostels:

Hostel Bridge Youth Hostel (Vašátkova 27) - This is an excellent double, 3 and 4 bedroom rooms and with a location which is very central and close to the historical attractions - is a good find. The rooms are also normally very clean and staff real friendly.

Pension Tara Youth Hostel - another great hostel with excellent cleanliness and cooperative staff. In some hostels on my travels around Europe, the staff can sometimes be rude, rooms unclean and location not great. Pension Tara though ticks all the boxes and is in a great location. Good facilities and not too far from the Hostel Bridge hostel.

Welcome Hostel - is another jewel and as they say, location, location, location. Also though with Internet access, lockers, good facilities, good staff and a decent price this is as good as any in Prague.