The Unmissable Sights of Historic Prague

Prague is a beautiful, enchanting city, with an intriguing history and a wealth of things for the visitor to see and do. With it’s status as a sight of importance for World Heritage and its popularity with tourists, this is a must-see destination in the East of Europe.

This is the Czech Republic’s capital, and you can visit the vast Castle that watches over the city. This may be where the government now sit, but its history stretches back to the lines of Bohemian kings who once ruled from here. Things to look out for around the castle are the stunning cathedral dedicated to Saint Vitus, and the brilliant Crown Jewels. Along the quaint Golden Lane within the castle walls you may spot the home where Kafka once lived. If you time your visit just right you can witness the guards performing their ceremonial changeover.

Perhaps the most famous sight in Prague is the Charles Bridge. If you’re looking for souvenirs this is the best place to start. There are always stands offering a variety of Prague themed items here. There’s usually some form of street entertainment to enjoy, too. This is the hub of all activity in the city, and you will find something going on whenever you pass across it, which you are likely to do since this is the main link between the two side of the river, and the two halves of Prague. The Old Town and Mala Strana face each other across the water. The third section of the city you may wish to visit is the historic Jewish section. There are some beautiful synagogues here- one dating back to the thirteenth century, and many other charming buildings too. The cemetery contains Kafka’s burial place.

If you’re visiting at Christmas, then one thing to look out for is the statue of Saint Wenceslas in the square bearing his name. Otherwise known as the Good King and sung about in carols, he is an important national figure much respected here. Around the square there are many shops, although this is also where many of the historic demonstrations occurred against communist rule, and where any celebratory parades are also likely to pass.

At Christmas there is also the unmissable market held in the old square, where you’ll be able to pick up gifts for just about anyone. This is always a busy place, although the crowds really begin to gather when the clock is about to strike. High on the side of the Town Hall is a magnificent clock created in the fifteenth century. When the hour is rung on the bells, small clockwork figures of Christ and the apostles appear and march around the clock. The statue here represents Jan Hus, a local martyr who was burnt to death for his faith. There is a beautiful church here too, Saint Nicholas’, built in the baroque style in the 18th century. You may be able to attend one of the frequent concerts that are held inside, but even if you miss out on this, the frescoes are worth a look.

In the center of the city is the Kampa museum, where you can see a large collection of art which was built up by the Mládeks. There are some excellent Gutfreund sculptures and Kupka paintings here. For a history of Prague itself, including some interesting displays on medieval times in the city, the museum in the fifteenth century Powder Tower is hugely informative. This used to be the place where supplies of gunpowder were stored.

The famous Don Giovanni was premiered by Mozart in the Grand Estates Theater which is a beautiful building to visit even if you don’t intend to stay for a performance. It was built in the eighteenth century, and displays the elegant style of the age.

Prague even has it’s own version of the Eiffel Tower, and although quite a bit smaller than the real thing, it is perched above the city on one of the surrounding hills, and a climb to the top affords a great view of the area. There are almost three hundred steps to climb, though, to reach the top of the sixty meter tall Petrin Tower.