The Ancient
My destination, Prague has one interesting and diverse history. Right away I can see why it’s sometimes referred to as the city of a hundred spires. Spearing the sky like golden daggers there are actually some five hundred. Towering over the city are those of St Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle. A mixture of architectural styles, Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque, the enthralling cluster of buildings that make up the castle complex are like window to a millennium of history. Religion, princes, kings, wars and innovation have all made their mark here. Camera in hand, I meander along the sloping cobbles of Golden lane, the buildings so quaint and brightly coloured I feel like I’m on a movie set.
Heading back into the old town I am blown away by its well preserved beauty. The town square is so picturesque I could fill my entire flashcard and the view from Charles Bridge takes my breath away. I stand outside the old town hall, mesmerised by the spectacular engineering of the Astronomical clock. I could spend my whole trip in this area alone, but there’s far more to discover.
The Modern
Ok, so when I say modern, in Prague terms we’re still talking about area’s that other cities would call absolutely ancient. First laid out some six hundred years ago, the wide boulevard of Wenceslas Square is the bustling hub at the centre of the new town and business district. Dominated at the end of the sweeping uphill-street by the elegant neoclassical National Museum, this tree lined boulevard is no less stunning than its elderly counterparts just a few minutes away. The central pedestrian area is sculptured with shrubs, seats and concrete. And for a girl who loves to shop? Well this is the place to be. The classical structures and monuments mesh easily with the neon of stores and Prague Restaurants. The National Theatre and the State Opera House are just around the corner and the nightlife in here rivals any great city the world over.
I wonder away from the grand square to find another architectural delight I’ve heard about; the Ginger and Fred Building. Glinting in the fading sunlight the twisted glass tube dips into the white facade like its dancing namesakes turning on the dance floor. I can see why it’s so well photographed.
The Soul
Since the first Celtic settlers around 200BC Prague has been through so much history that I could chat all night. Much of the city we see today stems from the fourteenth century reign of Bohemian King Charles IV right through to the aftermath of the Nazi occupation. The heartbeat of every town however, comes from the people themselves, and it’s impossible to visit Prague and fail to feel the two faiths that have lived here for more than a thousand years. Christianity is evident everywhere with the spectacular churches and cathedrals that are scattered throughout. Many, especially St Vitus and St Nicholas in the old town, shouldn’t be missed. The Jewish Quarter’s turbulent past is another must do experience. The Jewish Museum runs most of the sites, though the Old-New Synagogue is a separate ticket. But the most spectacular is The Spanish, reputedly the most beautiful in Europe. Prague truly is Europe’s golden centre.
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About the Author: Liah S Thorley is a travel writer and novelist from the UK. She has travelled extensively and particularly enjoys history and the arts.
