Hello, I’m Veronica
The sky is not completely dark at night. Were the sky absolutely dark, one would not be able to see the silhouette of an object against the sky.
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St. Vitus Cathedral
(AKA Katedrála Sv. Víta)
St. Vitus Cathedral is an architectural marvel and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting this historic city. It is one of the most prominent and significant religious landmarks in Prague and holds great cultural and historical importance.
The cathedral’s construction began in the 14th century and spanned several centuries, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance. This fusion of styles gives St. Vitus Cathedral its distinctive and breathtaking appearance.
As you approach the cathedral, you’ll be immediately captivated by its towering spires and intricate stone carvings. The exterior is adorned with countless statues, gargoyles, and reliefs, each telling a story and adding to the overall grandeur of the structure.
Upon entering the cathedral, you’ll be awestruck by its vastness and the magnificence of its interior. The soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and meticulously crafted details create an atmosphere of wonder and spirituality. The stained glass windows, in particular, are a sight to behold, casting vibrant colors and bathing the interior in a mesmerizing glow.
One of the highlights of St. Vitus Cathedral is the breathtaking St. Wenceslas Chapel, dedicated to the patron saint of Bohemia. It is adorned with precious materials, including gold and jewels, and features stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Wenceslas. This chapel is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic art in Europe.
Another notable feature of the cathedral is the ornate and intricate St. Vitus Cathedral Treasury, which houses a collection of religious artifacts and precious relics, including the Czech Crown Jewels. The treasury is open to the public only once every eight years.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a place of awe-inspiring beauty, St. Vitus Cathedral is an absolute must-visit destination in Prague. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and spiritual ambiance combine to create an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in the Czech Republic.
Visit Notes
We happened to be visiting on a Sunday, so we had to wait until noon to get into the cathedral and by then all the other tourists were out of bed and standing in line. The line moved quickly though and soon we were in. I felt a bit like cattle on a conveyor belt once inside. The cathedral itself is stunning, but my enjoyment was tempered by the sheer number of bodies around me. The stained glass in the cathedral is extraordinary, so at least while you’re looking at that you can kind of forget about the crowds.
We booked a skip-the-line ticket (similar to this one) with GetYourGuide.com which included entry into several areas of the Prague Castle complex, including the cathedral. It was very easy and convenient. There is a “free” part of the cathedral that you can visit with no ticket. This means you can walk into the cathedral but can’t progress past the turnstiles. You’d be able to get a feel for the place but wouldn’t be able to see most of the cathedral up close. There is more information about this on their website.
Details
III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia
Monday to Saturday
9:00 – 17:00
Sunday
12:00 – 17:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
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Other Sights
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Lesser Town Bridge Tower
(AKA Malostranská mostecká věž)
The Lesser Town Bridge Tower, also known as Malostranská mostecká věž in Czech, is an iconic historical landmark located in the city of Prague, Czech Republic. It is situated at one end of the famous Charles Bridge, which connects the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) with the Old Town (Staré Město).
The tower itself is a magnificent Gothic structure that dates back to the 14th century, making it over 600 years old. It stands tall and proud, serving as a gateway to the enchanting Lesser Town district of Prague. The tower’s architecture is characterized by its intricate details, pointed arches, and decorative elements, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the medieval period.
One of the most notable features of the Lesser Town Bridge Tower is its breathtaking panoramic views of Prague. If you decide to climb to the top of the tower, you will be rewarded with a mesmerizing vista of the Vltava River, the Charles Bridge, and the cityscape. This makes it a perfect spot for photographers, as you can capture the beauty of Prague from a unique vantage point.
As you explore the tower, you’ll also have the opportunity to delve into its history. Inside, you can find a small museum that exhibits artifacts and displays about the construction of the tower, its significance to Prague, and the history of the Charles Bridge. This gives you a deeper understanding of the tower’s importance in the city’s cultural heritage.
Visit Notes
The tower is one of many (many, many) viewpoints in Prague, each offering its own unique view of the city. You know what I hate? Stairs with no risers, forcing you to see how high you are as you climb. You know what’s worse? Stairs built hundreds of years ago that creak and groan and shake with every step. Still, I made it to the top and back down alive, and it was worth it. The views are spectacular and the exhibits on the way up are interesting.
You can buy tickets in advance, but we did this one on a whim as we were walking by. It was summer, so I expected more people, but there was no line and when we got to the top we were alone.
Details
57, Malá Strana, 118 00 Praha, Czechia
9:00 – 21:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
Other Sights
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Old Jewish Cemetery
As you enter the cemetery, you’ll immediately be struck by the atmosphere of age and reverence. The Old Jewish Cemetery is one of the oldest surviving Jewish burial grounds in Europe and is located in the heart of Prague’s Jewish Quarter, known as Josefov. Its origins can be traced back to the 15th century, and it served as the primary burial site for Prague’s Jewish community for over 300 years.
What makes this cemetery truly unique is its compact size. Over the centuries, the space became incredibly overcrowded due to restrictions placed on the Jewish community. As a result, the graves are densely packed, with an estimated 12,000 tombstones and potentially many more burials beneath the surface. The uneven terrain, leaning tombstones, and the sense of layers upon layers of history create an eerie and somber ambiance.
As you wander through the labyrinthine paths, you’ll notice the diverse range of tombstones, each with its own story to tell. The tombstones vary in size, shape, and style, reflecting different periods and artistic influences. Many of them are elaborately decorated with intricate carvings and Hebrew inscriptions, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of the time.
Among the graves, you’ll find the resting places of famous figures from Prague’s Jewish community, including prominent rabbis, scholars, and community leaders. One of the most visited graves belongs to Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel, also known as the Maharal, a revered figure in Jewish mysticism and folklore.
The cemetery also serves as a poignant reminder of the hardships faced by the Jewish community throughout history. It survived numerous episodes of persecution, including the expulsions, pogroms, and the horrors of the Holocaust. Walking through the cemetery, you can’t help but reflect on the lives that were lived and the stories that were lost.
As you explore further, you might come across the Ceremonial Hall, which is part of the Jewish Museum in Prague. The hall houses an exhibition that delves into the rich history and traditions of the Jewish people in Prague. It provides a deeper understanding of the significance of the cemetery and the Jewish Quarter as a whole.
Visiting the Old Jewish Cemetery is not only an opportunity to witness a tangible piece of history but also a chance to pay homage to the lives that came before us. It’s a place of contemplation, a testament to the resilience of the Jewish community, and a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving and learning from our past.
Visit Notes
I know cemeteries are not everyone’s thing, but I happen to love them. This cemetery is particularly historic and worth visiting.
When you arrive your first stop will likely be the Pinkas Synagogue as it sits near the entry. The Synagogue is the second oldest surviving synagogue in Prague and today, serves as a holocaust memorial. On the walls are listed the names of the roughly 80,000 Jewish victims from the Czech lands.
In the cemetery you’ll follow a path through the vast array of tombstones. We took our time, exploring the variety of symbolism etched into the stones. It was raining at the time, so we were alone. It’s not particularly large, so you could get through it pretty quickly if you needed to, or you can take your time, as we did, and really soak it all in.
You can buy tickets to the cemetery or a combo ticket to the Jewish Museum, which includes the cemetery and several other synagogues. Visit the Jewish Museum website for the most current information and pricing.
Details
Široká 3, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
9:00 – 18:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
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The World of Banksy
The Banksy Museum in Prague, Czech Republic is a captivating and unique destination for art enthusiasts and fans of the enigmatic street artist, Banksy. Located in the heart of Prague, this museum offers a comprehensive and immersive experience dedicated to the works and philosophy of Banksy.
As you step into the museum, you’ll immediately be surrounded by an atmosphere that reflects the urban and subversive spirit of Banksy’s art. The museum’s interior is designed to resemble the gritty streets and walls where Banksy’s iconic pieces originated. Graffiti-covered walls, dim lighting, and an edgy ambiance transport visitors into the world of this renowned artist.
The museum showcases an extensive collection of Banksy’s original artworks, ranging from stencils to prints and installations. You’ll have the opportunity to see some of his most famous pieces, such as “Girl with a Balloon,” “Love is in the Air,” and “Rage, Flower Thrower.” Each artwork is thoughtfully presented, providing insights into Banksy’s socio-political commentary, satirical wit, and thought-provoking messages.
What sets this museum apart is its interactive approach to experiencing Banksy’s art. Visitors can engage with various multimedia exhibits, including video installations and audio guides, that delve deeper into the context and meaning behind each artwork. These immersive displays bring the art to life, allowing you to explore the artist’s motivations and the socio-cultural issues he addresses.
The Banksy Museum also emphasizes the importance of the artist’s anonymity and the subversive nature of street art. You’ll have the chance to learn about Banksy’s elusive persona, his tactics for evading authorities, and the controversy surrounding his work. The museum’s curators have carefully curated this information to create a captivating narrative that leaves visitors intrigued and inspired.
After exploring the artwork, you can visit the museum shop, which offers a range of merchandise inspired by Banksy’s iconic designs. From prints and clothing to books and accessories, you’ll find unique and artistic souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Visit Notes
If you enjoy street art, then you’ll like this museum. It showcases over 100 artworks by the enigmatic artist in a former 16th century church. My daughter is the artist in the family and she took her time reading all the exhibits.
The museum was an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours. I appreciated the juxtaposition of the modern art in such a historic setting and I learned quite a bit about the political and social statements behind the art.
Details
Michalská 662/29, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Monday to Wednesday
10:00 -20:00
Thursday to Sunday
10:00 – 21:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
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Astronomical Clock
(AKA Pražský orloj)
The astronomical clock in Prague, Czech Republic is an extraordinary masterpiece of medieval engineering and a renowned symbol of the city’s rich history. Located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town Square, the clock is known as the Prague Astronomical Clock or the Orloj.
The clock was first installed in 1410 on the southern wall of the Old Town City Hall. It consists of three main components: the astronomical dial, the hourly show, and the calendar dial. The astronomical dial is the central feature and displays various astronomical and astrological information, including the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky, the time, the date, and even the current zodiac sign.
The hourly show is one of the most captivating aspects of the astronomical clock. Every hour, when the clock strikes, a procession of apostles appears from two small windows above the astronomical dial. The figures move, representing the passing of time, and various other sculptures come to life, including a skeleton, a Turk, and a vanity figure.
The history and legends surrounding the Prague Astronomical Clock add to its allure. One legend tells the story of Master Hanuš, the clock’s original creator. According to the legend, the city councilors were so impressed with Hanuš’s masterpiece that they feared he might replicate it elsewhere. To prevent this, they blinded him, ensuring that he would never build a clock as magnificent as the Prague Astronomical Clock again. In revenge, Hanuš allegedly damaged the clock’s mechanism, which remained broken for centuries until it was repaired in the 19th century.
Another legend suggests that if the clock were to ever stop, disaster would befall the city. In 1945, during the Prague Uprising near the end of World War II, the Nazis damaged the clock, causing it to stop for a brief period. According to the legend, the halted clock brought bad luck to the Germans and spelled their defeat.
Visiting the Prague Astronomical Clock is a must for anyone traveling to Prague. It not only offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval past but also showcases the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the time. The intricate details and the hourly show are fascinating to observe, and the clock’s rich history and legends add a layer of mystique and wonder. Standing in the Old Town Square, surrounded by the stunning architecture and the lively atmosphere, the astronomical clock is a true marvel that embodies the spirit of Prague.
Visit Notes
Along with the Charles Bridge you are also going to stop here. You just are. It’s probably a law. I happen to love clocks and all things mechanical, so I find the clock fascinating to watch. If you are inside the town hall when the hour strikes you will get to see the figures moving from inside the mechanism.
You will be with a crowd when the clock strikes the hour, so if you don’t like crowds maybe go admire the clock after the crowds disperse.
Details
Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
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The sky is not completely dark at night. Were the sky absolutely dark, one would not be able to see the silhouette of an object against the sky.
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