The Czech Republic is famous for its attractions. What is worth seeing when visiting this wonderful city? What emotions do tourists have when they visit a particular attraction? The answer to these questions is very important for those who dream of visiting the Czech Republic, because many attractions in various tourist countries, one might say, are slightly exaggerated. Many tourists do not like to visit museums and art galleries, so when visiting this or that city (country) they are primarily interested in atmospheric and architectural beauties (especially if these attractions are of global importance).
In general, guides are considered to be very funny people who know how to tell a lot of boring stories, stopping just in front of some sign near a building that came across on the way, as if it were the most important landmark of the city. Visiting Prague, you can easily stumble upon a "guide" -czech, who knows nothing about this city at all, but just walks and reads the signs on the buildings in the old center of Prague aloud.
So, let's get to know Prague without using such common words of all guides, travel agents, travel agencies, such as "mystical", "fantastic", "fabulous" and so on. So, where is it better to start the first acquaintance with Prague, and what can a person see during the rest of his stay in the city?
The sightseeing of Prague can be divided into several stages: the cultural stage, the gastronomic stage (it includes a visit to Czech pubs with drinking Czech beer), as well as a stage called "shopping".
Traditionally, tourists from the hotel move to the station called Muzeum, which is located in the center of Prague and is located just under the building of the famous National Museum. This place is well suited as a starting point of a route to the sights of the city. Leaving the metro station, you immediately find yourself in a place where you urgently need to get your camera. The view in front of you will be something like this: you will immediately see the beautiful building of the National Museum (People's Museum), where you can sit near some (maybe even known to everyone) monument, where informal youth from all over the city gather (this is due to the fact that not far from this place is McDonald's, without which the Europeans simply cannot imagine themselves); to the right and to the left, you will be surrounded by buildings located on Wenceslas Square (the original name is Václavské náměstí), which just originates here.
Wenceslas Square (Czech Václavské náměstí (inf.)), St. Wenceslas Square; colloquial name Vaclavak - Václavák) is one of the most famous and largest city squares in the world, the main center of New Place in Prague. Site of many historical events, traditional place of demonstrations, festivities and social gatherings. Shopping and business center of Prague, where there are large hotels, shops and cafes. The square is named after St. Wenceslas, Prince of Bohemia, heavenly patron of the country.
Previously called the Horse Market (Koňský trh), as in the Middle Ages horse fairs were held there. Renamed to Wenceslas (St. Wenceslas) Square in 1848.
All structures extend far back in two long rows. If you turn your back on the building of the National Museum, you can not only admire the excellent view of the entire Wenceslas Square, but also take some memorable pictures. You can visit the museum as you wish. But according to many tourists, this is just a waste of time. Thus, you managed to get acquainted with two beautiful sights (museum and Wenceslas). You can move on ...
In the passage of Lucerne you can see an unusual sculpture - a monument to St. Wenceslas on an inverted horse by the sculptor David Černý, the people of Prague themselves consider this masterpiece outrageous, nevertheless tourists are impressed by the unusualness of this work.
At the southeast end of the square is the imposing neo-Renaissance building of the National Museum (architect Josef Schulz, 1885-1890). The building on Wenceslas Square houses the Pantheon - a collection of busts of great people of the Czech Republic (the dome dominating the building is the dome of the Pantheon), the collection of the main part of the museum complex - the Museum of Natural History and History, as well as a library containing 1.3 million books and 8 thousand manuscripts. Wilsonova and Mezibranska streets diverge from the Museum.
If you are lucky and, having visited Prague, you will find yourself on one of the very rare sunny (or just warm) days, then you should definitely take a walk along the entire famous Wenceslas Square, from beginning to end, looking at gradually all the beautiful buildings and hotels that appear. ... When you cross the entire square, you need to join with the whole crowd into a rather narrow street called Na Mustku, and then, without turning anywhere, move along with all the tourists along this famous tourist street. This will take you to the next popular attraction in the city - Old Town Square (original name Staroměstské náměstí).
Old Town Square, Orloj and others
Old Town Square (Old Town Square, Czech Staroměstské náměstí) is an old Prague square located in the historical center of the city (Staré Mesto). Its area is about 15 thousand square meters. m. The square is surrounded by city houses with facades of various architectural styles: Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo.
This place has been known since the XII century, at that time the square was a large market, standing at the crossroads of European trade routes. In the 13th century, the square became known as the Old Market, and from the 14th century - the Old Town Market. In the 18th century, the square changed several names - Old Town Square, Big Old Town Square, Big Square. In 1895, the square received its current official name.
Here you can admire several main attractions at once: the Old Town Square itself, Orloj (the original name is Orloj), the Chrám Matky boží před Týnem church and Staroměstská radnice. Particularly curious travelers can additionally see the Svatého Mikuláše temple.
If suddenly it turns out that you get to Staromak a couple of minutes before the new hour begins, then you will definitely see a whole crowd waiting for an enchanting and "wonderful" spectacle - how the famous Orloi astronomical clock will "semaphore" and beat off the beginning new hour. According to tourists, the sight is very miserable. All who came are waiting in one breath for this moment, but in fact - zilch. For ten seconds, some incomprehensible movements of the ugly figures, which end in a generally incomprehensible beep, under which everyone for some reason begins to applaud in unison. This attraction is, according to many guests of the city, sucked from the finger, although you can put a tick - take out your camera and start taking pictures in its background. Then you should go to the door to the left of Orloj, take the elevator to the very top, buy a ticket to enter the tower and take the elevator again, and you are at your goal. This will take you to the place from where you can admire the wonderful view of Prague and take many beautiful photographs. Although there are some difficulties with this, the essence of which is that the width of the passage is only half a meter, and there are a lot of people.
Charles Bridge (Czech Karlův most) is a medieval bridge in Prague across the Vltava River, connecting the historical districts of Mala Strana and Stare Mesto. The length of the bridge is 520m, the width is 9.5m. The bridge rests on 16 powerful arches lined with hewn sandstone blocks. The stone bridge was originally called Prague Bridge, in 1870 it was officially renamed in honor of the founder Charles IV. It is decorated with thirty sculptures, mainly of religious content.
You can get to the bridge by two roads: the first one runs along the streets and tourist routes; the second runs along the embankment of the Vltava river. As a result, no matter which route you take, you will still find yourself in the most beautiful place in Prague - Charles Bridge, from where you can enjoy views of Prague Castle. This bridge offers exactly the same view of the beautiful Prague Castle, which we are used to admiring on postcards sold in various souvenir shops. To our great regret, over the past two years, Charles Bridge has been in a state of continuous renovation, so there is still nothing to see here. A complete mess and devastation. For two years, with grief, they were able to restore the distant part of the bridge in half, and now they began to work on the near part. In such a situation, you can just stand on the bridge, take a few souvenir pictures, get some air and enjoy the atmosphere around you, especially if there are not too many tourists at this time.
This is a fortress in Prague (an analogue of the East Slavic Kremlin), the residence of the President of the Czech Republic (previously - Czech kings, some emperors of the Holy Roman Empire, presidents of Czechoslovakia, imperial protectors of Bohemia and Moravia). The largest presidential residence in the world by area, possibly also the largest castle in the world.
Located in Hradcany on a high hill overlooking Prague. Exceptionally rich in architectural, artistic and historical treasures. The architectural dominant is the St. Vitus Cathedral.
The emergence of the fortress is associated with the emergence of Prague. Despite the influence of previous eras, the formation of the city took place when Slavic tribes came here in the 6th century and ousted their predecessors. The place lay at the intersection of important paths. One came from the west and branched out to the fords across the Vltava and along the Hradcany ridge to the city. Another route came from the north, at the Troy Valley it crossed the Vltava and headed towards Sharka.
The uneven land provided a wide choice for the location of a fortified settlement. Archaeological excavations only confirm this, Slavic settlements were found around in large numbers.
But the most favorable strategically was the place of the Prague Castle. From this point, the castle dominated the entire valley, in which lay the most important approaches to the fords across the Vltava.
In 1060, the St. Vitus Rotunda, the predecessor of St. Vitus Cathedral, was installed. A little later, on the site of the rotunda, Spytignev II erected the basilica of the same name.
In 1135 Sobeslav I built the first stone (Romanesque) princely palace.
By the 12th century, Prague was undergoing a period of active construction. By that time, Prague Castle had walls of the 9th-10th centuries, a moat with a rampart, a brick wall of 1042, St. Mary's Cathedral, St. Vitus Rotunda from 1060, the bishop's house, St. tower. Vysehrad at this time experienced a period of prosperity, it was considered better fortified and then served as the residence of the rulers.
In the 14th century, Charles IV began to rebuild the Castle. On his arrival in Prague in 1333, he began to build a Gothic two-story palace with a throne room on the site of an old Romanesque palace that had been destroyed by a fire in 1303. A little later, the palace was supplemented with the Chapel of All Saints. The palace stood directly next to the new building of St. Vitus Cathedral, their neighborhood was emphasized by the orientation of the main entrance and the position of the Chapel of St. Wenceslas. The entire territory of the Castle was again fortified with walls, the roofs were gilded on the two main towers at the entrance, which was inspired by the biblical New Jerusalem. Most of the work was done under the direction of Peter Parler.
In Prague Castle, you just need to walk, climb up, looking around, until, as a result, you go up to St. Vitus Cathedral. The church is very beautiful and built in the Gothic style. If you come at the right time, you might even be able to get inside. The main thing is not to forget about the hats that men need to take off, and women, on the contrary, need to put on. On the way to Prague Castle, you will most likely have to climb a fairly long staircase. Do not forget to stop at the end of such a difficult path, then catch your breath and look to the left, because there is an excellent panorama of Prague. Then you can walk around the nearby surroundings of Prague Castle, admire everything, but if you are tormented by fatigue, then turning left from the Church of St. Vitus, you can simply take a tram, which will calmly take you with a minor change to the next, no less interesting attraction with an unusual name Dancing House.
This building is located near the tram stop Jiráskovo náměstí, where trams number 17 and 21 run. The Dancing House is a modern structure, but tourists love this attraction. Of course, the house is nothing unusual, but its beautiful design undoubtedly deserves to be photographed against tourists and guests of the city.
Vyšehrad (Czech Vyšehrad) is an ancient fortress (castle) and a historical district of Prague. Located on a hill above the Vltava River south of the city center.
Within the walls of Vysehrad there are sights such as the Gothic Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, the remains of the oldest Romanesque basilica, the Romanesque rotunda of St. Martin. Vysehrad Cemetery is the burial place of famous figures of the Czech Republic.
Vysehrad is located right at the famous metro station on the red line called Vyšehrad. The only thing is that from the metro station you will have to walk a little downhill to get to this attraction. In order not to get lost, it is better to use a map or GPS, and also closely follow the signs. Vysehrad also boasts stunning views of Prague.
It is a small temple, a cemetery, many places for walking. There is also a very small museum, and the most interesting thing is the catacombs, which you can enter only once an hour. These catacombs contain original old statues from Charles Bridge. It is very atmospheric and gothic to be in a dimly lit room between these statues, so be sure to look there and you will not regret it.
A unique phenomenon in the world architecture. You can find buildings of this style only in Prague!
Adria Palace (Praha 1 - Nové Město, Jungmannova 31/36, Národní 40), style: rondocubism (national decorativeism, arched cubism)
One of the striking examples is the building of the Italian insurance company “Riunione Adriatica di Sicurita”, built in 1922-25. (architects Pavel Janák (1882-1956) and Josef Zasche). The house with two corner turrets resembles a North Italian Renaissance palace. Both facades are richly decorated with geometric ornaments and sculptures (authors - Jan Štursa, Otto Gutfreund). Between the towers there is a sculpture depicting an allegory of seafaring and sailing.
TV tower
Zizkov Television Tower (Czech Žižkovský vysílač) is a television and broadcasting tower in Prague, in the Zizkov district.
The tower was built in 1985-1992. Height - 216 meters, it is the tallest structure in the Czech Republic.
The tower has received international reviews both as a tourist attraction and as the ugliest building. The location was criticized (destruction of part of the Jewish cemetery (Czech), electromagnetic background, violation of the panorama of Prague).
The tower consists of three concrete pillars, connected by transverse platforms, on which the broadcasting equipment, a restaurant, a cafe and three observation rooms are located. The tower looks like a missile on a launch pad. Figures of crawling children are also an interesting decoration (composition "Babies" by David Cherny, 2000).
The elevator takes you to the restaurant (66 m high) and to the observation deck, located at an altitude of 93 m, from where a unique view opens up to 100 km.
The tower is also used as a meteorological laboratory.
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If you want to "plunge headlong" into Gothic architecture, then your search will certainly lead you to beautiful Prague, where both Gothic and Baroque quirkiness are harmoniously combined. The Old Town Square offers amazing views of the city. Charles Bridge is one of the most beautiful places in Prague, it can rightfully be called a historical monument. Moreover, what is interesting is that, despite various historical twists and turns, the ancient buildings of the city have been perfectly preserved. Anyway, Prague is one of the most mysterious and interesting cities in Europe.
For many decades, there have been endless debates about the architectural style in which this beautiful city is sustained. A variety of architectural samples are harmoniously intertwined in it. At a time when the French grimaced at the sight of the tower created by the Eiffel, in the capital of the Czech Republic they erected their own - the Petřín Tower, which gives a good overview of the city. Its height is six tens of meters.
The old streets, in which baroque churches “settled down” comfortably, appeared magnificent buildings of the most fashionable trends of the beginning of the last century. One of the most interesting sights of the city, built at the beginning of the 20th century, can be called the Municipal House, built in 1903-1912 by architects O. Polivk and A. Balshanek. It is located not far from another historical monument - the Powder Gate. The museum house amazes the imagination with its mosaics that adorn its facade and a glass dome that organically “covers” the concert hall. The house was decorated with paintings by A. Mukha, and in the general appearance of the building there is a bright Art Nouveau.
Perhaps, almost all styles that have ever existed have very organically found their place in the city space. Here is also cubism, represented by a domo with the eerie name At the Black Mother of God, which is located not far from the ancient Church of St. Nicholas, This House was created by J. Gonchar, and his creation is atmospheric combined with the work of Picasso. You should definitely admire this building and walk up the stairs with magnificent contours from the inside. Cubism is also expressed and, perhaps, in the only lantern on the entire planet, and the latter very naturally stood among the Gothic and Baroque.
From Czech Cubism, other directions of architecture emerged, no less interesting. For example, the same constructivism and functionalism. Future architects practice in this ancient city - a real museum, which presents the most remarkable monuments of the history of the development of architecture. Adolf Loss, Josef Plechnik and other masters of the genre made interesting decisions in the overall appearance of the architectural ensemble of the capital.
It is worth admiring not only the old buildings, but also the monument of the days not so long ago. For example, visit the obelisk, which was erected in memory of those killed in the First World War. This obelisk is very successful and, at the same time, interestingly displays in its facets the beautiful Cathedral of St. Vitus.
If you go a little further along the road of development of architectural trends, you can admire the creations in the style of postmodernism, the founder of which can be confidently considered Frank Gary. The luxurious complex called Ginger and Fred is a unique gift from the master to the ancient city. It originated in the city after World War II.
A real celebration of world architecture, an open-air museum - that's what Prague is. Dances of all times, gracefully frozen in stone and telling the long history of the ancient capital. It can be argued that the “new birth” of the city, already post-communist, was given to the city by one of its mayors, who was himself an architect in the past - Jan Castle. Not to stop at one place, to reveal more and more the potential of the city, harmoniously adding new trends in it - is this not a fairy tale?
The current millennium has presented its gifts to the ancient city. Among them - the building of the Darex department store, which has received a new, in a modern style. And in general, quite a lot of various works in the avant-garde style appeared on the streets, not in the least spoiling the appearance of the city, but complementing it. And the restoration of old buildings is now taking place using the latest technologies designed not only to preserve, but also to emphasize the beauty of the buildings.
Anyone who is going to go to Prague should definitely look at the buildings that are called the Buildings of the Future. This project was presented by French architect Jean Nouvel, and the spectacular metal and glass complex depicting a cherub opened its doors to visitors. There is a wonderful shopping center in it. And, of course, admire other achievements of ancient and modern architecture. To visit Prague means to see the history of the world frozen in stone. So that we remember, know, learn and be inspired by the beauty of the creation of human hands.
Classicism (from Lat. Classicus - exemplary) - artistic style in European art 17 - early. 19th centuries, the main feature of which was the appeal to the forms of ancient architecture as a standard, which contained the harmony of simplicity, rigor, logical clarity and monumentality. One of the main requirements for buildings of this style is the subordination of the architectural composition to the order system, which in form and proportions, to a greater extent than all previous eras, approaches the ideal forms and images of the ancient world.
The architecture of classicism as a whole is characterized by regularity of planning, clarity of volumetric form, smooth masses of walls, clear spatial solution, soft colors, moderation in the use of plastic decor, emphasizing the general structure of the structure or the austerity and beauty of the interior. This is also served by monumental sculpture and painting, which make up a single whole with the entire architect. construction. However, architecture remains dominant.
The most valuable example of the transition from Baroque to Classicism is considered the solution of the main facade of the Strahov Library. The building arose in 1783-86 as a result of the reconstruction of the former granary!
Problems of Classicism and Peculiarities of Prague Architecture
The era of the beginning of the national awakening in artistic terms coincides with the period of classicism.
Classicism is an artistic style in European art, which turned to the forms of ancient architecture as a norm and an ideal model.
A clear orientation of the concept of classicism is hampered by the many-sided nature of its internal content and geographical adaptation. First of all, this is an appeal to the works of Palladio (16th century) and the associated architectural style of the 17th and 18th centuries, which took root in France, Holland, England and Germany.
The predominant absolutism of the Enlightenment at the beginning of the century was transformed as a result of the reaction to the French Revolution into the absolutism of the police regime. The period of all-round decline in the second quarter of the 19th century. merges with the beginning of the technical era. In addition, already at the end of the 18th century. classicism was accompanied by early romanticism that arose in England. In the first half of the 19th century. the Biedermeier appears, especially taking root in the philistine everyday culture.
Classicism in Bohemia manifested itself in the last third of the 18th century - the first half of the 19th century, a period full of contradictions. On the one hand, it was the time of the next Germanization of the Czech lands - the time of the programmatic suppression of the Czech language. On the other hand, the era of national revival was gradually but irresistibly approaching.
The internal ideological content of classicism in relation to local architecture is represented by a small number of buildings. Hundreds of other varied examples have nothing to do with the programmatic basis of classicism. The Empire style (associated with the era of Napoleon's victories) did not sound at all in Prague architecture.
In Prague architecture, the manifestations of classicism can be approximately limited to 1780-1850 years.
Early classicism
In the 80s of the 18th century, the Habsburg residence of Prague, due to the Theresian reforms, was under the threat of becoming a province.
At the same time, in artistic terms, Prague was significantly higher than all the centers of the Habsburg Empire, including Vienna.
Soon its magnificent splendor was covered by the shadow of "Josephinism" (the implementation of the reforms of Emperor Joseph II), which at first had a ts. "Friendly facial expression".
In 1781, a commission for the transformation of the city was created, the results of which were: filling the remaining part of the moat between the Old and New towns and the creation of a new avenue, called "In the new alleys". Thus, in 1788, the first Prague intra-city communication appeared.
A year later, the closure of many monasteries and churches began, which led to the destruction of countless artistic values and the utilitarian devaluation of exceptional works of architecture. A number of famous buildings have undergone reconstruction. The appearance of Prague "did not enrich" and the barbaric demolition of such objects as the Corpus Christi Church on Charles Square and the Betlem Chapel.
Josephine lack of culture was not limited to interference in objects of worship. The recently renovated Prague Castle was threatened with transformation into barracks, while the summer Royal Palace, the Zvezda Palace and other buildings befell.
The cold look of Josephine rationalism influenced the development of the artistic appearance of streets and squares. The program provided for the removal of the rich plastic decor of the previous styles and the creation of simple flat facades of a strictly symmetrical character.
We must not forget that, unlike other states, the Czech Republic is a country where the mature baroque sounded bright and expressive in its dynamic manifestation. The late Baroque style had the power of sounding even after the Seven Years War, without losing its vitality and ability to solve problems at a high artistic level.
Tellingly, the Viennese style, which manifested itself in the Theresian reconstruction of the Prague Castle (architect N. Pakkasi), did not find a response in other Prague buildings.
Only in the 70s. 18th century festoons, typical elements of French architecture from the times of Louis XV and XIV, are announced on the facade of the Kounicki Palace.
Rotunda of St. The cross is interesting in that it stands at its original level, its foundation has not been raised over the years, which distinguishes it from most other buildings in the Old Town. The chapel is also called the Treasury: in 1960 - 1991, it contained jewels from the Cathedral of St. Vita.
The beginning of Prague classicism is marked by the construction of the Nostick Theater.
Representatives of the early classical style: Antonin Gaffenecker, Ignaz Palliardi, Humml, Gegera, Schmidt and others, as a rule, remained faithful to the Baroque style for a long time, limited classicism only to the use of secondary elements. Gradually, classical details began to supplant baroque elements.
The period of mature Prague classicism
The style of Louis XV - mature rococo, in all whimsical beauty, is replaced by the style of Louis XVI, the forms of which become more strict. The Louis XVI style is a cross between baroque, rococo and classicism, it is represented mainly by characteristic furniture, but it also penetrates the architecture of European states.
The reaction against the unbridled pretentiousness and ornateness of Rococo began in the heyday of the style. The era of the Regency, and then of Louis XV, characterized by the pampered art of Rococo, fed up the tastes of the aristocracy, which now strived for rigor and simplicity.
Having come to power, nineteen-year-old Louis XVI tried to rehabilitate royal power.
By this time, the artistic policy of absolutism was changing. Rococo pastorals cease to satisfy royal officials, there is a need for the revival of a "majestic style" capable of supporting decrepit absolutism. As the revolution approaches, the preaching of family virtue is replaced by the affirmation of civic virtue, a call to heroic deeds. It was for this that antiquity was needed, in which they were looking for an example of heroism, republican ideals.
The Louisez style brought round and oval laurel wreaths and scallops to Prague, wavy ribbons with bows and flattened rectangular volutes, twisted like a Greek meander.
Empire style
Empire style (FR in European countries, the final phase of the evolution of classicism; a trend in architecture that glorified the Napoleonic empire; along with the use of types and forms of antiquity, it also retained features of ancient Egyptian stylistics (Egyptian sphinxes, carved Egyptian ornament). The buildings of this solemn style are characterized by the use of Doric and Tuscan orders, expressing power and greatness; the use of images of military attributes as a decor. Among the monumental structures of this period, a significant place is occupied by triumphal arches and columns.
In Czech literature, the architecture of late classicism in any of its manifestations is often mistakenly called Empire style. Referring to the authoritative (E. Pohe and others), we note that in Prague the Empire style practically did not show itself. On the territory of the Czech Republic, you can find relatively pure manifestations of this style.
Prague (Czech Republic) - the most detailed information about the city with a photo. The main sights of Prague with descriptions, guides and maps.
Prague city (Czech Republic)
Food and drink
Prague has a huge number of restaurants and cafes for every taste and budget. It is simply a paradise for gourmets and gastronomic tourists. Mainly Czech, European and Asian cuisine is presented. It is logical that eating in the tourist center of the city will be much more expensive than in the outskirts. But at the same time, prices do not look exorbitant and are affordable for most tourists. You can find a restaurant on this website - https://www.menicka.cz/praha-1.html. The average cost of food per person is 150-200 CZK.
Czech cuisine is quite high in calories. Dishes are usually large, so calculate your strength correctly. It is mainly represented by pork dishes (although there are dishes from beef, duck), fried and pickled cheese, many dishes are served with dumplings - steamed dough or potato products. Voles and garlic are usually prepared from soups. The list of desserts is usually not large and is represented by different types of pastries - strudels, sweet dumplings, trdelniks.
Beer is a separate topic. Prague and the Czech Republic as a whole are strongly associated with this drink. There are a lot of pubs here. Beer is served in almost all restaurants and cafes. Here you can try both famous brands - Budweiser, Krusovice, Kelt, Pilsner, Gambrinus, Kozel, as well as the products of small breweries. The most popular beer is draft beer. It is stored in metal kegs.
Mostly light (lighter) and dark (tmave) beer is widespread. Dark beers are usually milder. Beer is the national drink of the Czech Republic, therefore, almost everywhere it is very tasty and of excellent quality, and sometimes it also costs less than other drinks.
sights
The main sights of Prague, which every tourist must see.
(Czech Vyšehrad) - an ancient fortress (castle) and a historical district. Vysehrad is located on a hill above the Vltava River south of the city center. A beautiful view of Prague opens up from here.
Also in Vysehrad itself there are several interesting sights. Within the walls of the ancient fortress there are: the New Gothic Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, the remains of the ancient Romanesque basilica, the Romanesque rotunda of St. Martin, the Vysehrad cemetery (the burial place of famous Czech figures).
(Czech Karlův most) - the most beautiful stone bridge across the Vltava, connecting the historical districts of Mala Strana and Stare Mesto. This is one of the main symbols of Prague and, probably, the most beautiful stone bridge in the world. They began to operate it back in 1380.
According to legend, the first stone was laid in 1357 by Charles IV - Holy Roman Emperor. For a long time, the Charles Bridge connected Stare Mesto and Mala Strana and served for the passage of kings and delegations to Prague Castle. The entrance to the bridge on both sides is decorated with magnificent Gothic bridge towers: the Old Town Tower (Staroměstská mostecká věž) and the Lesser Town Towers (Malostranská mostecká věž).
The Powder Tower (Czech Prašná brána) is a majestic Gothic tower built in the 15th century. The Powder Tower is located on Republic Square. The first part of the road leading to Prague Castle begins at the gate. The height of the powder tower is 65 m. At a height of 44 m there is an observation deck, which can be reached by a spiral staircase. The first stone of the tower was laid in 1475.
Prague Castle (Czech Pražský hrad) is a legendary fortress and castle, which for a long time was the center of the Czech state. Located on a hill that stretches from the Petrin Hill. A wonderful view of Prague opens up from Prague Castle. In the south, the fortress connects with the Mala Strana region, in the north it is bounded by the Deer Moat.
Prague Castle is a complex of buildings, churches and fortifications located around three main courtyards, St. George's Square and Irzhskaya Street. The main architectural attraction is the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane.
Prague Castle (Czech Staroměstské náměstí) is one of the most beautiful old Prague squares, located in the historical center of the city in the Stare Mesto district. Different architectural styles are bizarrely mixed on the square: Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo. The Old Town Square embodies the spirit of Prague, so it is a must-visit for all tourists.
The Old Town Hall is a famous landmark of the Old Town Square. This is one of the most important and beautiful buildings in this historic district of Prague. The founding of the town hall dates back to the 14th century. At an altitude of 70 meters, there is an observation deck, which can be climbed on weekdays from 9.00 to 19.00, and on weekends from 9.00 to 18.00. It offers a stunning view of the old city. The medieval astronomical clock, also called the Prague Astronomical Clock or Orloj, is located on the south wall of the Town Hall. This is one of the most famous astronomical clocks in the world, which is very popular among tourists due to a small performance that takes place every hour from 8.00 to 20.00.
An iconic building in Prague, one of the most impressive Gothic buildings in Europe and a visiting card. Its pointed spiers pierce the sky, and the temple dominates the square, hiding behind the facades of houses, but at the same time being the most visible part of it. Tyn Church is an extensive gallery of Gothic, Renaissance and early Baroque, and its organ is the oldest in Prague.
The history of the temple begins in the 12th century. Already at this time, a Romanesque basilica was built in its place. The history of the modern Tyn Church began in the 14th century, when wealthy Prague residents decided to build a new church here. The construction of the temple continued until the beginning of the 16th century. In the 17th century, the interior was reconstructed in the Baroque style.
The Tyn Church came to us through the centuries practically intact, apart from a couple of fires, after which the northern tower and the vault of the nave were restored.
The Dancing House is an office building in Prague. The building was built in the style of deconstructivism. It consists of two cylindrical towers, one of which is normal and the other destructive. The Dancing House stands out sharply from the surrounding architecture. The Dancing House resembles a dancing couple. One part of the building (the one that expands upward) symbolizes a male figure, and the second part of the building visually resembles a female figure.
Clementium (Czech. Klementinum) is an architectural complex located in the historic district of Stare Mesto. This is one of the largest architectural complexes in the city, second only to the Prague Castle.
Josefov (Czech. Josefov) - the Jewish quarter and one of the most mystical and mysterious places in the city. Located in Prague 1. Until 1850 it was the center of the Jewish community. The name of the quarter comes from the name of Emperor Joseph II, who improved the life of Jews during the reforms. The Jewish Quarter is located between the right bank of the Vltava River and the Old Town Square.
Josefov appeared in Prague in 1850 during an administrative transformation. Several interesting sights are located here: the Old New Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, Klaus Synagogue, High Synagogue, Jewish Town Hall, Prague Jewish Cemetery.
Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) is a beautiful garden (zahrada) located in the center of Prague. A real corner of peace and quiet. A garden appeared near the Wallenstein Palace at the beginning of the 17th century, and now the Senate of the Republic is located in this quiet and cozy place. Here you can see peacocks, large carps in the pond and beautiful bronze sculptures.
Kampa Island (Czech Kampa) is an artificial island in Prague called "Prague Venice". This is an amazingly picturesque and romantic place. You can get to Kampa Island by going down the stairs from Charles Bridge, just behind the Brunswick statue. On the one side the Kampa is separated by the majestic Vltava, on the other side - the Devil, one of her sleeves.
Kampa Island was formed around the 15th century. It was originally covered with gardens. But after a fire in 1541, from which Prague was very badly damaged, the remains of the damaged buildings began to be brought to the island. Due to this, it was possible to level the surface and build up the island. Craftsmen were the first to settle here. Behind them, wealthy people began to populate the island.
Now on the Kampa island there are many cafes, restaurants with an excellent view of the Vltava and Charles Bridge, many hotels. On the island it is pleasant to walk along the banks of the Vltava and Chertovka, admire the architecture of the buildings that are located at the very edge of the water.
Wenceslas Square In fact, there are a huge number of other interesting places in Prague:
- Prague Zoo is one of the largest and most interesting in Europe.
- Troy castle with a beautiful garden next to the zoo.
- Strahov Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Prague.
- Wenceslas Square is one of the central Prague squares, very beloved by Prague residents themselves.
- Petřín Hill with gardens - green "lungs" of Prague. One of the most picturesque places in the capital of the Czech Republic. The Czech "Eiffel" tower is installed here.
- Prague Loreta is a magnificent baroque complex.
- The Temple of the Virgin Mary of the Snow is an old 14th century Gothic church with baroque elements.
- Kranner's Fountain is a 19th century stone fountain in the Gothic style.
- And dozens of other sights, ancient buildings and simply interesting places.
How do you get used to reading about the sights of Prague (and any other city)? "Architect such and such, built then, address is such and such, boo-boo-boo." They read it and immediately forgot it. Gone.com declares war on boring descriptions! In today's article, we provide a short but capacious description of each of Prague's sights with three sentences - nothing more, nothing less. Plus a photo and a place on the map. A minimum of unnecessary information and all the most important things will remain in your memory. At the end of the article, you will find a map of Prague with sights.
Oh, it's a pity there was no such article about the sights of Prague when we went to the Czech Republic for the first time!
The main attractions of Prague: what awaits you in this article
Photo of Prague Castle from the observation deck of the Petrin Tower. From here you can see the main sights of Prague - both on the right and on the left bank of the Vltava.
Attractions of Prague on the map (Mala Strana district)
Prague landmarks in the Hradcany area
33. Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the largest castle in the world, it can be safely included in the category "Main attractions of Prague" along with Charles Bridge and Old Town Square. Previously, the kings of the Czech Republic and the Holy Roman Empire lived here, now the residence of the president is here - of course, also the largest in the world. There is a huge number of beautiful buildings in styles from Gothic to Baroque with an interesting history, you can read more about them in our article:
Prague Castle, like the whole city, is especially beautiful during the golden autumn.
34. St. Vitus Cathedral
The Gothic Cathedral of St. Vitus is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Europe. Founded back in 925, various premises of the temple were built up to the XX century. Here are buried St. Wenceslas, kings and archbishops of the Czech Republic, and now in the Cathedral of St. Vitus is the residence of the Archbishop of Prague.
The full name of the temple is the Cathedral of St. Vitus, Wenceslas and Vojtech. But for some reason, the last two are forgotten all the time.
35. Basilica of St. George
The oldest church of Prague Castle, founded at the beginning of the 10th century. At the end of the same century, the convent of St. George was added to it, which no longer operates. The first nun of the abbey was the prince's sister Vlada.
The main attractions of Prague. In the photo: St. George's Basilica at Prague Castle.
36. Schwarzenberg Palace
The Schwarzenberg Palace in Prague was built in the middle of the 16th century and is considered one of the masterpieces of Czech Renaissance architecture. It now houses a gallery of paintings by Czech artists and an exhibition of weapons. From the outside, it seems that the palace is lined with relief tiles, but this is an optical effect: in fact, it is a very skillful painting.
The Schwarzenberg Palace seems to be decorated with relief tiles in the shape of a pyramid.
37. Royal Garden
The Royal Gardens are separated from the Prague Castle by the Deer Moat. Here, for the first time, such unusual for the Czech Republic plants as maple, chestnut, figs, and tulips began to be bred. Before that, royal vineyards grew here.
The Royal Garden is located within walking distance of Prague Castle and it is convenient to visit these sights of Prague in one visit.
38. Queen Anne's Summer Palace
Queen Anne is the wife of Ferdinand I, Holy Roman Emperor. The Queen's Summer Palace was built in the eastern part of the Royal Garden in the 16th century. Now there are exhibitions of paintings and sometimes the President of the Czech Republic receives guests.
The summer palace of Queen Anne is not quite typical for Prague in its architecture, it was built by Italians.
39. Street New World
Very quiet, cozy and beautiful street near Prague Castle, where you can enjoy a relaxing walk without the tourist crowds. The houses here are small, like toys. Since the XIV century, servants and builders who worked in the Prague Castle lived here, after which musicians and other creative people chose this place.
Welcome to Novy Svet Street - a tourist-free territory! Could you please move away, I'm taking pictures. Both you and you three, thank you.
40. Prague Loreta
Prague Loreta is a whole complex of buildings in the area of Loreta Square. These are mainly religious buildings built in the 17th century, as well as two fountains. The largest and most beautiful building is the Church of the Nativity of the Lord (pictured).
In winter, Prague Loreta is beautiful! However, in the summer it is no less beautiful.
41. Strahov Monastery
The Strahov Monastery in Prague was founded in the middle of the 12th century, and in the 17th century it was completely rebuilt after a fire. The largest library of the Czech Republic is located here, but the most interesting thing for tourists is the monastery brewery with delicious, but not divinely expensive beer. The monastery walls offer a beautiful panoramic view of the sights of Prague, located on the opposite bank of the Vltava River.
Sights of Prague, Hradcany, Strahov Monastery. The photo was taken from the observation deck of the Petrin Tower.
Tourist map of Prague with attractions (Hradcany district):
Prague sights on the outskirts of the center
42. Zizkov TV Tower
This tower deserves to be included in the list of "Main attractions of Prague" because many consider it to be the ugliest building in Prague (only eyeless babies climbing the tower are worth something). It is also the tallest building in the Czech Republic, with a height of 216 meters. At a height of 93 meters, there is an observation deck with a dubious view - after all, it's far from the main attractions.
They say that in clear weather, the ižkov TV Tower offers a view even of neighboring countries.
43. Prague Zoo
If you love animals or come with a child for a few days, you simply cannot pass by this Prague landmark. The local zoo is considered one of the best in the world, with almost five thousand animals from all over the world! There is also a very beautiful territory here, the inscriptions are duplicated in Russian, and a separate article is devoted to the Prague menagerie on our website:
The Prague Zoo also offers a free service: bird feeding! By myself)))
44. Troy Castle
Troy Castle (also known as the Troy Summer Palace) is located across the street from the Prague Zoo. Built at the end of the 17th century for local nobles, now it houses an art gallery and a wine museum. To save money, you can buy a Troy Card combined ticket for 300 CZK and use it to visit three nearby Prague attractions: Troy Castle, Botanical Garden and Zoo.
The Czech Republic is not only about beer. Winemaking traditions are also very strong here, and there is even a wine museum in Troy Castle.
45. Letná Gardens
Letná sady is a very large beautiful park on a hill near the Vltava river. There are a lot of interesting things here: shady alleys and sunny lawns, the Prague metronome and the oldest carousel in Europe, cozy restaurants and playgrounds ... But the main thing is that there are several observation decks (and all of them are free!), From which a beautiful view of all the bridges opens. Vltava and Old Town.
How to get the perfect route? We have compiled (and tested on ourselves) two excellent travel scenarios to Prague - for 3 and 7 days. With their help, you can get around all the main sights of Prague on your own. Or you can hire an experienced guide - fortunately, there is no shortage of good Russian guides in Prague:
Where to drink the famous Czech beer? Beer houses are independent sights of Prague, which any tourist must visit - if only just for the sake of the atmosphere. We have bypassed for you (well, not for the sake of drunkenness!) The most famous and legendary beer houses of the Czech capital and present you our TOP-10:
Where to stay at the hotel? Rent a room more expensive and closer to attractions, or cheaper, but in a quieter area? Our review will help you answer this age-old question, in which we analyze not only the districts of the city, but also the specific hotels that we have selected for our travels:
To be honest, we ourselves did not believe that we would be able to fit all the main and main sights of Prague into one article. But now you have a ready-made guide to the most interesting places in Prague, all that remains is to draw up a route and decide where to go and what to see from this list!
Dear friends, what sights of Prague do you recommend to visit? What did you like the most? We are waiting for your feedback on the trip to this magical city!
