A Walk Through Golden Prague




 

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Prague has a lot to offer to tourists. Now capital of the Czech Republic, the city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia. The history of “Praha” wouldn’t disappoint anybody who decides to embark on a journey through this magical place. However, this is not the only thing which the Czech city can offer. Prague is a sweet spot for partygoers and pleasure-seekers, museum lovers, architecture connoisseurs, and finally - for the dessert lovers.

The Old Town Square and the Church of Mother of God before Týn in the back, Daria Naidenova for AUBG Daily

 

Situated on both banks of the Vltava River, Prague offers city visitors the chance to spend an hour or two on a pedalo, floating down the river, and enjoying the beauty of the city. This is definitely time well spent which no one would regret. Some other activities which tourists enjoy are the river excursions and tours down the peacefully-flowing water of Vltava. One can go on a sightseeing tour to contemplate the breathtaking views while learning about the city’s history, or simply enjoy a dinner cruise with tasty meals. 

Prague’s architecture and the Vltava river, Daria Naidenova for AUBG Daily

 

For those who prefer to just stroll down the roads of Golden Prague, there is plenty to see too. It is almost impossible for a tourist to visit the city and not see the Old Town Square - a historic square located in the center of the capital. The most distinguished landmark of Staré Město (Old Town Square in Czech) is the 610-year-old Prague Astronomical Clock. From 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. large crowds of people gather in front of it to enjoy a spectacular show - 'The Walk of the Apostles.' Just when the clock strikes the hour, the Twelve Apostles and other figures appear оn the astronomical clock’s windows and start moving circularly. It is worth seeing this magical motion at least once when passing by the square. 

Prague Astronomical Clock, photo courtesy of Wallpaper Flare

 

Many tourists love to see "The Dancing House" when walking down the streets of Prague. The building is nicknamed "Fred and Ginger" after the famous dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, and it resembles a pair of dancers. Because of its unique design and artistic significance, "The Dancing House" has turned into one of the most easily recognizable landmarks in Prague. 

The Dancing House, Daria Naidenova for AUBG Daily

 

Tourists often visit and photograph the John Lennon Wall, a little gem in Prague, which is not greatly known. It is located in a secluded square near the Charles Bridge. The wall is filled with John Lennon-inspired graffiti, lyrics from Beatles' songs, love poems, and more. After Lennon’s assassination in 1980, the wall received its first decoration, which was an image of the singer and song lyrics. This form of recognition transformed the wall from something unremarkable to a symbol of freedom and love for the great musician.

John Lennon Wall, photo courtesy of Roman Boed; photo derived from  https://flickr.com/photos/92082510@N04/29184872911

 

Charles bridge (Karlův most) is one of the places which people immediately associate Prague with. Artists paint it all day long, photographers always wait for the right moment to capture its magical beauty, and musicians always find a spot on it to turn the day into a song. There are 30 statues of saints along the bridge. This historical place connects the Prague Castle and the city’s Old Town. A simple walk on it to admire the sheer beauty of the ancient city is a good enough reason to visit it. When there, tourists can immerse themselves even deeper in the magical spirit of Prague by rubbing the bronze plaque at the base of the statue of St. John of Nepomuk (the eight one from the right when crossing towards the castle). The legend says that if you do this, you will surely come back to Prague one day. Due to the countless tourists’ palms placed on the panel, a bright golden sheen has been formed, now allowing to see where to touch the statue, since there is a specific spot which does the magic.

Charles Bridge, Photo courtesy of Jorge Franganillo, photo derived from https://www.flickr.com/photos/franganillo/40018857000

 

For the museum lovers, Prague offers a wide variety of interesting places to see, including Museum of Communism, Museum of Torture, Illusion Art MuseumMadame Tussauds, and even Sex Machines Museum. Basically, there is something for everybody. In Madame Tussauds you can play some football with a realistic David Beckham, enjoy a Mojito with George Clooney, or take a peek at the smashed door from “The Shining” with Jack Nicholson standing next to you. Another amazing venue that is not to be missed is the Museum of Communism. It displays the post World War II Communist regime in Czechoslovakia and specifically in Prague, showing what life was like behind the Iron Curtain. Installations, archive photographs, artifacts, documents, and many other things contribute to the excellence of the museum.

Jack Nicholson wax figure at the Madame Tussauds museum, Daria Naydenova for AUBG Daily

 

As promised, partygoers will not be disappointed either. Prague is fraught with places to have fun, grab a drink, or dance under the disco lights. Beer enthusiasts looking for the next kind of ambrosia drink to try often choose the traditional pubs. Since Czechs are one of the biggest-drinking nations in the world, tourists will always find a place to grab a beer. One different bar that catches the attention with its peculiarity is the Ice Pub. You are allowed to stay only twenty minutes which unbelievably is more than enough. When entering, you pay a fixed fee and then you are given a special jacket to keep you warm. Once inside what feels like the North Pole, you order either an ice-cold vodka or a beer.  This should help with ignoring the fact that the temperature is around -8 degrees. However, even though this place makes you shiver, it is definitely worth the experience.

The Church of Mother of God before Týn and the Old Town Square, Daria Naidenova for AUBG Daily

 

For the people who have a sweet tooth, Prague is the place to be! At every corner, tourists can fill paper bags with as much candy as they would like without feeling guilty. The experience is like you are in a kingdom of sweets. Another super delicious sweet is the so-called “Trdelník”, which is a kind of spit cake made from rolled dough wrapped around a stick and then grilled and topped with sugar.

Trdelník, Daria Naidenova for AUBG Daily

 

Prague is undoubtedly a gem everybody should visit at least once (twice if you rub the statue of John Nepomuk). It is no surprise that people call it “Golden Prague.”  The place is indeed golden. Such an amazing city can hardly be described in such a short text. That is why I advise you to add this destination to your bucket list and go explore all of the wonderful places it has to offer.

Trdelník, Daria Naidenova for AUBG Daily

 




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