Architecture in Prague

Almost invariably, a trip to Europe is going to mean almost constant exposure to some of the most impressive and beautiful architecture in the history of the world, and Prague, capitol of the Czech Republic, may just have some of the finest examples. Located on the banks of the River Vltava in Central Bohemia, it’s impossible to visit this medieval seat of culture and commerce without being awed by the sheer magnitude and charm of its many old-world structures. At first site you’ll know exactly why the city’s entire historic centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even your hotel or hostel can be an architectural site you won’t forget.

It would take far too long to describe all the architectural wonders of Prague, and why even try? Part of the draw of this amazing place is that you can wander aimlessly through its streets and never stop finding something new to marvel at, and for visitors there’s no better place to start your stroll than on the Charles Bridge. Commissioned by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 1357, the span of this stone behemoth was built wide enough for four carriages to pass simultaneously, as they traversed the River Vltava. Lined with dozens of stone carved monuments to Catholic saints that are attractions in and of themselves, today it is the ideal place from which to take in the natural beauty of the river’s tree-lined banks, and get an unparalleled panoramic view of both sides of the city. But don’t take my word for it. Here’s what RealTraveler Shans had to say about the Charles Bridge during her recent visit to Prague:

“Prague is quite an eclectic little city. First of all its very antique looking, as it is one of the cities that managed to stay together during all the bombings of WWII. It feels a bit like you are meandering around a medieval town with a hint of today sprinkled on top. The statues on the Charles Bridge are both ominous and spectacular. They hold a dark feel with their black stone collecting dirt and dust over the years, as well as a beauty due to the craftsmanship involved in sculpting them and the stories that they tell. Not to mention they make you feel minuscule compared to their towering features. When the sun is starting to set, they cast crazy shadows that make you feel both protected and overpowered. I wish I had a chance to see the effect at sunset! Guess I will just have to go back… “ (more…)

Need the time? Look no further than the Prague Astronomical Clock, also known as the Prague Orloj, the giant and impressively intricate clock mounted on the Southern wall of the Old Town City Hall in the Old Town Square. As beautiful as it is practical, this is one of the most visited historical attractions in Prague that reflects the medieval period in which it was built, with the sun rotating around the Earth and Roman as well as Medieval Arabic numbers. Be sure to stop by at the top of the hour, when the sculpture of a skeleton (representing death) beside the clocks turns over an hourglass in one hand and pulls a rope with the other, which begins “The Walk of the Apostles”, a mechanical parade of sculptures of the apostles above the clock, lead by Saint Paul.

Have I convinced you to visit Prague yet? If not, just check out some of these resources, and you won’t need any convincing; you’ll just want to go:

Prague Travel Guide
Prague Hotels
Prague Attractions
Prague Travel Blogs

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