2011-06-24

Exploring Prague

Prague has become one of the most popular places to visit in Europe. The combination of great sights and low prices makes it a very great place for a vacation. You can find cheap hotels, cheap gourmet food and large beers.

The building of the castle Prazsky Hrad from the 9th century was the beginning of the history of Prague. It is located on a hill high above the Vltava River.
A monastery, three churches and a palace is located behind the castle walls. In 1320 the city Hradcany was founded in one part of the castle’s outer courtyard.
The castle has been the seat of the president since 1918. Every hour there is changing of the Guard in front of the castle. At noon it includes a fanfare.
The old part of Prague is called Stare Mesto. Centrally located in the area is Staromestske namesti (in English Old Town Square). A lot of historical buildings surround the square; a sight that can be compared with almost any other European city.
In the 1000 century the first settlements started around the castle. From here the settlers spread to the right side of the Vltava River, where houses and churches where build around the square.
The Old Town Hall was built in 1338 and in 1490 the unusual astronomical clock was added. Today large groups crowd to watch the show with odd performers like a rooster, a turkey, apostles, the Death, the Greed and the Vanity.
The 520 meter long Charles Bridge was built in 1357. And until 1741 it was the only way to cross the Vltava River. It is built of sandstone blocks; and it is said to have been reinforced with an odd combination of mortar and eggs.
The original decoration was just a simple cross. In 1683 the first of many statues was set up. Today all the statues give the bridge its characteristic look.
The bridge is a popular place for tourists; and for artists and merchants who offer the wares to the tourists.
Prague used to be cheaper. But it is still possible to find good and cheap shopping. And it is not just wares from the former East Europe that are for sale.

Since the Velvet Revolution in 1989 a lot has happened in Prague; both in terms of foreign and Czech products. Today all major American and Western European brands are represented in Prague. And you can easily spend a full day shopping in department stores and specialty shops in downtown Prague.

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