Prague, vibrant capital of the Czech Republic, a city rich in history, tradition and culture, combines past and present in a symphony of stones with mysterious and haunting intonations.
Revenue in the world after a communist asphyxiation forty years, it is with enthusiasm that Prague becomes one of the most popular destinations of Europe.
Here are five must-see places among many other great attractions that make up the city of Prague.
1.Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
Largest ancient castle in the world, Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) dominates the whole city from its colossal figure. Seat of political power of the presidents of the Czech Republic, but also long before them kings and emperors of the Holy Roman Empire, the castle still houses the crown jewels of Bohemia and behind its walls attracts hordes of tourists.
True heart of the castle, St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála svatého Víta) is a spectacular example of Gothic architecture. Founded in 1344, it is however in 1929 it was completed in its current version. Inside, the stained glass windows by Alfons Mucha, the choir and the rose are particularly striking. It is in the royal crypt based Charles IV, his three wives, Wenceslas I and Rudolf II.
The funeral chapel of St. Wenceslas is considered a masterpiece. It is possible to climb the 287 steps of the south tower to enjoy the best views of the city.
2.Charles Bridge (Karluv most)
Charles Bridge is undoubtedly the symbolic emblem of the city of Prague. Built in the fourteenth century under Emperor Charles IV to connect the Lesser Town to the Old Town, it is now taken over by groups of tourists, street musicians, artists of all kinds and art vendors and jewelry.
But never mind! Must visit it's magical to go through the early morning, when the mist rises from the river. Of note, the famous statue of St. John Népo¬mucène, which, according to legend, was thrown off the bridge as a result of its refusal to disclose the confession of Queen Sophia! For a better view, you can climb the observation tower on the side of the Old City.
3.Saint-Nicolas church in Malá Strana (Kostel sv Mikuláše)
Probably from one of the most visited churches because of its stunning Baroque interior (one of the most beautiful Bohemian), the church Saint-Nicolas is on all the lists of things to do in Prague.
Three generations of architects (including the famous Dientzenhofer father and son) have contributed to the building of this architectural gem. The trompe l'oeil fresco by Johann Kracker that decorates the ceiling, is the largest in Europe and is alone worth a visit.
4.Prague Astronomical Clock (Pražský orloj)
Built in 1410 by Mikuláš of Kadaň and successively improved since the Prague Astronomical Clock has two dials: the top one shows the time and the position of the zodiac signs, while the bottom one shows the days and month of the year.
Real crowds are gathering at the base when strikes the hour, to scroll through the apostles, animate the skeleton of death and the cock crow.
5.National Theater (Narodni divadlo)
True national pride, this theater erected through two rounds of public subscriptions, is the symbol of the Czech national awakening in the nineteenth century. A procession of 50,000 people has also accompanied the first stones which were used in the construction of its building in 1868.
Today the National Theatre consists of four artistic ensembles: the National Opera, the National Theatre, the National Ballet and nonverbal Laterna Magika theater company. The building itself can be visited with a guide.
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