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The Charles Bridge, a renowned symbol of Prague, commenced its construction on July 9, 1357, at precisely 5:31 AM. This timing was no mere coincidence but based on the belief of Charles IV, the Roman Emperor, in the powers of numerology and astrology. His choice of the specific date and time, forming a palindrome, was thought to endow the bridge with added strength. Whether this belief held true, or whether the rumored mixtures of eggs, wine, or milk into the foundations contributed to durability, remains one of the structure's intriguing mysteries.

Spanning the Vltava River and stretching 516 meters long, nearly 10 meters wide, and supported by 16 arches protected by ice guards, the Charles Bridge served as the vital link between the Old Town, Prague Castle, and surrounding areas until 1841. Witnessing a surge in traffic during the early 20th century, it eventually transitioned to pedestrian-only access in 1978.

Adding a unique artistic dimension to the bridge are thirty Baroque statues, installed between the late 17th century and 1928, seamlessly blending with the underlying Gothic architecture. While strolling toward Lesser Town ("Mal谩 Strana"), take a moment to appreciate these statues up close. Notable among them is the bronze crucifix, the oldest dating back to the mid-17th century, and the striking depiction of Saint Francis Xavier converting four pagan princes鈥攁n Indian, Moor, Chinese, and Tartar鈥攁 masterpiece of Baroque sculpture. Another significant figure is the eighth on the right, Saint John of Nepomuk, associated with a legendary tale of martyrdom on the bridge. Tradition holds that touching his statue brings good fortune or, in some renditions, ensures a return visit to Prague.

Tips:
For a more leisurely experience, visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.

Heading over to Kampa, the largest of the Vltava's islands, sounds like the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Who needs to deal with crowds when you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of caf茅s, old mills, and a serene riverside park?

As you make your way to the island, be sure to take in the scenic views of Prague's "Little Venice" 鈥� Devil's Stream ("膶ertovka") 鈥� separating the island from the left bank. It's quite a charming touch, reminiscent of a time when water powered millwheels until they decided to retire in 1936. And let's not forget the island's illustrious past as the city's primary washhouse area, a legacy celebrated by the church of Saint John-the-Baptist at the Cleaners.

Interestingly, it wasn't until the 16th and 17th centuries that the Nostitz family got around to sprucing up the northern half of the island, leaving the southern half to remain gloriously untouched. Today, you can enjoy the southern half as a public park, complete with picturesque riverside views of the Old Town.

Lastly, you might want to take a stroll through the oval main square, Na Kamp臎, once bustling with a pottery market and now adorned with dainty acacia trees and graced by the grand presence of Charles Bridge, linked by a double flight of steps.

Tip:
Keep an eye out for the high-water marks from the unforgettable flood of 2002 that left its indelible mark on this quaint paradise - nothing quite like a historical reminder of nature's might, wouldn't you agree?

Despite never setting foot in Czechoslovakia, John Lennon's messages of peace managed to penetrate the iron curtain and stir the souls of its residents. Enter the John Lennon Wall, a posthumous shrine born from the ashes of Lennon's untimely demise in 1980. An anonymous artist boldly defied Communist rule by adorning the wall with Beatles lyrics and the iconic image of the singer himself. Naturally, such subversive acts were deemed criminal by the powers that be.

The wall became a perpetual battleground, as authorities futilely attempted to erase the messages of dissent only to find them springing back to life like weeds in a concrete garden. Czech students took to the wall in 1988 to air their grievances, inciting clashes with the very security forces tasked with silencing their voices. Ironically, that movement was labeled "Lennonism," only to disparage its members as drunken lunatics and pawns of Western propaganda.

Fast forward to 2014, when a group of local art students whitewashed the wall, proclaiming the "Wall Is Over" and inviting the current generation to fill the void with their own musings. Prague's artistic community eagerly rose to the challenge, transforming the wall into a canvas of expression once more. The Beatles imagery was restored in 2019, a nod to the Velvet Revolution's anniversary.

Under the watchful eye of new regulations, spray painting on the wall is strictly forbidden. Instead, individuals are encouraged to express their freedom and love using more delicate mediums like pencils, markers, or chalk.

Situated just a hop, skip, and a jump south and a tad west of the Charles Bridge, Velkop艡evorsk茅 Square is graced by the presence of the Grand Prior's Palace, hailed as one of the cr猫me de la cr猫me baroque structures in the area. While it's now under the stewardship of the Embassy of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta鈥攜es, the modern-day descendants of the valiant Knights of Malta鈥攕adly, it remains off-limits to us common folk. However, you'll discover a cozy caf茅 and a restaurant, where you can dine amid opulent Baroque vaults that harken back to a bygone era. Keep an eye out for pockets of early Baroque or Renaissance vaulting preserved in certain corners, adding a dash of historical charm to the ambiance.

Nestled near the palace's outer walls stands the venerable Beethoven sycamore, a living testament to Prague's storied past. Legend has it that the musical maestro Ludwig van Beethoven once sought solace under its leafy canopy during his sojourn to Prague in 1796.

Across the way, the eye-catching orange-and-white stucco fa莽ade of the Buquoy Palace catches the eye, a dazzling display of architectural prowess dating back to 1719, courtesy of Giovanni Santini. Today, it plays host to the French Embassy.

And who could forget the nearby John Lennon Peace Wall, a veritable shrine to youthful rebellion and artistic expression? Once a bastion of political dissent adorned with striking slogans and a larger-than-life likeness of the iconic Beatle, the wall bore the brunt of countless whitewashing efforts by the powers-that-be during the communist regime. Nowadays, while Lennon's serene visage may be hidden beneath layers of ever-changing graffiti, the spirit of freedom and creativity continues to flourish, making it a must-see destination for modern-day pilgrims of peace and harmony.

In a curious turn of events, the Church of Our Lady Victorious, with its unassuming fa莽ade reminiscent of its humble beginnings as a German Protestant church, hosts an outrageously kitschy wax figure of the infant Jesus, depicted as a precocious 3-year-old perched regally in a glass case. Revered for its purported miraculous abilities, this divine doll, affectionately dubbed the Bambino di Praga (or Infant Jesus of Prague), has garnered worldwide pilgrimage status, drawing throngs of visitors鈥攑rimarily devout Catholics hailing from the sunny shores of southern Europe and Poland. Talk about making a splash in the religious artifact scene!

Originally imported from Spain in the 16th century, the "bambino" boasts an extensive wardrobe that would put even the most fashion-forward diva to shame - with nearly a hundred lavish outfits to its name, meticulously curated and regularly changed by the industrious Carmelite nuns. For those intrigued by the miniature deity's sartorial splendor, a minuscule museum awaits atop a spiral staircase in the south aisle, offering a glimpse of his luxurious velvet and satin ensembles, generously gifted from every corner of the globe.

For devout disciples seeking a piece of the divine to call their own, fear not! Replicas of the illustrious statue and a myriad of other religious paraphernalia are conveniently available for purchase at the souvenir shop, discreetly tucked away behind the main altar.

And yes, admission is miraculously free.

Commanding the skyline of Lesser Town ("Mal谩 Strana") is this Baroque masterpiece distinguished by its colossal green dome and tower, serving as one of Prague's most recognizable landmarks along the left bank of the Vltava River. Constructed by the Jesuits in the early 18th century, it represented their most ambitious endeavor in Bohemia, symbolizing their significant influence over the region. The juxtaposition of the broad, robust dome with the slender bell tower adds to the architectural allure that defines Prague's skyline.

Upon entering, the vast pink-and-green interior overwhelms the senses. Every corner bursts with vitality, drawing attention to the dramatic statues, vibrant frescoes, and gleaming faux-marble pillars. The impressive fresco in the nave portrays various miraculous acts attributed to Saint Nicholas, highlighting the grandeur of the Baroque era. However, it is the dome at the church's eastern end that truly captivates, owing to its remarkable height. Gazing upward, one encounters four imposing Church Fathers, depicted with stern expressions, with one wielding a gilded thunderbolt, leaving no doubt about the gravity of the Jesuit message.

Tip:
Ascending the tower (admission fee required) in summer offers a fine perspective overlooking Lesser Town and the iconic Charles Bridge.

Behold the grandeur of this 17th-century palace, Prague's very first foray into Baroque architecture. Its high-walled gardens and opulent vaulted Renaissance 'sala terrena' (room opening onto a garden) simply scream elegance. As you wander through the meticulously manicured paths, you'll encounter a plethora of fountains and statues, each depicting classical mythological figures or valiant warriors triumphing over various beasts. Further along, prepare to have your mind blown by the "Grotto," a colossal dripstone wall adorned with an array of imaginative rock formations, including whimsical faces and hidden animals nestled within the charcoal-colored landscape. And let's not forget the tantalizing promise of "illusory hints of secret corridors" 鈥� because who doesn't love a good optical illusion?

Albrecht von Wallenstein, the one-time owner of this palace and gardens, catapulted into military stardom in 1622 when Emperor Ferdinand II of Austria decided he needed saving from the pesky Swedes and Protestants during the Thirty Years' War. Wallenstein, fueled by his marriage-induced riches, generously offered to raise and personally lead an army of 20,000 men 鈥� at his own expense, of course. In return, the Emperor showered him with confiscated lands and titles, including this vast area upon which our magnificent palace now stands. After razing two dozen houses, a brick factory, and three gardens, Wallenstein set to work on constructing something that would rival even the mighty Prague Castle. Nowadays, much of this regal abode serves as the Czech Senate's meeting chamber and offices. Inside, the Knight's Hall is adorned with a fresco featuring Wallenstein himself as the formidable Roman God of War, Mars, riding triumphantly in his chariot. And let's not overlook the palace's former riding school, now transformed into a spot for art exhibitions.

Tips:
Just remember, you can only enter the palace on weekends, while the gardens are open daily. Keep your eyes peeled for those discreetly marked entrances - wouldn't want to miss out on the grandeur enclosed within those towering walls. And if you happen to swing by in the summer, be sure to catch one of the garden's lively concerts or theatrical performances.

Positioned at the eastern edge of the Royal Garden, north of Prague Castle, the Royal Summer Palace, also known as the Belvedere, stands as a testament to Renaissance elegance, garnering recognition as one of the most splendid structures of its kind north of the Alps. Crafted by Italian architects in the mid-1500s at the behest of Ferdinand I for his consort Queen Anne, its distinctive copper roof, reminiscent of an upturned boat's keel, gracefully crowns the ground floor's arcades. Adorning the arches between the thirty-six columns of the ornate arcade are 114 reliefs portraying scenes from royal hunts, battles, and tales from Greek and Roman mythology, with one tender relief capturing Ferdinand I presenting a flower to his beloved queen.

Originally serving as an observatory due to its secluded locale, the palace's first floor boasts a remarkable fresco chronicling pivotal moments in Czech history. While the ground floor once housed drawing rooms and ballrooms, it now serves as a venue for temporary exhibitions of creative art and artistic crafts.

Adjacent to the summer palace lies the geometrically arranged Renaissance-style 'giardinetto' (little garden), featuring another masterpiece: the Singing Fountain. Designed by Italians and crafted by Czech artisans, this fountain emanates a melodic resonance from the cascading water. To fully immerse oneself in its tranquil ambiance and appreciate its serenading melody, visitors are encouraged to crouch beside the fountain basin, allowing their imagination to be captivated by its harmonious song.

Nestled within the heart of the Prague Castle complex lies George Square, which hosts the namesake basilica 鈥� the oldest surviving church building in Prague! Established by Prince Vratislav in 921, its striking red-and-cream baroque facade contrasts sharply with its Romanesque interior, characterized by its austere yet monumental design. Within the main nave rest the tombs of members of the P艡emyslid dynasty, the first ruling dynasty of Czechia, while a unique two-sided stairwell leads to the high altar. Particularly noteworthy is the painted decoration on the apse and the ceiling.

In the chapel's center lies a large stone coffin containing Boleslav I, also known as Boleslav the Cruel, with the chapel of Saint Ludmila, grandmother of Boleslav and Wenceslas, situated to the right of the central staircases. Depictions of Ludmila often feature a scarf or veil around her neck, symbolizing her alleged death by strangulation, rumored to have been orchestrated by her daughter-in-law Drahomira. Ludmila played a crucial role in raising Wenceslas as a Christian, while Drahomira remained loyal to Bohemia's pagan beliefs, reflecting a recurring theme of Czech resistance against the dominance of a single religion.

Thanks to its exceptional acoustics, the basilica hosts classical music concerts throughout the year, offering a captivating experience even for those not well-versed in classical music. Adjacent stands the unassuming Convent of Saint George, founded in 973 by Boleslav II, now serving as a branch of the National Gallery, showcasing a compelling collection of Renaissance and baroque artworks.

Perched within the precincts of Prague Castle, overlooking the Vltava River and the cityscape, Saint Vitus Cathedral is hailed as a pinnacle of Gothic architecture, symbolizing the essence of Bohemian national identity for many. Housing the tombs of numerous Holy Roman Emperors and Bohemian kings, its historical significance is palpable. Yet, beyond its rich past, the cathedral's striking exterior, grand nave, and exquisite stained-glass windows unite to evoke a profound sense of beauty and reverence.

The exterior is distinguished by the imposing Great Tower, crowned with a baroque dome and housing Sigismund 鈥� the largest bell in Bohemia, forged in the mid-16th century and weighing over 33,000 pounds. Adjacent to the tower lies the cathedral's southern entrance, known as the Golden Gate, decorated with a remarkable Venetian-glass mosaic depicting the Last Judgment.

Stepping inside, one is immediately awed by the soaring height of the nave, while the luminous stained-glass windows on the left impart a transcendent aura. Noteworthy among these is the third window, a masterpiece by the Art Nouveau maestro Alfons Mucha, narrating the entire history of Christianity in the Czech lands through vibrant imagery and profound symbolism. Other captivating features include the wooden panorama of Prague, the opulent Tomb of Saint John of Nepomuk crafted in solid silver, and an array of decorative elements ranging from the intricate to the whimsical.

Tips:
While entry to the exterior and partial interior is free, a ticket is required for a comprehensive tour, available as part of Prague Castle's visit options. Additionally, a separate fee allows access to the tower, offering amazing views albeit via a rather narrow ascent.

The term "Prague Castle" might lead you to envision a single grandiose structure with towering turrets and regal chambers; yet, it's actually a sprawling fortified enclave comprising government edifices, churches, museums, historical courtyards, stunning gardens, and the enchanting Golden Lane, where one of the cottages was once inhabited by Kafka. Spanning roughly 70,000 square meters (over 17 acres), this complex holds the Guinness Record as the largest castle complex globally. Its history spans centuries of royal dynasties.

Established around 880 by Duke Bo艡ivoj I and his wife Ludmila, the Castle has hosted notable residents such as their grandson Wenceslas I, members of the Habsburg family, and Thomas Garrigue Masaryk, the first president of Czechoslovakia in 1918. Today, it serves as the residence of the Czech president, marked by the national flag flying when the president is in town. Outside the main Matthias Gates, stone-faced castle guards perform a ceremonial "Changing of the Guards" at noon, with smaller versions held hourly from 7 AM onwards.

The architectural diversity, ranging from the dazzling Gothic-Renaissance-Baroque fusion of the Saint Vitus Cathedral to the Baroque exterior and Romanesque interior of Saint George's Basilica, reflect an ongoing evolution spanning from 880 to the early 1900s. Modern elements, attributed to Slovenian architect Josip Ple膷nik's 20th-century contributions, can also be spotted throughout the grounds.

Tips:
Allocate at least 3-5 hours for a comprehensive exploration of the Castle complex. The gardens are open to the public free of charge, allowing ample time for leisurely enjoyment. Since there are multiple ticket booths, if the main line appears lengthy, consider checking alternative lines within the courtyard.

A discreet entrance on bustling Karmelitsk谩 Street leads to a captivating retreat boasting stunning views of Mal谩 Strana. The unassuming door opens to the cozy courtyard of Vrtba Palace, flanked by two Renaissance wings. The left wing dates back to 1575, while the right one was erected in 1591. Originally owned by a Bohemian noble later executed by the Habsburgs, the latter wing was acquired by Count Sezima of Vrtba, who transformed it into a late-Renaissance palace by merging it with the adjacent property.

A century later, the enchanting Vrtba Garden was born, ascending in five tiers behind the courtyard. Featuring statues and formal terraces, it culminates in a pavilion embellished with seashell motifs at the summit鈥攁 sought-after venue for weddings, receptions, and occasional concerts. Notably, the garden's upper section is adjacent to the U.S. Embassy's property, often marked by the sight of the American flag.

The courtyard entrance is marked by the imposing stone figure of Atlas, crafted by Mathias Braun, a prominent figure among Czech baroque sculptors, whose workshop produced many of the mythological statues adorning the palace grounds.

Following the grand unveiling of the Eiffel Tower in Paris in 1889, the Czech Tourist Club felt a void in the Prague skyline. In a remarkable feat of construction, the Pet艡铆n Lookout Tower was erected for the General Land Centennial Exhibition in 1891 in just four months, serving as a homage to its French counterpart. Although standing at a modest 60 meters in height, the tower is situated on a hilltop, surpassing the Eiffel Tower in elevation. Notably, it deviates from the French original with its octagonal, rather than square, cross-section.

Initially equipped with a lift for six, powered first by gas and later electricity, the tower underwent alterations in 1953 to accommodate a television broadcasting antenna, leading to the removal of the lift. Subsequent renovations from 1999 to 2002 saw the installation of a new lift designed for elderly and disabled visitors. For others, ascending the 299 steps to the observation deck offers one of the city's most spectacular viewpoints, with separate staircases designated for ascending and descending.

Why You Should Visit:
Excellent opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque parklands and to marvel at the panoramas of Prague's skyline.

Tip:
The most convenient way to reach the tower is via an uphill funicular ride from the Pet艡铆n station nestled within the park, adjacent to the 脷jezd tram stop. Ensure compliance with the standard regulations for Prague's public transport鈥攙alidating your ticket before boarding. Alternatively, a leisurely walk through the park from the hilltop offers a cost-effective alternative.