Prague, Czech Republic
On our arrival, we were taken on a quick walking tour around the hotel area, and then a group of us went out to a nearby restaurant. After a long flight, we don't do too much the first evening. Next day, we toured the Prague Castle, where we saw the changing of the guard before we went into the grounds. The castle sits upon a high hill and offers good views over the city. The grounds aren't as lavish as some, but are large and impressive. The castle complex includes the St. Vitus Cathedral. Prague wasn't destroyed during World War II, so its buildings are mostly intact, some going back to the time of the Holy Roman Empire.
Downhill from the castle grounds lies the Vltava River, and the famous Charles Bridge that crosses it. The bridge contains many statues and crosses along its span such as this one. Many street vendors, artists, and street musicians work the long bridge. At night, the bridge and many of the landmarks along it are lit, which makes for a lovely view. The street leading away from the Charles Bridge is always crowded with tourists peering in the hundreds of shops. The water wheel is a peaceful side to the busy river.
The view from the river up to the castle complex and the St. Vitus Cathedral is wonderful.
St Nicholas Cathedral was an amazing white and gilt and baroque wonder inside.
In the Old Town, or Stare Mesto, there is a huge statue of Jan Huis and the Church of our Lady BeforeTyn. On the opposite side of this square is the 15th century astronomical clock at the Old Town Hall, where every hour Christ and the 12 Apostles appear at the windows, followed by the skeleton of Death. The Powder Tower was a landmark for us, as it was near our hotel.
