Monday, February 16, 2015

On the streets of Prague


Once out of the underground and on the streets of Prague, we were immediately engrossed in and thoroughly fascinated by the city sights.  We visited the Old Town Square located between Wenceslas Square and the Charles Bridge, where we took in the huge Astronomical Clock, the third-oldest still-working clock in the world.   We also studied the statue of Jan Hus, the religious reformer who was burnt at the stake for his religious beliefs.  Twenty-seven crosses mark the pavement in honor of martyrs that were beheaded here. 


From the square, we crossed over on the Charles Bridge to the artsy part of the city then climbed the steps leading up to the Palace.  However, by the time we arrived at the Palace it was closing time and we had no choice but to appreciate its magnificence from the outside.  From up and in front of the Palace gate, we took in the spectacular panorama of the city below.   And once back down and past the artsy section, we ventured into the winding streets of the Old Town, where we explored the nearby church of St. Martin in the Wall.   This beautiful and oldest church built in 1178 was a treat to us, as was St. Francis of Assisi where I found a little respite.

St. Martin in the Wall is an ancient, beautifully preserved church, set among the winding back streets and quaint buildings and close to Wenceslas Square.   The farthest into the church that I was able to get  was the entrance.  Before I could get past the vestibule, I was being asked to buy tickets for a concert taking place that evening— the Chamber Ensemble Musica Praga from the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra was offering music by Mozart, Vivaldi, and Pachelbel, among other famous composers.   It was either buy tickets for the concert, or exit the church quietly. 

Because of time constraints, I passed on the concert.  Nonetheless, I was grateful to at least walk within the entryway of the sacred church and say a quick prayer, while Crissy waited outside on a bench across the church.  Smart girl, that Crissy!

After doing as much sightseeing as the time allowed, we returned to the hotel. 

The next day we were back in the Old Town.  We sauntered into a small café in the art district, where we each ordered a pint of icy-cold Pilsner and shared a hearty sandwich.  The young proprietors of the place delighted in playing pop music for our enjoyment from a laptop connected to a set of small speakers.  Crissy and I appreciated the young men’s efforts to make us feel at home and reciprocated with warm smiles.

from     We finally emerged from the establishment, half-giggly from the pints of delicious Pilsner, feeling no pain whatsoever from all the sightseeing, as we headed to the nearest metro station, and got lost in the dense crowd of weary rush-hour commuters.  

     

Millions of people from all over the world travel to Prague every year, losing themselves in this magical city of bridges, cathedrals, gold-tipped towers, and church domes.   Founded in the later 9th century, Prague soon became the seat of many a Bohemian king.  A popular travel destination that’s been referred to by many as one of Europe’s most charming and beautiful cities, it remains almost undamaged by wars and Communism, and retains a wonderful mixture of cobbled walkways, enclosed and walled courtyards, and countless church spires, all in the shadow of the majestic 9th century Castle that looks eastwardly and sets behind it.   Independent travelers, thirsty for adventure are drawn to it.  A modern vibrant energy infuses the air with music, art, and special events.  Such is the vibe of this gem of a city. 

On the third day, we were back in the center of town to tour the Castle before anything else, then squeeze in a visit to Saint Wenceslas and its local winery.  The restored winery is located in the central part of the grounds, between the buttress wall of the Old Castle stairs and the upper scenic ridgeway.   Legend has it, that it’s the oldest vineyard in all of Bohemia.   It’s reputed that this ‘divine’ vineyard was cultivated by the patron saint himself, opening its doors to visitors to Prague Castle, upon marking its 1,100th anniversary.  The area is exceptional in that it’s well positioned in the center of the city, and preserved in its original, unaltered appearance.  And rightly so, very important for us to visit!

After enjoying a glass of wine each and sharing a cheese platter, we readied to return to our hotel.
This time, however, instead of taking the metro, we opted to walk.   And what a walk it was!   Crissy suggested we foot the entire distance back to the Andel—it was quite the walk and extremely exhilarating at that.   In my book, it was just what the doctor ordered!



























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