Prague through the Eyes of the Newcomer

 The capital of the Czech Republic and in the past of the Holy Roman Empire, Prague is a city that lives up to its nickname as the Golden City.  Indeed, many golden opportunities for exploration, discovery and delights can be found in Prague, whether you set out to do so or just follow where your feet takes you.

To make exploration of Prague easier on the newcomer, it is best to explore the city one part at a time.  This way, you can discover its riches almost like an unfolding flower right before your very eyes.  Of course, booking a holiday apartment online for a few days is essential, too, as the tourist attractions in Prague are too many to explore in just a day. 

Prague Old Town

Because Prague was the least damaged city in Europe during the Second World War, it has retained its old buildings.  As such, all the styles of architecture in the city from the Baroque to the Renaissance as well as the more modern movements of Cubist, Gothic and Neo-Classical have been preserved for the appreciation of later generations, tourists and locals alike.

The oldest part of Prague is, of course, the Old Town, which was mentioned as far back as 1091 in the annals of Czech history.  Its center has always been the Old Town Square that is, in turn, dominated by the impressive sights of the Town Hall and the Church of Our Lady of Tyn.  Other notable attractions in the Old Town are the Powder Gate, the many churches like the Church of St. James, Church of St. Gall and Church of St. Martin in the Wall, the numerous squares such as the Mariánské Square and the Knights of the Cross Square as well as the palaces like Kinský Palace and Palace of the Lords of Kunštát. 

Prague New Town

Despite its name, the New Town is not as new as one would think.  It was originally built in 1348 although its very modern appearance is attributed to the redevelopments beginning in the 19^th century. 

Although there are very modern buildings in the area such as the National Theater and the National Museum, some old structures still remain.  Think of the Church of Our Lady of the Snows, the Slavonic Monastery and the Franciscan Garden, to mention a few. 

Prague Lesser Town

When you want to see a Prague that has suffered very little from the modernization of the city, then the Lesser Town is the place to go. It is situated below the famous Prague Castle and boasts of attractions like the Nerudova Street, Lesser Town Square and the Wallenstein Palace as well as one of the most famous landmark of Prague - Charles Bridge.

Prague Castle and Hradcany

Now, for the newcomer wishing to see the most visited sights in Prague, the Prague Castle is the best place to do so.  Considered as the world's largest ancient castle, it is a very imposing structure bearing the marks of the many rulers who have added to the original structure, each one preferring one style over his predecessor. 

Amongst the many attractions in it are the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the Spanish Hall  and the Old Royal Palace, to name a few of the museums, palaces and houses within the castle.  Better reserve more than 2 days just exploring the area. 

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