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While most European capitals are worth their weight in Instagram shots, few are as charming or visually appealing as Prague. The architecture there ranges from castles that date centuries back to newer marvel like The Dancing House, which was designed and built in the ’90s. Here are some stunning, famed places to check out next time you’re in the Czech Republic — all worthy of posting to the gram.
1. Old Town Square
Old Town Square offers a glimpse into Prague’s old town district and is the center of medieval architecture. Everywhere you look offers a stunning facade and this cobblestoned hub offers many avenues to explore. With attractions such as the Kinsky Palace, St. Nicholas’ Church and the Astronomical Clock, you’ll definitely keep yourself and your camera busy.
2. Prague Castle
Everybody loves a good castle, right? The Prague Castle complex boasts a mixture between Roman and Century Gothic architecture, ranging from the 9th to the 20th century; it is just too beautiful not to capture. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, it’s the largest ancient castle in the world, so let your camera take you on a journey through architectural history.
3. Charles Bridge
Split the historical difference with a trip to 14th century Charles Bridge, connecting east-Vltava Prague with west-Vltava Prague. Construction began in 1357 under the rule of its namesake, King Charles, but today it is enjoyed and admired by anyone who crosses the Vltava river. Dotted with sculptures and rolling arches against a backdrop of stoic buildings, this is one place you’ll definitely want to snap.
4. St. Vitus Cathedral
Located in the Prague Castle complex of buildings, St. Vitus Cathedral stands as the proud seat of the Archbishop of Prague. The completed edifice took over 600 years to build, so it seems almost crass to spend only a few moments snapping selfies and moving on. If you have time to spare, spend it here; appreciate the details, the symmetry and the care and attention it required to create such a masterpiece.
5. Klementinum Library
Nestled within the Klementinum complex lies the Baroque Library, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Complete with a unique collection of books, fresco murals and rare globes, this landmark is certainly a treasure to behold. Make sure to take several photos while you’re there; you won’t be able to find a bad angle. Oh, and hop across the street to the Prague Municipal Library to check out the book tunnel while you’re on this side of town.
6. Astronomical Clock
If you want to know some timekeeping information other than the time of day, check out the Prague Astronomical Clock. This clock tracks the movement of the celestial bodies in our solar system, including (of course) the sun, moon and planets. If you’d like to learn how to read Prague’s Astronomical Clock before visiting, check out this great reference. However, if you’d rather marvel at its mystical beauty, this is completely okay; this clock is beautiful with or without an understanding of its internal mechanisms.
7. Powder Tower
The Prague Powder Tower is one of the first city gates through which dignitaries and royals would enter the old section of Prague. Today, it stands as a relic of times past; however, it still serves as a route through which the royals pass on coronation day. Its name comes from the fact that it used to serve as a storage tower for gunpowder, but today it is accessible to visitors who wish to explore this district of Prague. Snap some photos of the tower from the ground, then head up to the viewing gallery to take some more photos from a height of 44 meters.
8. The Dancing House
Perhaps one of the most creative and abstract buildings, The Dancing House serves as a modern contrast to the Gothic and Roman style architecture commonly seen in Prague. On the banks of the Vltava River, The Dancing House — nicknamed Fred and Ginger as the pair of buildings looks like a couple dancing — was designed by architects Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic. Look for a restaurant on the seventh floor and even if you’re not eating, it’s worth a trip to snap a picture of the precarious looking facade.
9. Lennon Wall
Located opposite the French Embassy, the graffiti-covered Lennon Wall stands as a tribute to the late John Lennon, who became somewhat of a revolutionary hero for Czech youth in the 1980s. It has been painted over several times; however, police have never been able to eradicate the tribute completely. Today, it still stands as a symbol of peace, unity and courage for visitors and locals alike. Spend some time reading the stories on the wall and take some memories of the ones that resonate with you.
Featured image courtesy of Shutterstock
What are your favorite places to explore in Prague? Let us know in the comments below.
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