WELCOME TO PRAGUE

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city steeped in history, where cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and Baroque facades tell a story of a thousand years. Its charm lies in its diverse layers, from the grandeur of Prague Castle to the romantic allure of the Charles Bridge and the bustling energy of Old Town Square. This central square is a symphony of architectural styles, dominated by the magnificent Týn Church and the intricate Astronomical Clock.

Crossing the Charles Bridge, a pedestrian marvel lined with statues, leads you to the Lesser Town, or Malá Strana. This district, nestled at the foot of the castle, is a world unto itself—a place of quiet, winding streets, Baroque palaces, and picturesque squares. It's home to stunning landmarks like the Church of St. Nicholas and the serene Wallenstein Garden.

Towering over the city, Prague Castle is a sprawling complex that has been the seat of Czech kings for centuries. At its heart lies the awe-inspiring St. Vitus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. From the castle walls, you get a breathtaking panoramic view of the city's red roofs and spires. The magic of Prague is found in these iconic landmarks, but also in its hidden gems—the quiet streets of the Jewish Quarter, the vibrant street art of the Lennon Wall, and the peaceful canals of Kampa Island. It’s a city that invites you to explore, where every corner holds a new story.

A significant part of Prague's captivating narrative is told within the confines of Malá Strana, or the Lesser Town. Nestled at the foot of Prague Castle and extending to the Vltava River, this district is a world unto itself. It's a place of quiet, winding streets, picturesque squares, and exquisite Baroque palaces, many of which now house embassies, government buildings, and boutique hotels. Unlike the more boisterous Old Town, Malá Strana exudes a sense of tranquility and aristocratic grace.

Walking through the Lesser Town is like stepping back in time. The area's main square, Malostranské náměstí, is a hub of activity, but the surrounding side streets reveal hidden courtyards, secret gardens, and charming traditional pubs. The district is home to some of Prague's most stunning architectural gems, including the magnificent Church of St. Nicholas, with its opulent interior and striking green dome. The Wallenstein Garden, a beautifully manicured Baroque garden, offers a peaceful escape with its statues, fountains, and peacocks roaming freely. The district's most famous street, Nerudova, is a steep climb up towards the castle, lined with historic houses adorned with unique and intriguing house signs, a relic from a time before street numbers.

The Lesser Town's character is defined by its history. It was founded in the 13th century and was home to the city's German and Italian communities. It was largely rebuilt in the Baroque style after a devastating fire in the 16th century, which is why its architecture is so distinct. Today, Malá Strana remains a testament to this opulent era, a place where history is not just preserved, but lived. It's a part of Prague that invites slow exploration, a district to be savored, where every turn reveals a new vista of beauty, a quiet cafe, or a hidden historical detail that adds another layer to the city's rich and complex story.

Prague's Old Town, or Staré Město, is the historic heart of the city, a vibrant and bustling district that has served as its core for centuries. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a living museum of architectural wonders, where narrow, winding streets open up into grand squares and hidden courtyards. The district's main artery is the Old Town Square, a magnificent open space that is the centerpiece of Prague's public life. Surrounded by a breathtaking mix of architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque, the square is dominated by two key landmarks. The first is the Church of Our Lady before Týn, whose dramatic twin spires have become a symbol of the city's skyline. The second is the Old Town Hall, famous for its intricate Astronomical Clock. On the hour, a crowd gathers to watch the clock’s mechanical figures, known as "The Walk of the Apostles," perform their age-old procession.

Beyond the square, the Old Town's cobblestone streets are a treasure trove of historical and cultural gems. The Celetná Street, part of the Royal Route, is lined with magnificent old houses and leads directly to the Powder Tower, a striking Gothic gate that once separated the Old Town from the New Town. Just north of the square is the Jewish Quarter, or Josefov, a poignant and historically significant area. It is home to several historic synagogues, including the Old-New Synagogue, one of the oldest in Europe, and the Old Jewish Cemetery, a densely packed and evocative burial ground.

The Old Town is more than just a collection of landmarks; it’s a place of constant energy and discovery. Its streets are filled with traditional pubs, small cafes, and souvenir shops, while street artists and musicians often add to the lively atmosphere. The district’s rich history, from its medieval origins to its role in the Velvet Revolution, is palpable at every turn. It is the perfect place to get lost and simply wander, as each alleyway and hidden passage promises a glimpse into Prague’s past and a new, unforgettable view of the city.