Prague Attractions
Prague Castle is the largest and most imposing of all the attractions in the city. Indeed, it is the largest medieval castle complex in Europe. The castle is believed to have been founded in the late 9th century by Prince Borivoj. The original wooden structure was later fortified with a rampart constructed from stone and clay, together with a moat. The Church of the Virgin Mary is the earliest stone building on the site and was followed, in the early part of the 10th century, by the Churches of St. George and St. Vitus. Prague Castle today is the home to the President of the Czech Republic. The Changing of the Guard, accompanied at noon by a fanfare of trumpets, takes place every hour before the front gates of Prague Castle. The Old Town Square ("Staromestske Namesti"), situated between Wenceslas Square and the Charles Bridge, was long the commercial heart of Prague with origins dating back to the 10th century. Many of the colourful Baroque facades are, in fact, later additions to houses that date from medieval times. |
 Dawn and Prague skyline behind Charles Bridge |
The town hall houses perhaps the most famous attraction in the Old Town Square, the so-called, "Astronomical" Clock. The dial of the 14th century clock shows three independent movements for the Sun, Moon and stars, continually providing a full range of astronomical data. Traditional Christmas markets also take place in the Old Town Square.
Popular excursions from the city of Prgaue itself include that to the town of Terezin, 35 miles to the northwest. Terezin, or "Theresianstadt" as it was to known to the Germans, was the site of an infamous Nazi concentration camp in which over 35,000 Jews lost their lives during World War II. The site includes the Memorial of National Martyrdom; the Small Fortress; and the Museum.
On a lighter note, Nizbor, situated less than 20 miles to the southeast of Prague, offers visitors the opportunity to sample two Czech products -- glassware and beer. The Nizbor Glass Factory dates back to the 19th century and visitors can see handmade glassware in all stages of production. Glass is also available to buy at discounted prices. Pilsner Urquell offers a visit to its brewery and – for those still standing – a museum pertaining to its 150 year history.
Prague Rental Accommodation
As you might expect of such a popular, all-year-round tourist destination, rental accommodation in and around Prague is plentiful and varied. Visitors may choose, for example, one, two, three or more bedroom apartments in the locality of the Old Town or in prestigious central locations such as Vinohrady or Bubenec near Prague Castle, in the administrative district of the city. Many apartments feature hardwood, parquet flooring, original wooden doors and are equipped with all modern amenities including air conditioning; satellite television; and fully equipped kitchens. More spacious accommodation may also include a terrace or terraces, complete with outdoor cooking facilities. Civic amenities – shops, restaurants, theatres and so on – are all within easy reach and transport connections by road, underground railway and tram are excellent.
