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8 Must-Visit Churches and Cathedrals in Prague

6/1/2017

2 Comments

 
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It’s no secret on why people love Prague. It’s beautiful, majestic and historic. The ancient architecture and tight-knitted alleyways ignites history, making one feel as if they are walking through a Medieval fairy tale. Churches are one of the most visited architectural sites throughout Europe. And Prague has no shortage of churches. Whether you seek intricately painted art, angelic music or history, be sure to visit one, or all, of these churches in Prague.

St. Vitus Cathedral
Located at the Prague Castle, this is one of the most visited churches in the city. The construction took centuries to complete and one will notice the Gothic masterpiece, which is a spiritual symbol of Prague. Construction began in 1344 commissioned by Charles IV and reached its final phase of construction between 1873-1929. This cathedral serves importance as it has coronated the many Czech kings and queens.
III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1, Czechia
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http://www.free-city-guides.com/prague/tyn-church/
Tyn Church
Founded in 1385, Tyn served as the Old Town’s Church. Some claim its history dates further back, but if searching for history, this is one church to visit. The Hussites controlled the church in the early 15th Century. Sadly, this was a period of history where Roman Catholics slaughtered the Hussites, which led to the Jesuits to take control. The Jesuits replaced the Hussites symbol with a figure of Mary nailed between the towers.
If you look closely, the Towers are not symmetrical. One tower, Adam, is larger than the other, Eve. A fire occurred in 1679, which resulted in the Baroque-style of reconstruction. The organ dates back to 1673 and is the oldest in Prague. 
Old Town Square, Old Town, Prague 1, Czech Republic

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pinterest.com
St Nicholas Church on the Market Place
St. Nicholas is a Baroque-style church, and the largest of three St. Nicholas churches in Prague. This is the largest of the Jesuit churches in town. Records date back to 1283 where a former parish one stood ground before the new construction in 1703. From painted vaulted ceilings to grandiose statues, this is one of the most beautiful churches in the city. One interesting fact is that Mozart played on this organ in 1787.
Malostranské nám., 118 00 Praha 1-Malá Strana, Czechia

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http://www.prague.eu/en/object/places/137/vysehrad
Vysehrad Park & St Peter & Paul Church
Seventy years after the construction of Prague castle, the town built this church and fortified trading post. In 1085, orders from Vratislav II, prince of Bohemia’s founding Premyslid dynasty, constructed what the locals called, the “Castle on the Heights.”  The interior is worth exploring and is more detailed than its modest exterior. Many Czech artists, musicians and politicians are buried in the adjacent cemetery.
V Pevnosti 5b, Vysehrad, Prague 2

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http://churchcrawler.blogspot.com/2011/10/st-saviour-sv-salvator-old-town-prague.html
St. Salvator Church Old Town
This won’t be the most colorful church you’ll ever lay your eyes on, but it’s history is fascinating. The 17th Century Church is the largest evangelical church in the city. The church was founded by German Lutherans who laid stones for its foundation in 1611. The church changed owners throughout history, where the Evangelicals purchased the church in 1863. The white interior and exterior boasts a sense of purity amidst these holy walls. Marvel at the detailing, the perfection is divine. 
St. Salvator Church Charles Bridge
Krizovnicke namesti 2, Old Town, Prague 1, Czech Republic
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tripadvisor.com
St Martin in the Wall Church
This tiny and well-preserved Romanesque church dates back to the 1178-1187 during the settlement of the Ujezd. The church was divided into two in the 13th Century during the construction of the Old Town walls. During the 14th-15th Century, the church was reconstructed in Gothic style, which is what you still see today. It occasionally opens for classical music events.
Martinska 8, Old Town, Prague 1, Czech Republic

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tripadvisor.com
Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius
The beautiful interior tricks visitors into thinking that this church is as ancient as the city itself. In fact, this is one of the youngest churches in town. Built between 1854-1863, many are interested in this church due to its World War II connection. In May 1942, two Czech paratroopers were ordered by the government to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich, a Bohemian puppet state’s Nazi overseer. The paratroopers and others who assisted in the plot fled to the crypt of the Orthodox Church of St. Cyril and Methodius. A partisan betrayed the plot, and told Germans, who tried to shoot their way into the crypt and then flush the men out with water. To end the drama, the resistance fighters committed suicide, as there was no other escape besides surrendering to the Nazis. This led to hundreds of innocent people, and the village of Lidice, to lose their lives. The church contains plaques and a timeline of the event.
Resslova 9a, 120 00 Praha 2-Nové Město, Czechia
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http://clementinumconcerts.com/stclement.html
St Clement’s Cathedral
Built between 1711-1715, this Barque-style church replaced a former Gothic church destroyed in the 15th Century. The fine details from the organ loft to the pillars require attention as there are not many places left on the planet that have this type of fine and detailed handwork. It operates as a Greek Orthodox Church and features concerts throughout the year.
Karlova 1, Old Town, Prague 1, Czech Republic

What's your favorite church in Prague? Each one is unique in its history, architecture and design and I recommend seeing as many as possible! 


This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 8 Must Visit Churches in Prague. 
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8 Cultural Bars & Pubs in Prague

1/5/2017

1 Comment

 
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Prague's nightlife is unlike any other city in Europe. There is no shortage of creative, chic and shit-hole bars scattered throughout the city. Whether you crave Czech beer or absynthe, you're in for a wild night. That is just how things roll in Prague. 

But, why not go for something more cultural? Culture means something different to every traveler, but in Prague, it's all about the beer. Czech beer is as sacred as pure osmosis water, it's the finest of the fine and without it, the nightlife would not be as interesting.  

If you want a little culture or class to go with your beer, look no further than these eight bars and pubs.
 
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Provaznice
This restaurant/bar is my favorite in Prague. It's cheap, it's where the locals go and they have the zodiac painted on their wall. The menu is vegetarian friendly and I recommend the garlic soup. I also call this the Wooden Boobs Bar because on the wall is a wooden statue of a woman. Every now and then a jolly young jock takes his bands to a nice squeeze while his buddy captures an image with his Iphone. My husband discovered this place years ago thanks to local tour guide Martina, who offers Trabant and beer tours. She'll take you to all the historic hotspots and taste test czech beer from the finest pubs in Prague. 

John Lennon Pub

For a little slice of British heaven, be sure to visit the beloved John Lennon Pub. The interior fuses the best of historical "underground" exposed brick walls plastered with Lennon images and records. Be sure to ring mum in the red telephone booth to let her know that you'll be home late. Pretty much anytime that is not winter, enjoy the pub's wide selection of rum in the Romantic Garden. This bar/restaurant is a place that fuses old-world charm and pop culture. The pub is nearby the Lennon Wall. 
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Anonymous
If you love V for Vendetta (or men who hide behind masks) be sure to visit Anonymous. Three souls operate the bar - V for Vendetta, the story of 1605 Gunpowder, Treason & Plot and you guessed it, Anonymous. It's quirky, cultural and expensive to say the least, but at least there's plenty of space and nice-looking bartender biceps to stare at. 
Buddha Bar - Prague
The Buddha Bar is a global restaurant and bar that prides itself on its world-renowned Buddha Bar music CD's. Explore the zen life in one of Prague's most chic restaurant/bar establishments. Drinks are pricy, and the staff looks like they should be on the front cover of GQ magazine. The upstairs bar overlooks a balcony of lamps that hover above an oversized Buddha. Live DJ's play deep house and lounge tracks throughout the week and during weekend brunch. The BB attracts a more mature crowd. This is a great place to pregame before the hardcore dance clubs. 
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U Fleku
Beer lovers unite under one roof to savor the best of czech beer and food. Located in the heart of Prague, U Fleku  brewery and restaurant resides in one of the most historic areas of Prague. In fact, the ir brewing roots date back to 1499. It has a similar Munich-vibe where guests enjoy their brews at long wooden tables. Along with the local beer, enjoy czech music and the musical cabernet every Friday night. 

Black Angel's
This underground hotel bar is like stepping back into a medieval castle. I don't remember much at this point in the evening besides the amazing ceilings that look like an underground cave. This is a place for the fancy, but feature local options like absythne. In fact, the menu prices are so scary expensive I don't think I even drank here, but just checked out the cool vibes. And its beyond cool, it's an award-winning bar. 

Cafe-Bar Propaganda
This bar is one of the most favorites among backpackers. And once you look at the menu, you'll understand why, beer is cheaper than apple juice. Imagine that!? With tons of good press, Propaganda must be doing something right (besides just offering free wi-fi) as the bar is always busy. The decor is nothing special but the atmosphere is cool considering you hear a mix of native and foreign tongue.

TÝNSKÁ BAR AND BOOKS
​Similar to the Buddha Bar, this book and bar joint is an international chain that originates in New York City. This cocktail and whisky bar is not a place to show up in your track suit or with feet decorated in a pair of Chuck's. For a stiff price, guests enjoy jazz, burlesque shows and some of most unique cocktails in the CR. If you're looking for something "healthy" get a green thumb with the "Beet & Peat" cocktail, which includes beet and ginger shrub, ginger liquor and fresh lemon. The only thing you won't be doing is reading books thanks to the ultra dim lights. 

What's your favorite bar in Prague? 


This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 8 Cultural Bars & Pubs in Prague. 
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8 Unique Nightlife Spots for Music & Dancing in the Heart of Prague (Praha 1 District)

1/2/2017

5 Comments

 
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Prague, like New York City, is a place that never sleeps. During the day, visitors admire medieval architecutre and museums, but once the sun sets, Prague transforms into one of the most active nightlife cities in Europe. From chic bars to hole in the wall night clubs, Prague offers something for every budget. Some clubs are open seven days per week where others operate Thursday through the weekend. 

Prague is a big city, and with over 400+ clubs in the surrounding area, here are ___ of the most notable nightlife spots in central Prague. 
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Buddha Bar - Prague
The Buddha Bar is a world-wide restaurant and bar that prides itself on its world-renowned Buddha Bar music CD's. Explore the zen life in one of Prague's most chic restaurant/bar establishments. Drinks are pricy, and the staff looks like they should be on the front cover of GQ magazine. The upstairs bar overlooks a balcony of lamps that hover above an oversized Buddha. Live DJ's play deep house and lounge tracks throughout the week and during weekend brunch. The BB attracts a more mature crowd. This is a great place to pregame before the hardcore dance clubs. 
Jakubská 8, Praha 1

Karlovy Lazne Club
Karlovy claims that it is the largest club in the EU. Once you enter its mysterious doors, you have five floor options to choose from. Each area features a different tone and atmosphere. Some floors play mainstream / hip-hop, where other floors play dance music. If you're not into dancing, find the 5th level chillout floor where you can sit cafe style at tables or on pillows atop of plush rugs. Ques are long and the crowd is younger. Many pub crawls dump their pack of drunken souls here. The club is near Charles Bridge. 
Smetanovo nabrezi 198/1, Old Town, Prague 1

Roxy
Roxy often features popular European headliner DJ's such as Jooris Voorn and other bigwig EU spindoctors. There is a small chillout zone chocked full of white leather couches. Walk down the stairs to a wide-open dance floor that overlooks the DJ booth and an audio-visual screen in the backdrop. Check the schedule to see what type of music will be featured for the night, though it mostly plays electronic.
Dlouhá 33, Prague 1

Chapeu Rouge
Bar, dance club and underground get-togethers - the CR is a one-stop nightlife shop. The deeper you go, the darker the lights and the music. It's quirky, but not fancy. It's a place to sport your dancing shoes and skinny jeans to the vibration of the music. The entry level is the bar, the middle level is a dance club and the underground level is part bar / underground dance club. The underground level gets smoky and you may occassionally see a bag of drugs, but as long as you have your head on straight, it's a fun time. 

Jakubská 647 Prague 1-Old Town

Radost FX
This club features more mainstream music like rap, hip-hop and R&B. The club attracts a mix of students, international travelers and locals alike. This decent-sized club features a chillout zone for those to rest their dancing feet. **This is located in Praha 2 but added this in since its a popular spot.**

Bělehradská 120 120 00 Prague 2

Double Trouble
Double Trouble is the right choice for a wild night on a cheap budget. This two-level bar/club establishment is nothing fancy. It's practical decor inspires the basics of nightlife - getting drunk and dancing. Some local bar crawls pit stop here for a cheap shot and a dance. 

Melantrichova 17, Praha 1

M1 Lounge
Open 7 days per week with 7 different DJ's and 7 different nighly parties, M1 is a place for the lucky at heart. M1 prides itself as being the only "ultra lounge" in Prague. The sleek and chic decor attracts jet-setter wanna-bes to chill in an "art-deco" leather couch with a cocktail in hand. The music ranges from house to hip hop.  
​Masna 1, Prague 1, Czech Republic

Atelier
Atelier is a place to "chill inn." The Chill Inn zone features pool table, food menus and even a swanky buddha. The prices are fair and even have a variety of nonalcoholic options such as coffees, teas and alcohol-free beer. If your aiming for VIP status, book one of the tables behind the plush-satin red straps. The club/bar contains a handful of resident DJ's and loyal locals. And if you're anything like the Big Lebowski, check out the rugs, it really ties the room together. 
Rybná 16, Praha 1

What's your favorite spot in Prague?


This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 8 Unique Nightlife Spots for Music and Dancing in Prague (Praha 1). 

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8 Historical Sites You Must See in Prague

11/28/2016

0 Comments

 
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Prague or "Praha" is the Czech Republic's most beloved capital city. Situated in the northwest, visitors easily make way from nearby larger cities such as Berlin and Warsaw. 

Prague is one of the most historic European capital cities. This medieval city flourishes with Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque era architecture alongside with secretive, narrow pathways that meander to remote courtyards and off-the-beaten-path streets. 

Those who visit Prague are rarely disappointed. Between architectural beauties and fairy tale-like streets, these are some of the best historic sites to see and visit while in Prague. 

Lennon Wall
There's more to Prague than what meets the eye. In "recent" history, 1988 to be exact, the Lennon Wall served as a source of irritation to the communist party. Young Czechs wrote grieving messages on the wall, all the way to the Charles Bridge. This led to a clash between the police and protestors. The movement was described as "Lennonism" Communism banned western pop songs, but specifically, The Beatles as Lennon's lyrics praised freedom, something that did not exist in the East. Today, the wall continues to change, mainly with Beatle quotes, images and logos. Look for the wall in Mala Strana, near the French Embassy. 
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Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock
The 15th Century astronomical clock, and the precession of the Twelve Apostles, is one of the most popular spots in Prague. On the hour, when the clock strikes, Christ marches out, followed by the 12 Apostles and a defiant Turk. The hall was built in 1338 and in 1865, Josef Manes added the 12 medallions alongside with the 12 zodiac signs. There are three circles on the dial that shows different times such as the the outer circle with Schwabacher numerals for the Old Czech Time, the circle with Roman numbers signifies the Central European Time and the inner circle with Arabic numerals for “Babylonian Time.” The little star signifies the sidereal time. 
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Golden Lane
Do you want to know what life was like hundreds of years ago? If so, visit Golden Lane  (Zlata Ulicka) in the complex of Prague Castle to see doorways that stand at the height of your chest. Constructed in the 15th Century, only 14 houses remained after 1657. Legend has it that Golden Lane got its name from the alchemists who lived on the street during Rudolf II's reign who "turned metal into gold." After an explosion, Uhle was found dead with a yellow stone in his hand (gold). To this date, no one knows how he got gold into his home. Notable historic residents include writer, Franz Kafka (house 22) and Prague Prophetess, Madame de Thebes. Unfortunately, the gestapo killed Madame as she predicted the end of the Nazism. 

Charles Bridge
This stunning old bridge is a place where artists and artistry unite. From handmade necklaces to cityscape paintings, the Charles Bridge is the perfect spot for a romantic walk or an affordable art piece. Busy at all times of day, this bridge crosses the Vltava River and connects Old Town to Lesser Town. In 1357, The Roman Emperor and Czech King Charles IV commissioned the bridge. It is said that the constructor, Petr Parler mixed egg yolks in the mortar to strengthen its consistency. Baroque statues tower alongside the edges. These are duplicates and many originals are in the Lapidarium. The bridge is a must-see at night. Nothing beats the "eeriness" than fog accompanied by a full moon. 
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Old Town Square & X Marks the Spot
"Busy but beautiful," claims many tourists. The square is adjacent to the Astronomical Clock. While blinded by bustling cafes, keep your head down to notice "X" marks on the ground. This signifies the "place of death" where many witches were hung during the Witch Trial era. Cafes here are pricier, but are well-worth it for the atmosphere. ​
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St Vitus Cathedral
When you look at Prague's skyline, this cathedral towers the skyline. Charles Iv commissioned construction  in 1344 over top the 10th Century rotunda. It took near six centuries to complete and most consider this cathedral the most important building in Prague. Entry is free, but the tour is an additional fee. You can also purchase a castle tour and Prague Historic Building Ticket Bundle. 
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Tyn Church
Located in Old Town, Tyn was founded in 1385 as the Old Town's main church. The high-Gothic exterior contains twin towers, but boasts a Baroque interior. This church certainly has it's own book of history. A fire caused damaged in 1679, resulted in the Baroque redesign, but luckily it did not harm the 1673 organ that still stands today (and the oldest organ in Prague). If you look closely, the Towers are not symmetrical. One tower, Adam, is larger than the other, Eve. Today, the church hosts Roman Catholic ceremonies.

Vinarna Certovka
This is the most narrow passageway in Prague. It's so narrow, the city installed a streetlight. The width measures 19.6 inches and is an Instagram-worthy location. Be sure to hold in your gut!

​ 
What's your favorite site or landmark in Prague?

This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 8 Historical Sites You Must See in Prague. .  

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    Elizabeth Rae Kovar is a Fitness Trainer, Author of Finding Om, Presenter, Yogi, Vegan & lover of the World. View her portfolio at www.elizabethkovar.comor health-based blog at mindbodysoul-food.com

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