The Czech Republic's capital is unique with its GOTHIC/RENAISSANCE ARCHITECTURE and BAROQUE BRIDGES. Divided by VLATAVA RIVER, Prague is a beautiful, picturesque city. A good place to enjoy a medieval atmosphere, learn about history, and have great beers.
In the picture above, the DANCING HOUSE, also known as “Fred and Ginger”, the building was inspired by the famous couple FRED ASTAIRE and GINGER ROGERS. On the rooftop, there is a restaurant with a terrace and a 360° view of Prague. Completed in 1996, it symbolizes a dance over the end of totalitarianism.
Designed by FRANK GEHRY, VLADO MILUNIĆ and EVA JIŘIČNÁ.
CHARLES BRIDGE
Built in the 14th century, Charles Bridge connects the OLD CITY to the PRAGUE CASTLE and was the official route of royalty. The bridge is overly decorated, full of details, and has 30 statues of saints.
COMMUNISM MUSEUM
From 1948 until the VELVET REVOLUTION in 1989, the Czech Republic was communist. This museum holds an enlightening exhibition about the history of communism in the country.
Films, objects, sculptures, and photographs show the dictatorial regime, the crimes, and the way of life at that time.
KAFKA MUSEUM
If you are a Kafka reader like me, take a look at the Kafka Museum. The place is modest but shows interesting documents and facts about his life, along with photographs, original letters, diaries, and the first edition of his works.
Opened in 2005, the building is located in the adorable MALÁ STRANA neighborhood, close to the Charles Bridge.
KGB MUSEUM
This small museum was founded by a collector of KGB photographs and objects. There are surprising pieces like the TROTSKY murder weapon and the dead mask of LENIN. It happens often.
OLD TOWN SQUARE AND ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK
In the medieval streets of OLD TOWN SQUARE you will find the ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK. Built in the 15th century, it is the best-preserved medieval clock in the world. The clock was placed on the square in 1410. It shows the twelve apostles in motion according to the hour.
This area of the old town is very fascinating. It is worth strolling through its narrow, charming streets. You will find a great view at the top of the OLD TOWN HALL TOWER.
MEMORIAL TO THE VICTIMS OF COMMUNISM
The sculpture of seven men is a tribute to prisoners from the period of communism. Although the first man looks fine, you can see that the others are injured and missing some parts of their bodies.
At the bottom, you can read: Victims of Communism, 1948–1989:
205,486 people were convicted, 248 were executed, 4,500 died in prison, 327 died during illegal border crossings, and 170,938 people emigrated.
205,486 people were convicted, 248 were executed, 4,500 died in prison, 327 died during illegal border crossings, and 170,938 people emigrated.
