Day #185 - Prague, Czech Republic

Overlooking the Vltava River at sunset

Charles Bridge - Looking back into Old Town

Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square

Overlooking the Vltava River toward Prague Castle

14th Century Church of Our Lady of Tyn - Old Town Square

Wednesday, September 15th

My overnight train into Prague went well. I only had 1 roommate in the sleeping quarters. He was a younger guy from Finland. He puts me to shame with his travel history. I learned alot listening to his stories. After high school and a stint in the military, he travelled for a year in Australia (bought a car and drove the country - working when he needed money), spent 3 months in southeast Asia and is just completing a 3 month trip to Europe before he continues with further education.

The train ride went fast. I got about 4-5 hours sleep and arrived into Prague about 7:00am. I've mentioned this long ago, but prior to my journey this year, the only places in Europe that I had been were: a ski trip to Vald'sere (France), airports in Munich, Vienna, and Amsterdam, and a week trip to Prague with my aunt, uncle, and cousin. I remembered my experiences in Prague so fondly, I had to visit the city again.

On January 1, 1993, the former country of Caechoslovakia was split to become the current-day countries of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Remember when I said that I felt that many of the former Communist countries may never become a viable player in the near future, the Czech Republic may be the one big exception. Prague is growing to be one of the most popular destinations in all of Europe. Depending on what source is used, Prague is the 7th most visited city in Europe.

I grabbed a nap once I got to the hotel and headed out to see the city early afternoon. The place is great. I now have many spots upon which I can compare -- I still hold Prague as one of my favorites. I first headed toward the iconic symbol of the city - the Charles Bridge ----- one of the most unique and intersting bridges in the world. It's a pedestrian-only bridge that spans the Vltava River passing through Prague. There are 14 other bridges that span the river - none of which can touch the architecture and history of Charles Bridge. The bridge was commissioned in 1357 by Charles IV - king of Bohemia and Moravia. There are 36 statues of saints that line both sides of the bridge. Looking across one side - you see the Prague Castle perched up on a hill. Looking to the other side, you see the beginnings of the Old Town. Regardless of what time of the day you are visiting, the bridge is filled with tourists and admirers. I have a picture of this bridge in my house (currently in a box in storage) - a symbol of my first trip to Europe as well as one of the coolest places in the world.

I next walked over to the Old Town Square. The city's first settlements appeared here in the 10th century. The square is filled with gazing tourists and restaurants with outdoor dining. At the corner of the square is this 600 year-old astronomical clock. A 200-foot tower rises above the clock - the former Town Hall. My cousin and I climbed to the top of this during my visit years ago. It provides an excellent view point.

I continued walking around the city. I kept coming across these places that I remembered taking the exact same photo from the exact same spot. It's amazing what you can remember once you see it again. I feel that Prague is a city for everyone. You could hang with "da fellas", your girlfriend, your family -- it's a clean, picturesque city - filled with great history. Top it off with a 'pivo' (beer) of your choice - it's a perfect spot. Czechs consume more 'pivo' per capita than any other nationality.

Tomorrow I'll continue to roam the city and bring back some great memories and search for areas I have yet to visit.