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Prague, City of a Hundred Spires

Jonathan van Bilsen

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December 6, 2024

Prague, City of a Hundred Spires

When I stepped off the plane in Prague, it felt like stepping into a storybook. The capital of Czechia, formerly the Czech Republic, a country with roots going back to the ninth century, has lived through times of changing rulers and governments. It was once part of the Nazi empire during World War II, then under Soviet control, and finally independent. Now a member of the European Union, Prague has become a hotspot for travellers, artists, and anyone who loves excellent beer.


The Vltava River runs through Prague, dividing it into sections, each with its own character. ‘New Town,’ established in 1348, is not new by our standards, but it is home to Prague Castle and the beautiful Vitus Cathedral. The famous Charles Bridge, built in 1357, connects New Town to the old city, and feels like a step back in time. Musicians play, statues line the walkway, and people stop to enjoy the view, feeling the history underfoot. The bridge is named after King Charles IV, who is one of the country’s most respected leaders.


There are several cathedrals at the foot of the bridge and, in an effort to subsidize their costs; musical performances are held various evenings. Classical in nature and performed by members of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, they fill the beautiful churches with timeless classics.


On the other side of the bridge is Prague’s old town, which has a famous square centered around the astronomical clock. This clock, installed in 1410, was one of the main timekeepers in the city for centuries. Today, hundreds of people gather in the square each hour to see the doors on the clock open, as figures of apostles appear in an age-old ritual. Surrounding the square are jewellery stores, restaurants, and boutiques, all giving a lively, modern feel to the area.

Nearby, Wenceslaus Square is another highlight, named after St. Wenceslaus, a legendary figure (though not actually a king). A large statue of him stands at one end, with a museum just behind it. My hotel was right on this square, so I had the pleasure of enjoying the view of the historic buildings every morning.


Venturing outside Prague, I saw a different side of Czech life. Karlovy Vary, a famous spa town along the Teplá River, was a refreshing change of pace. In the 1800s, people began visiting Karlovy Vary to drink its mineral-rich spring water, thought to have health benefits. The town still has ornate fountains where you can sip the warm, salty water straight from the spring. It was not what I would call delicious, but it was interesting to try something so popular among visitors.


Another place that stole my heart was the town of Loket, which has one of the area’s most stunning castles. Built in the 1200s, this baroque-style fortress is well-preserved and worth a tour. Not far from Loket is Hluboka Chateau, a grand palace designed to look like Windsor Castle in England. Its interiors are decorated with intricate wooden carvings and tapestries from all over the world, covering over 140 rooms. Although it looks like something out of a fairy tale, the chateau’s history goes back to the twelfth century.


Of all the places I visited, Cesky Krumlov stood out as a charming little town in Bohemia. With a population of only about 15,000, this medieval town is full of small shops along winding streets. In the center of town, the square has cozy restaurants where you can try the local ‘Chimney Cake,’ a sweet, flaky pastry that is even better filled with ice cream.


Above the town is a castle, the second largest in the Czech Republic, with spectacular views of the red rooftops below and the Vltava River that surrounds it. The walk up is a bit of a climb, but the view is worth it. You can also tour the castle, but I decided to simply enjoy the peaceful streets and scenery.


In Prague, I felt that spending four or five days was just enough to soak up its magic. Winter is especially enchanting when Christmas markets fill the streets with lights, music, and the cozy smell of mulled wine and pastries. Prague truly transforms into a winter wonderland, like something from a storybook.


This city has a charm that stays with you. Whether you are listening to street musicians on the Charles Bridge, watching the apostles appear on the astronomical clock, or strolling through old castle grounds, Prague gives you a glimpse into another world. Even though you may only spend a few days there, Prague leaves a lasting impression. It is a place where history and modern life come together in a way that makes every moment feel timeless, and for a little while, you feel like you are part of the story.


Jonathan van Bilsen is an award winning photographer, author, columnist and television host. Follow his travel adventures at photosNtravel.com

Jonathan van Bilsen’s photosNtravel TV show can be watched on RogersTV and YouTube. To follow Jonathan’s travel adventures visit photosNtravel.com

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