Sunday, June 19, 2011

Europe 2010 Day 8 - Prague - Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)


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3 Oct 2010

After returning from Pilsen, we immediately took the metro from Zličín to Anděl and switched to the tram. We are headed to Prague Castle (Pražský hrad), the largest contiguous castle complex in the world. One of the reasons that is so is because it is a 'castle', not a palace. The castle was started some time in the 9th century with buildings added throughout the centuries. Now, the Head of State of the Czech Republic seats here. Getting to the castle entrance on the hill required walking up the sloping streets and stairs.


Back in Prague for a visit to the Prague Castle. We had to ask for directions as there weren't many sign posts.


Medieval price of beer!


Below the medieval price of beer


Finally, we have reached the top; a shot opposite the main castle entrance where tourists have started to crowd around... hmm...


The change of guard


Bird's eye view of the largest castle complex in the world.


Entrance to Prague Castle


The Saint Vitus' Cathedral (Katedrála svatého Víta). This Gothic cathedral is the biggest and most important church in the country.

Saint Vitus' Cathedral
Door of Saint Vitus' Cathedral (Katedrála svatého Víta)


The Golden Gate

Saint Vitus' Cathedral
Inside St. Vitus' Cathedral, the rear is the oldest part. Coronations of some of the Bohemian kings took place here.


Statue


The Pulpit


We are walking on graves, probably of some Holy Roman Emperor or Bohemian King


Lots of stained glass in this gothic church, the church was enlarged over the years since its foundation in year 1344 CE


The back of the rose window


Tomb of John of Nepomuk, National Saint of Czech Republic. Drowned in 1393 CE by the Bohemian King for refusing to divulge the Queen's confession.


The last thing we saw in St. Vitus before moving on to the Vladislav Hall.

Vladislav Hall
These are supposed to be the Bohemian crown jewels in the Vladislav Hall (Vladislavský sál), the crown, made in 1347 CE is supposed to be the fourth oldest in Europe.


Land titles of Bohemian nobility


Left, St. George's Basilica (Czech: Bazilika Sv. Jiří), the oldest church building in Prague Castle since 920 CE where princes are buried.


Inside St. George's Basilica, there is a crypt with a creepy statue down in the basement.


Holy Cross Chapel (Kaple svatého Kříže)


Looking out at Charles Bridge from Prague Castle


Castle Gardens, we left the castle after this.


Passing the Church of St Nicolas (Svatý Mikuláš) as we make our way back to Anděl


Home cooked dinner!

Feeling very poor for some reason, we bought ingredients from Tesco (hypermarket) at Anděl near the apartment we stayed in. Our friends proceed to whip up a nice meal for us. Then, it was time for our last round of drinks at the thirsty deer before sleeping. Tomorrow we will rise early and bid our friends goodbye before heading to Vienna by bus.

Check back for the next post soon.

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