We started the day by catching the Tram to the Mastek stop in the City Centre and then doing a short walk to the Old Town Square. This was a hive of activity with a music marathon taking place to commemorate World Children's day. Also tourists were there to watch the Astronomical Clock on the south side of the old Town Hall "perform".
This Clock was built in1410 and it operates as a small planetarium. It shows the time,the phases of the moon and the signs of the zodiac. There are two figures on each side of the clock representing vanity, greed, death and lust. On the hour "death" rings a bell and the figures shake their heads saying we are not ready to die. There are two doors above the clock where the 12 Apostles make their appearance, over a 12 hour period each apostle would have appeared once and finally the golden rooster at the very top of the clock crows before the bells chime. Quite amazing to think that all of this was designed 6 centuries ago.
We then joined a fascinating free walking tour of the Old City with Discover Prague Tours, David our guide,was very informative, humorous and knowledgeable about the city. Not only did he give us a good understanding of the history of Prague but he also gave us valuable tips for tourists. A good place to exchange money- eXchange, they do not charge commission, Lokal for good affordable beer and local food and The Bakehouse for excellent pastries and a free loo.
The striking thing about Prague is the architecture which is light and varied, with good examples of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Art Nouveau, and Functional Communist style buildings. The Jewish quarter was fascinating with excellent examples of Baroque and Gothic styles. The area was rebuilt in the late 19 C as the only evidence of the Jewish Ghetto was 3 synagogues and the old Jewish Cemetery.
The ornamental Art Nouveau Municipal Buildings are worth a mention with the Powder Tower to the left which is one of three towers left of the old town wall. This is where powder kegs were kept.
We spoilt ourselves by ending the day going to see a concert in the Cathedral of St Clement. The talented string quartet, organist and soprano performed a selection, including Vivaldi's The Four Seasons, and Ave Maria by Schubert which we had not heard before.
The Atronomical Clock
Summer fruit
The Franz Kafka monument - the empty suit.
Carbo-loading at Lokal, like a local.
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Ian and Jenny.