Prague is one of Europe´s most romantic and fairy tale-esque cities, and is a popular destination in Europe due to its castles, monuments, museums and general class.
There are a few very remarkable hidden attractions that are a must visit for any traveller looking for something more than the ordinary touristic spots. In this article I will uncover 5 of Prague´s unusual, fascinating and beautiful temptations that everyone has a duty to visit when in the capital of the Czech Republic.
The John Lennon Wall
Since the 80s this once normal wall has been completely covered in graffiti, murals and lyrics from John Lennon´s songs.
The wall oozes youth ideals; love and peace, all in the Beatles singers’ name. The wall was started during the communist government of Gustav Husak by youth Czechs who wrote their protests and criticisms of the regime, this caused riots and revolts between youths and police at the time. Despite the wall being repainted by authorities, the very next day it had been re-covered in lyrics and flowers; the wall constantly undergoes beautiful changes as it is being added to everyday –increasing the interest in the wall as every time you visit Prague it has undergone a transformation. We stumbled upon the wall, without knowing of its existence, down a small street off from Charles Bridge.
The Dancing House
The Dancing House is an outstanding feat of quirky architecture has been given the nickname ´Fred and Ginger´ after the dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers – as it resembles two dancers.
The design caused controversy when it was built as it doesn’t fit in to Prague´s normal gothic architectural designs; however the Czech President lived next to the property for some years and avidly supported its design, encouraging the project to become a part of Prague´s heritage. The daring glass house only has the top floor open to the public where the legendary Celeste Restaurant is located; if you dare enter the building you can expect fine cuisine and fantastic views over the Vltava River.
The Wallenstein Garden
The Wallenstein garden is part of the Wallenstein palace, the palace opens out into the garden through three large archways which makes for an easy transition from the ornate inside rooms to the beautiful garden. The garden is brightened up by fountains, trimmed trees and an elegantly composed set of bronze statues. One of the most unusual features of the garden is the wall of artificial stalactites that hides contorted faces and snakes which weave between them. Come here to escape and relax away from tourists, and have a picnic with the free-roaming Peacocks.
Prague Castle´s Moat
Sitting in the wake of the magnificent Prague Castle this extravagant moat provides a beautiful location for a quiet stroll along the waterside, which is decorated with statues and flowers. The old Stag moat is also an exceptional place to view the castle from a different angle.
Breweries in Prague
It is no secret that Prague as a nation downs more beer per head than any other; therefore it is best, and not hard, to find a few establishments that value quality over quantity. Avoid the main Czech brewers as most are owned by multinational companies, and the beer shares little in common with the dark-ales and wheat beers that were widely consumed over the 1800´s. The Soviets suppressed the old ways of brewing but since the 1990´s a few smaller classic breweries have popped up around the city providing the locals with a nutty, sweet and sometimes crazily potent brew.
Thanks to guest contributor Ben who loves to travel and visit museums and any architecural attrations he can find and experience.
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