While I’ve had my ramen, next on the list was a trip to “the city of a hundred spires”—after all, no trip to Europe is complete without passing through Prague. Honestly, I can lose track of time simply walking through the old city. It’s just that beautiful and will seriously transport you to another dimension entirely. Yet, I was with friends, and in fairness, the beauty of Prague is even better up close. Here’s everything I went to within a day in the city.
READ: I flew to Paris to have ramen
The Clementinum Astronomical Tower and Baroque Library
Deep in the heart of Prague is a series of sights and attractions steeped in the country’s rich history in astronomy and architecture. The Clementinum Astronomical Tower and Baroque Library is located in the Clementinum, a former Jesuit college.
Visitors may join a sightseeing tour featuring three distinct sights within the premises: the Baroque Library, the Meridian Hall, and the Astronomical Tower.
The Baroque Library is located in the annex of the Astronomical Tower. The hall contains a collection of over 27,000 volumes of rare theological and scientific works. Unfortunately, guests are prohibited from entering the library.
The Meridian Hall is located on the 2nd floor of the tower. It contains a slotted sundial which once determined the exact moment noon strikes.
“Between 1842 and 1928, true noon was determined here. Noon was signaled by a flag, according to which the inhabitants of Prague adjusted their clocks,” was mentioned on a sign at the premises.
Atop the Astronomical Tower is a lead statue of Atlas and a wonderful view of Prague. Interestingly, the observation tower is equipped with astronomical and meteorological instruments—measurements have been taken there since Jan. 1, 1775.
Charles Bridge
Prague’s oldest bridge was built between 1357 and 1402 to replace the flood-damaged Judith Bridge. Originally called Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge, the Charles Bridge crosses the Vltava River and contains 30 statues of saints—truly a scenic route that captures the bygone beauty of medieval Prague.
Pork’s
After a full day of walking and sightseeing, nothing beats the comfort a filling meal and heartwarming drinks provide. Just a few minutes away from Charles Bridge, Pork’s at Mostecká Street offers a delightful selection of—you guessed it, pork-based delicacies to bring to life the weary traveler in you. Be sure to check out their special crispy pork knuckles that’ll surely blow you away.
