Prague (Days 63-66)

I took my trip to Prague for my fall break during the London portion of our program. My friend, Caroline Blake, and I made the journey to the Czech Republic not sure what to expect… but it turned out to be one of the highlights of my entire semester! 

our shabby chic (mostly shabby yet wonderful) hostel!

There is a magical quality to Prague! Autumn was in full swing when we arrived, and the gorgeous red leaves perfectly matched the red rooftops which blanket the city. The cobblestone streets (which are both quaint and treacherous… I had more than one painful/very public wipeout) and antique architecture add to Prague’s fairytale appeal. 

Caroline and I did so much in our short visit! We especially enjoyed a few of Prague’s many art museums, seeing a wide variety of fantastic art. The historic Charles Bridge, just between our hostel and Old Town, was another great spot for art-viewing as dozens of artists take advantage of tourist traffic to sell their work. 

at the Gallery of Art Prague's Warhol exhibition

And its no wonder that so many artists flock to Prague for inspiration! The city is breathtaking, even during the chilly season when I visited. From the many parks throughout Prague, Caroline and I got to experience the beauty of the city from above, with all of its spectacular castles and churches.

the stunning view from Petrin Hill

We also visited the incredible library in Strahov Monastery, one of the most beautiful and lauded libraries in the world! 
The Lennon Wall was another favorite stop we made. Since the 80’s, the wall has been used as a public canvas; even today it is still regularly gratified with John Lennon/Beatles-inspired art and messages of love, tolerance, and solidarity. 

Finally, Caroline and I attended vespers at St. Vitus. St. Vitus is, without a doubt, the most beautiful cathedral I’ve ever seen. The outside is covered in an elaborate, gold mosaic, and the stain glass is the most brightly-colored and breathtaking that I’ve ever seen. The entirety of vespers was in Czech, but it was still worthwhile just to be in such an ornate building. At the end of the service, the congregation was led through a series of rooms that are normally closed to public viewing, each one more beautiful than the last. Such an experience! 

When Caroline and I weren’t exploring the city, we were eating. Czech food is so homey and comforting: lots of meat and potatoes and stews. Everything we tried was delicious, filling, and warm. Between meals, there was gingerbread and trdelnik, a yummy cinnamon-sugar-coated treat served on nearly every street. I already miss trdelnik. 

In fact, I miss all of Prague! This short trip was such a special experience, one I will remember for a life-time! I’ve only even mentioned a few of the things I got to do and see during my visit. I feel thoroughly satisfied and blessed by my fall break adventure!