What do you think of Prague?
Strangely enough, I never gave Prague much thoughts before I decided to go to Prague. It’s one of those places that I’ve heard great things about and that is worth going. Rewinding my memory, what did I know about Prague? Beautiful is the only association that I had, as people told me. When I think of Austria, it’s classical music ; Poland reminds me of World War II ; Germany paints a picture of forest, castles and rivers for me.
Before I know it, I was on the way to find out. After a red-eye as usual, I was slightly drained and in need of some refreshing ; but as I approach the city center, with one glance at the cityscape, my heart is satisfied. Prague turns out to be exactly what I wanted it to be. It is a little cold and trees are a little bare. It was perfect for long walks through alley and along riverside.
Most of Prague seems frozen in time, the architecture, the pavements and decor are all a rewind into history. With every step on the cobblestone stone and every turn around the narrow streets, I breath in all that Prague has to offer.
Little did I know, Prague actually has the world's largest castle complex. Up the hill and across from the river, the majestic buildings witness centuries of history. The gothic medieval dance hall once was full of festivities. Music ringing through the space and feasts lasting through the night.
Towering over the whole palace and oversee the entire city of Prague, the cathedral echoes so much history, faith, culture, and sacredness.
Under its witness, kings were throned and dynasties began. I'm not religious, nor was I raised in a religious environment, but I can still feel their significance in history and holiness every time.
Behind heavy wooden doors, there are chambers that the governing council of Přemyslid dynasty met and vaults where thousands of scrolls and literatures were stored. This castle complex once housed the ruling power across not only Czech Republic today, but also parts of Austria, Hungary and Poland. The walls commemorate and retells history through the family crests of who that once lived and reigned, and yet forever engraved their names in the glory of the dynasties.
At last, I came across a corner of the castle called the Golden Lane. The tale is that this alley used to house alchemists and their magical crafts. More recently, this is where Kafka, a renowned Czech writer, spends his time and allows words to flow from his pen.
Between the colorful cosy houses on Golden Lane, the soaring tower of the cathedral and the grand hall, all existing in one complex, Prague once had such history that perhaps only time travelers could understand.
