This is the first of two walks dedicated to the liveliest neighborhood in Prague, Stare Mesto, or Old Town. Ten centuries of history are concentrated here, resulting in an interesting mixture of architectural styles. Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque are all present in this district.
We will begin our walk in Mala Strana, on the left bank of the river Vltava, where we will cross the Charles Bridge, one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe. We will discuss this extraordinary architectural work by Peter Parler (who is also responsible for the splendor of St. Vitus Cathedral). We will also take the time to carefully observe the statues along the bridge: gesticulating, impassioned, even excessive, but ultimately fascinating.
We will then reach the Square of the Knights of the Cross, on the other bank, which marks the entrance into the Old Town quarter. From there, we will be engulfed into Karlova Street and reach Bethlehem Square. Its tranquil atmosphere, away from the crowds of tourists, provides us with the ideal opportunity to learn about Jan Hus, a legendary figure in the history of Bohemia, and a symbol of Czech resistance over the ages.
This walk ends in Old Town Square, where the second Stare Mesto guided tour begins.