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Unravel the rich tapestry of Prague’s history as you venture off the beaten path, delving deeper into the city’s hushed narratives and enchanting nooks; welcome to the historical hidden gems of Prague.
Prague is a city that radiates charm and magic, a place where history, culture, music, and art blend seamlessly, making it a sought-after destination for travelers. The city’s cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs, and ancient bridges exude a mesmerizing atmosphere that captures the hearts of all who visit.
But amidst the well-known attractions of Prague, there are hidden historical gems that few people know about. These unique monuments and structures are less touristy but no less important in telling the story of this beautiful city.
Wooden Cobblestones
Preserving the Peaceful Old World Charm Walking along certain streets in Prague, you may notice the sound of your footsteps is not that of traditional cobblestone. Instead, you may hear a gentle clacking that is reminiscent of the sound of horse-drawn carriages.
These historical hidden gems of Prague, the wooden cobblestones laid down in the past to preserve the calm and peaceful atmosphere of Prague. You can find them in several locations in the city, such as Nerudova, Lázeňská or Úvoz streets. Not only do they contribute to the historic feel of Prague, but also they protect buildings from damage from vehicles.
Malá Strana’s Well: One of the most important historical hidden gems of Prague
One of the historical hidden gems of Prague is the captivating Malá Strana’s well. A testament to historical and cultural values, resembles a statue or sculpture with its unique, intricate carvings. Situated next to the St. Nicholas Church, this well speaks of the sense of community that has always been central to Prague’s values.
It was used as a water source by both the Jeronymites and the residents of Malá Strana. The well also served as a meeting place for locals in more modern times where they would gather to chat, drink water and enjoy the lush surroundings.
The Old Town Market
A Renaissance Revival The Old Town Market dates back to the 13th century and was a significant hub of commercial activity during the Middle Ages. This historical hidden gem extensive damage during WWII. But this Renaissance-style building is slated to open again soon.
It was built under Master Martin of Kounice and represents the unique architectural heritage of Prague. The reopening of the Old Town Market will breathe new life into the heart of the city, reminding us of its historical past and legacy.
Boundary Stones
Protecting Prague’s Walls Prague is known for its well-preserved walls that encircle the city center. To protect these walls, boundary stones were installed to mark off the area and prevent damage from construction projects.
The boundary stones also serve as a reminder of the need to preserve Prague’s architectural beauty. You can find these stones across the city, from the historic walls around Malá Strana to those around Letná.
Bradach Statue: An Interesting Piece of Prague’s River History
The Vltava River has played a significant role in the history of Prague. The Bradach statue marks the water level of the river during significant floods and droughts. It was erected in 1716 and served practical purposes, such as warning residents of impending floods. Nowadays, it is mostly a tourist attraction, but it still has a lot of historical and cultural significance, reminding us of Prague’s strong connection with the Vltava River.
Prague’s Venice: A Canal-Mill
Malts knights played a massive role in creating Prague’s Venice with the help of canalization and construction of water wheels. A vast network of more than 50 mills was created along the canals, which served as a link between the town and its surrounding areas.
These mills were used for grinding corn and producing textiles. The canals and mills are still intact today, reminding us of the resourcefulness and adaptability of the people of Prague.
Sundials and the Meridian
Tracking Time in Prague Sundials served as a resourceful way of measuring time in Prague, where sunlight was abundant. Many historical buildings have sundials on their walls, and the meridian near the Clementinum had a pivotal role in tracking time until clocks were invented. These sundials are not only practical but also works of art, with intricate designs and details that make them unique.
Prague’s Rocket: A Unique Measure of Trade
In the past, Prague had its unique measure of trade – the Prague Rocket. These historical hidden gems of Prague were used to measure a specific type of grain called wheat rye in the 16th and 17th centuries. It was designed and manufactured by an engineer named Karel Práta, who was commissioned by King Rudolf II. The Prague Rocket is a symbol of Prague’s innovative spirit, capturing the city’s thirst for creativity and ingenuity.
Conclusion
Prague is a fascinating city with a rich history that spans centuries and reflects important social, cultural, and philosophical values. In exploring these lesser-known historical gems, as this blog has done, you gain a more profound appreciation for this city and its people.
So, when planning your trip to Prague, make sure to take some time to explore these hidden treasures, and immerse yourself in the unique historical and cultural experience that is Prague.
