Get to know:
Czech Christmas, Then and Now
From Vinohrady to Vršovice; Prague’s Modernist Churches
Tourist information and visitor centres can be found in downtown Prague and at the international airport: Old Town Hall q Old Town Square 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Guide Office r Mon – Fri 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sat+Sun 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Na Můstku q Rytířská 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Wenceslas Square q corner of Štěpánská St., Prague 1 r daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (January 7 – March 20, 2019 closed) Václav Havel Airport Prague q Terminal 1 (arrival hall) r daily 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. q Terminal 2 (arrival hall) r daily 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. (January to March daily 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
p For current information about Christmas opening hours, see w prague.eu Join our guided walking tours! Our trained, licensed guides will give you an engaging, but historically accurate walking tour of the key sights of the Old Town (during Christmas time also with a look at Czech Christmas customs and traditions).
Although the Czech Republic is one of the world’s most secular countries, Christmas (December 24-26) is celebrated here with great zeal. While for many countries Christmas proper begins on December 25, here the Christmas Eve dinner and gift-unwrapping ritual on the 24th are at the heart of the holiday. If you’re planning to be in Prague around this time, be sure to book your restaurant meals in advance as many businesses will be closed. The first visible signs of the arrival of Christmas are, of course, the omnipresent Christmas markets. Among the items on sale are often hand-blown, colourful glass Christmas ornaments; their manufacture has been a traditional craft in the Czech Lands for centuries, even though the designs have changed with the times.
Wenceslas Square
g 1 Dec-6 Jan Markets in the very heart of Prague, where the metro lines meet. A festively lit Christmas tree, stalls with samples of folk crafts and traditional fare.
Manifesto Winter Market
g 22 Nov-23 Dec The cashless container village at Na Florenci street will offer a brand-new experience for visitors. A stylish Christmas place will debut here, featuring heated igloos, fireplaces for roasting marshmallows, stalls with a selection of Czech design and much more.
náměstí Míru
g 20 Nov-24 Dec The traditional Christmas market in the central plaza of Vinohrady. Lots of stalls selling a wide range of Christmas products springing up in front of the brick Church of St Ludmila.
náměstí Republiky
g 1 Dec-30 Dec A wide variety of Christmas goods and food stalls in the zone between two large department stores – Kotva and the Palladium.
Anděl – pedestrian zone
g 24 Nov-23 Dec Christmas markets in the Smíchov district, in the pedestrian zone right at the Anděl metro station. The decorative wooden stalls offer the traditional Christmas assortment.
g every Thu, Fri and Sat in English r start at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. t CZK 300 per person
Events Places Inspiration
information about Prague • maps and information brochures for free • tourist card • tickets for cultural and sport events • city tours • accommodation • public transportation tickets • souvenirs from Prague • guide services
dren’s ensembles from all over Czechia and abroad; programme slots for everyone, big and small.
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Prague City Tourism is here to help you!
Kampa park
g 7 Dec-6 Jan This market stands against the evocative backdrop of Kampa island in the square beneath Charles Bridge, between the main flow of the Vltava river and the ‘Devil’s watercourse’ Čertovka, within sight of Prague Castle.
Winter & Christmas
New Town Hall
g 1 & 2 Dec Once again this event is one to be enjoyed by families with kids, food lovers and arts fans. The weekend will encompass a French market, a show of railway models, theatrical and singing performances.
design Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague. Prague.eu/walks
Five walks off the beaten path to places known and unknown 1
walks
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
then and now Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
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Prague.eu
Over 50 tips for finding great beer in & around Prague
vineyards, wine bars, restaurants, shops
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
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prague.eu/beer Jewish then and now design
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
Jewish
walks
then and now
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist: Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
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Green Spaces
Five walks off the beaten path to places known and unknown 1
design Czech design shops, studios and showrooms
design
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Czech design shops, studios and showrooms
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With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist:
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague.
q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist:
q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Prague.eu
q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Prague.eu
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist:
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
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map
wine Prague
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Jewish
Veletržní Palace (Veletržní palác) q Dukelských hrdinů 47, Prague 7 w www.ngprague.cz Once the largest building of its kind in the world, the first functionalist building in Prague, impressively sized at 140 x 75 m. Today it holds the National Gallery’s modern art collections. D2
design
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Žižkov TV tower (Žižkovská televizní věž) q Mahlerovy sady 1, Prague 3 w www.towerpark.cz Without a doubt towering over Prague at 216 m, the tallest building in the city. Climbing the tower’s exterior are 10 giant baby statues by David Černý. E3
Five walks off the beaten path to places known and unknown 1
Czech design shops, studios and showrooms
design then and now
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
vineyards, wine bars, restaurants, shops
Cafés
St Nicholas Church (Kostel sv. Mikuláše) q Malostranské náměstí, Prague 1 w www.stnicholas.cz A prime example of Prague Baroque, with distinctive dome and bell tower. The Church is a key part of the panorama, not just the left bank of the Vltava River. While staying in Prague, W. A. Mozart played the organ here. C3
Guide to Prague cafés
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
The Dancing House (Tančící dům) q Jiráskovo náměstí 6, Prague 2 w www.tancici-dum.cz This exceptional building is a pillar of modern Prague architecture; Inspired by the dancing skill of that famous movie couple – Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. C3
Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
Müller’s villa (Müllerova vila) q Nad Hradním vodojemem 14, Prague 6 w www.muzeumprahy.cz The villa is a world masterpiece of architectural avant-garde. The outside seems curtly functionalist, the internal layout being more remarkable, ‘flowing’ one into another. B2
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House at the Black Madonna (Dům U Černé Matky Boží) q Ovocný trh 19, Prague 1 w www.upm.cz The pinnacle of Czech Cubist architecture, exceptional for its façade and Cubist layout design, which goes right into the interior. Also houses a permanent exhibition of Czech Cubism. D3
Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord (Kostel Nejsvětějšího Srdce Páně) q náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad, Prague 3 w www.srdcepane.cz The prime 20th century Czech sacral building by the Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik. The distinctive and monumental edifice is inspired by ancient Christian designs. E3 Petřín Lookout Tower (Petřínská rozhledna) q Petřínské sady, Prague 1 w www.muzeumprahy.cz One of Prague’s unmissable landmarks, built in 1891 as a loose copy of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, on a 1:5 scale. C3
Modern architecture
Jewish
Top Prague Sights
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Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) q Prague 1 – Hradčany w www.hrad.cz The Prague Castle panorama is one of the most impressive anywhere. One of the largest castle complexes in the world, with historical palaces, church buildings, extensive gardens and picturesque vistas. Prague Castle has for over a thousand years symbolized Czech statehood. Most notable is the Gothic Cathedral of Sts Vitus, Wenceslas and Adalbert (1344). C2
Vyšehrad – V Pevnosti, Prague 2 w www.praha-vysehrad.cz According to ancient legend the oldest seat of Czech princes, in fact the fortress dates back to the 10th century. Its parks encompass architectural treasures like the Romanesque Rotunda of St Martin, the neo-Gothic church of Sts Peter and Paul, the National Cemetery and other places of note. D4
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Jewish then and now design
Public holidays in the Czech Republic
Czech design shops, studios and showrooms
Main Post Office q Jindřišská 14, Prague 1 z +420 954 211 000 w www.ceskaposta.cz daily 2:00–24:00 D3 Public transport w www.dpp.cz z +420 296 19 18 17 Tourist passes for 24 (t CZK 110) or 72 hours (t CZK 310) Municipal Health centre Prague (Městská poliklinika Praha) q Spálená 12, Prague 1 z +420 222 924 295 D3 24 hour Pharmacy q Palackého 5, Prague 1 z +420 224 946 982 D3 Currency: Czech koruna (CZK); 1 euro = approx. 26 CZK coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 CZK banknotes: 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 CZK p Most shops, restaurants, hotels and other services accept major international payment cards. Cash available via a dense network of ATMs.
then and now
Powder Tower (Prašná brána) q Na Příkopě, Prague 1 w www.muzeumprahy.cz A landmark of late Gothic Prague, the start of the so-called Royal route to Prague Castle. It used to be a gunpowder warehouse. D3 Municipal House (Obecní dům) q náměstí Republiky 5, Prague 1 w www.obecnidum.cz Early 20th century Prague Art Nouveau at its best, the work of major artists of the period headed by none less than the renowned painter Alfons Mucha. The Smetana Concert Hall dominates the stunning interior. D3
design
Public toilets – in all Metro stations, usual opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:00–21:00, Sat–Sun 8:00–20:00, longer at central and connecting stations.
The Church of Our Lady before Týn (Chrám Matky Boží před Týnem) q Staroměstské náměstí, Prague 1 w www.tyn.cz One of the most impressive Gothic sacral buildings in Prague with an extensive gallery of Gothic, Renaissance and early Baroque works, e.g. fine altarpieces by Karel Škréta and the tomb of astronomer Tycho Brahe. D3
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist:
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Practical information: The Old-New Synagogue (Staronová synagoga) q Červená st., Prague 1 w www.kehilaprag.cz Among the oldest and most valuable European and World Jewish monuments, the oldest synagogue in Central Europe. The early Gothic, late 13th century building is still the temple for Prague’s Jewish community. D2 Clementinum q Mariánské náměstí 5, Prague 1 w www.klementinum.com An extensive complex, originally a Jesuit College. The guided tour includes the Astronomical Tower and Baroque Library Hall. The Mirrored Chapel distinctively beset with mirrors is used as a concert hall. C3
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Prague
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
A city of magic and romance, a gem of architecture down the centuries; full of captivating ambience, resounding with the melodies of great composers, but also a modern metropolis pulsating with life; Prague is all these, one of the finest cities in the world. In 1992 its historical centre was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist: q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
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The Church of Our Lady Victorious – ‘Child of Prague’ (Kostel Panny Marie Vítězné – Pražské Jezulátko) q Karmelitská 9, Prague 1 w www.pragjesu.cz An early Baroque church renowned for its Infant Jesus statue from Spain, donated to the Carmelites by Polyxena of Lobkowitz (1628). C3
walks Five walks off the beaten path to places known and unknown 1 Prague.eu/walks
Czech design shops, studios and showrooms
Gardens, Parks & Natural retreats
Charles Bridge (Karlův most) q Prague 1 – Lesser Town, Old Town The oldest and most renowned Prague bridge was built in 1357 by Charles IV. At both ends stand fortified bridge towers – The twin Lesser Town towers and the Old Town tower, which is one of the finest gate towers of Gothic Europe. C3
walks
then and now
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The Nat
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist: q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
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Loreta q Loretánské náměstí 7, Prague 1 w www.loreta.cz A Marian pilgrimage place with replica Holy House, and the Baroque Church of the Nativity. The so-called Loreto treasure is a set of missal objects, the most famous being the Diamond monstrance. B3/2
Jewish
design
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
Old Town Hall and Horologe (Staroměstská radnice s orlojem) q Staroměstské náměstí, Prague 1 w www.prague.eu/oldtownhall The Old Town Hall dates from 1338, presiding over the Old Town. The oldest Gothic part of the complex is the tower and the oriel chapel, as well as the medieval horologe, where every hour between 9:00–23:00 the 12 Apostles are to be seen. D3
design
Strahov Monastery (Strahovský klášter) q Strahovské nádvoří 1, Prague 1 w www.strahovskyklaster.cz The Premonstratensian monastery dates from 1140. Its grounds include the heritage Strahov library and Strahov picture gallery, with remarkable collections of Central European Gothic, Rudolfine, Baroque and Rococo works of art. B3
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Emergency phone line: 112 Czech Republic dialling code: +420 x Václav Havel Airport Prague (Letiště Václava Havla Praha) w www.prg.aero, 30 minutes from city centre
ŽELIVSKÉHO
KÁ VINOHRADS
q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
Airport access: Hlavní nádraží (y C) j Airport Express, trip length approx. 33 minutes Nádraží Veleslavín (y A) j 119, trip length approx. 17 minutes Zličín (y B) j 100, trip length approx. 16 minutes Anděl (y B) j 191, trip length approx. 51 minutes Night bus j 910
FLÓRA
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist:
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
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Area: 496 km2 Population: 1,290,000 Geographical location: 50° 05‘ 19‘‘ North, 14° 25‘ 17‘‘ East, 235 m above sea level (avg.) Time zone: Central European Time (GMT +1) – CET daylight saving time +1 (GMT +2) Climate: Central European, temperate with 4 seasons Vltava River flows through the city for 31 km, widest point 330 m Historical centre: Prague Castle (Hradčany), Lesser Town (Malá Strana), Old Town (Staré Město), New Town (Nové Město) and Vyšehrad
JIŘÍHO Z PODĚBRAD
A OV ÍČK
then and now
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist: Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
1 Jan – New Year’s Day, Czech State Day Good Friday and Easter Monday (moveable feast) 1 May – Labour Day 8 May – Victory Day 5 July – Day of the Slavic missionaries Cyril & Methodius 6 July – Master John Hus Immolation Day 28 Sept – Czech Statehood Day 28 Oct – Czechoslovak State Inception Day 17 Nov – Freedom and Democracy Day 24 Dec – Christmas Eve 25 Dec – Christmas Day 26 Dec – St Stephen’s Day
ŠKROUPOVO NÁMĚSTÍ
DŘ ON
Jewish
RIEGROVY SADY
then and now then and now
Jewish
ŽIT OM ÍRS KÁ
design
OLŠANY OLŠANSKÉ HŘBITOVY
Czech design shops, studios and showrooms Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
design
Slovanský Island (Slovanský ostrov) q Prague 1 – the one island on the Vltava River with a significant park, with its showy neo-Renaissance Žofín palace C3 Kampa q Prague 1 – an island between the main course of the Vltava River and its Čertovka offshoot, one of the most romantic and lovely places in Prague C3
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With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague.
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
Střelecký Island (Střelecký ostrov) q Prague 1 – a cosy place shaded by ancient trees, captures the atmosphere of old times with uncommon views of Prague C3 Prague ferryboats Prague ferries are the greatest way to cross between Prague’s right and left banks. From April to October, and normal Public transport (MHD) tickets apply. More information at w www.dpp.cz or w www.ropid.cz.
ŽIŽKOVSKÁ TV VĚŽ
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist: Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist:
Prague attractions
PALÁC AKROPOLIS
q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
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Prague.eu Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Prague Botanical Garden (Botanická zahrada hl. m. Prahy) q Trojská 196, Prague 7 w www.botanicka.cz The garden offers almost 30 hectares of landscaped areas, including the Fata Morgana tropical greenhouse exhibit, letting you enjoy a trip to the tropics at any time of the year. C1 Prague Zoo (Zoologická zahrada hl. m. Prahy) q U Trojského zámku 3, Prague 7 w www.zoopraha.cz Thanks to its prime location Prague Zoo belongs among the loveliest zoos in the world. This beautiful stretch of the outdoors with its animal inhabitants is apt for all generations of visitors. C1 Vltava River Islands By the waterside you can also enjoy any of Prague’s islands.
OVA ELÍK KUB
q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m prague.eu/design
Historical Tram Line No. 41 From the Holešovice exhibition grounds or the Střešovice yard, at weekends from April to November, the historical tram sets off on its regular route through the city centre. D2 Mirror labyrinth at Petřín (Zrcadlové bludiště) q Petřínské sady, Prague 1 w www.muzeumprahy.cz From the outside it looks like a mini castle, inside, instead of secret passages you’ll meet a maze of mirrors. Spontaneous children’s laughter echoes in the Hall of laughter, with its distorting mirrors. C3
Convent of St Agnes of Bohemia (Klášter sv. Anežky České) q U Milosrdných 17, Prague 1 Showing: Medieval Art in Bohemia and Central Europe 1200–1550 D2
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Experiential tours You don’t have to explore the charm of Prague on foot. What not try a fairytale carriage, a vintage car, an ecotrain or a scenic balloon flight? There are plenty of options. For more information, please visit our Tourist Information and Visitor Centres.
Sternberg Palace (Šternberský palác) q Hradčanské nám. 15, Prague 1 Exhibition Hall C2 Veletržní Palace (Veletržní palác) q Dukelských hrdinů 47, Prague 7 Showing: The Arts in Czechoslovakia 1918–1989 (from 28 Oct 2018) D2
S OLŠAN
Prague City Tourism Tourist Information and Visitor Centres
Salm Palace (Salmovský palác) q Hradčanské nám. 2, Prague 1 Showing: The TBA21 Contemporary Arts Centre (from 6 Jun 2018) C3 Schwarzenberg Palace (Schwarzenberský palác) q Hradčanské nám. 2, Prague 1 Showing: The Baroque in Bohemia (till August 2018) C3
TÁ BO RI TS K
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Tourist Information Centres The House at the Stone Bell (Dům U Kamenného zvonu) q Staroměstské náměstí 13, Prague 1 Exhibition Hall D3 Bílek Villa q Mickiewiczova 1, Prague 6 Showing: The Studio of František Bílek, Czech symbolist sculptor and graphic artist C2 Kinský Palace (Palác Kinských) q Staroměstské nám. 12, Prague 1 Exhibition Hall D3
The National Gallery in Prague (Národní galerie v Praze):
A JOV IVO
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
Our TICs, located at key places in the historical centre and at the international airport, serve to advise you about Prague, with informative brochures and maps (free of charge) and a wide range of tourism-oriented services, such as tourist benefit cards, accommodation, public transport travel, admission tickets to cultural events etc. Open daily. Aquapalace Prague q Pražská 138, Průhonice – Čestlice w www.aquapalace.cz The biggest entertainment aqua park in Central Europe, where you’ll enjoy memorable moments in this singular sports and leisure complex awash with aquatic attractions. House of Photography (Dům fotografie) q Revoluční 5, Prague 1 Exhibition Hall D2 Municipal Library (2nd floor) q Mariánské náměstí 1, Prague 1 Exhibition Hall D3 Troja Chateau (Trojský zámek) q U Trojského zámku 4/1, Prague 7 Showing: The architecture and decor of Chateau Troja C1
The Prague City Gallery (Galerie hlavního města Prahy):
BOŘ
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our Tourist Information Centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist:
Old Town Hall (Staroměstská radnice) q Staroměstské náměstí 1 D3 Rytířská 12 q corner of Na Můstku street D3 Wenceslas square (upper part) q corner of Štěpánská street D3 Václav Havel Airport Prague q Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 z +420 221 714 714 f tourinfo@prague.eu
E-shop Petřín Funicular (Lanová dráha na Petřín) q Újezd, Prague 1 w www.dpp.cz A popular funicular railway running since 1891. It is integrated into the public transport network and takes you to the top of Petřín Hill. C3 p More information at w www.ghmp.cz p More information at w www.ngprague.cz (we recommend keeping an eye on the websites in case of exhibition and venue changes)
HLAVNÍ NÁDRAŽÍ
Old Town Hall q Old Town Square 1, Prague 1 r daily 9:00–19:00
Our trained, licensed guides will give you an engaging, but historically accurate walking tour of the key sights of the Old Town.
Join our guided walking tours!
Vltava, and life on the river The Strahov picture gallery (Strahovská obrazárna) q Strahovské nádvoří 1, Prague 1 w www.strahovskyklaster.cz Showing: A collection of Czech and European art from Gothic to romanticism B3
Prague’s Parks and Gardens
SEIFERTOVA
Na Můstku q Rytířská 12, Prague 1 r daily 9:00–19:00
dates: every Saturday in English (exceptionally in German) time: start at 2 p.m. prize: CZK 300 per person
Prague’s Riverbanks (Náplavky) w www.prazskenaplavky.cz Prague’s riverbanks are some of its favourite promenades, and during the summer they become the centres of Prague’s cultural life and leisure-time activities. DOX – Centre for Contemporary Art q Poupětova 1, Prague 7 w www.dox.cz Presenting contemporary art, architecture and design E1
The Palace Gardens under Prague Castle (Palácové zahrady pod Pražským hradem) q Valdštejnská 12 – 14, Prague 1 w www.palacove-zahrady.cz On the southern slopes below Prague Castle is a showpiece complex of interrelated historical gardens with rich architectural decor, lookout terraces and pavilions set among the vegetation to charming effect. C2
PARK PARUKÁŘKA
Book in person at the Guide Office or at our Tourist information centres or visit w eshop.prague.eu/walkingtours.
Rental boats and pedalos Popular pedalos or boats are an interesting and romantic alternative way to spend summer leisure time in Prague. Picture Gallery of Prague Castle (Obrazárna Pražského hradu) q Prague Castle – II. nádvoří, Prague 1 w www.kulturanahrade.cz Showing: Paintings from the Castle collections C2
Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) q Letenská st., Prague 1 A geometrically set out early Baroque garden with monumental sala terrena and artificial grotto with a distinctive atmosphere. Free ranging peacocks accompany your walk. C2 Prague Castle Gardens (Zahrady Pražského hradu) q Prague Castle, Prague 1 w www.hrad.cz Historically most notable is the Royal Garden from 1534, with its singing fountain, which belongs among the finest Renaissance water fountains in Europe. From the Southern gardens, stretching beneath the Castle frontage, you get breathtaking views over Prague’s historical centre. C2
OV A
Prague City Tourism Arbesovo nám. 70/4 / Praha 5 / 150 00 / CZ Text: © Prague City Tourism Photo: © Prague City Tourism and the institutions’ photo archives Graphic design: Touch Branding Map: Kartografie Praha a.s. Print: ALL365 s.r.o. Prague 4/2018, First revised edition, Not for sale
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Added-value guided tours At w www.eshop.prague.eu you can book or order educational tours, your own private guides or our maps and brochures, as well as items of merchandise.
Sightseeing cruises River Cruises offer an unforgettable view of the historic centre of Prague and many novel experiences.
Rieger’s park (Riegrovy sady) q Prague 2 – Vinohrady This park, over a hundred years old, has many half-hid nooks, wooded glades, open leas and uncommon vistas of Prague. E3/D3 Petřín park (Petřínské sady) q Prague 1 – Lesser Town Petřín Hill is one of the largest urban expanses of greenery and its slopes are an oasis of calm in the centre of Prague. Atop stands Petřín lookout tower, which offers an enchanting view of the whole city. C3/B3 Vojanovy sady gardens q U Lužického semináře 17, Prague 1 A little mysterious and unjustly overlooked. The pensiveness of Vojanovy sady has lingered since the Middle Ages, when it was a monastery garden. C3 Vrtba Garden (Vrtbovská zahrada) q Karmelitská 25, Prague 1 w www.vrtbovska.cz One of the most important and finest Baroque gardens, though compact, architecturally original on its awkward slope, with sculptural artistic merit that makes it a garden of European importance. C3
Clementinum q Mariánské náměstí 5, Prague 1 w www.klementinum.com An extensive complex, originally a Jesuit College. The guided tour includes the Astronomical Tower and Baroque Library Hall. The Mirrored Chapel distinctively beset with mirrors is used as a concert hall. C3
BETLÉMSKÁ KAPLE
Royal Park (Královská obora) – Stromovka q Prague 7 – Bubeneč The sprawling park covers an area of 95 ha in close proximity to Holešovice Exhibition grounds. It is the ideal place for romantic walks, picnics, sport and leisure. D1,D2/C1,C2
Municipal House (Obecní dům) q náměstí Republiky 5, Prague 1 w www.obecnidum.cz Early 20th century Prague Art Nouveau at its best, the work of major artists of the period headed by none less than the renowned painter Alfons Mucha. The Smetana Concert Hall dominates the stunning interior. D3
PR OK OP
Letná park (Letenské sady) q Prague 7 – Holešovice An extensive park with large grassy areas, mature trees and a varied mix of tree species and a long plane-tree avenue, providing a nice place to sit and great city views. D2/C2 Franciscan garden (Františkánská zahrada) q Jungmannovo náměstí, Prague 1 The cosy green nook in the heart of the city invites you to stop and take a breath when walking around Prague. The local herbaceous beds are a treat. D3
Powder Tower (Prašná brána) q Na Příkopě, Prague 1 w www.muzeumprahy.cz A landmark of late Gothic Prague, the start of the so-called Royal route to Prague Castle. It used to be a gunpowder warehouse. D3
HUSITSKÁ
The National Museum historical building (Historická budova Národního muzea) q Václavské náměstí 68, Prague 1 Closed for refurbishment until 28 Oct 2018 D3
The National Museum (Národní muzeum):
Museum & Galleries
Vyšehrad park (Vyšehradské sady) q Prague 2 – Vyšehrad A magical place of myths and legends, with romantic hideaways and beautiful vistas of the Vltava River. D4
Vyšehrad – V Pevnosti, Prague 2 w www.praha-vysehrad.cz According to ancient legend the oldest seat of Czech princes, in fact the fortress dates back to the 10th century. Its parks encompass architectural treasures like the Romanesque Rotunda of St Martin, the neo-Gothic church of Sts Peter and Paul, the National Cemetery and other places of note. D4
VA ĚVO KON
Prague Venice (Pražské Benátky) q Judita, Čertovka, Mánes and Four Seasons wharfs w www.prazskebenatky.cz C3;C3;C2 and C3 Evropská vodní doprava – Prague Boats q Čechův bridge wharf, w www.evd.cz D2
The National Museum new building (Nová budova Národního muzea) q Vinohradská 1, Prague 1 Showing: “Noah’s Ark” natural history exposition D3
Modern architecture
www.prague.eu www.praguecitytourism.eu
w www.prague.eu Our highly qualified guides will acquaint you with the Czech metropolis, whether on foot or on sightseeing rides. We offer specialized as well as basic routes. Tour guide services q Old Town Hall z +420 221 714 569, +420 775 855 037 f guides@prague.eu
Prague ferry steamers (Parníky Praha) q Dvořákovo embankment, Na Františku w www.parniky-praha.eu D2 The Prague Steamboat Company (Pražská paroplavební společnost) q Rašínovo embankment and Čechův bridge wharf w www.paroplavba.cz – also trips to the ZOO (April – September) C3;D2
Lapidary (Lapidárium) q Výstaviště 422, Prague 7 Showing: The monuments of stone carving in Bohemia, 11–19th centuries D1 Czech Museum of Music (České muzeum hudby) q Karmelitská 2/4, Prague 1 Showing: Man – Instrument – Music (400 historical musical instruments, incl. the pianoforte played by W. A. Mozart) C3 Petřín Lookout Tower (Petřínská rozhledna) q Petřínské sady, Prague 1 w www.muzeumprahy.cz One of Prague’s unmissable landmarks, built in 1891 as a loose copy of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, on a 1:5 scale. C3
MASARYKOVO NÁDRAŽÍ
Jazzboat q Čechův bridge wharf w www.jazzboat.cz – an exceptional floating jazz club D2
The House at the Golden Ring (Dům U Zlatého prstenu) q Týnská 6, Prague 1 Showing: Prague under Charles IV (a burgeoning European Medieval City) D3 p For other National Museum exhibits, see w www.nm.cz Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord (Kostel Nejsvětějšího Srdce Páně) q náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad, Prague 3 w www.srdcepane.cz The prime 20th century Czech sacral building by the Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik. The distinctive and monumental edifice is inspired by ancient Christian designs. E3 The Old-New Synagogue (Staronová synagoga) q Červená st., Prague 1 w www.kehilaprag.cz Among the oldest and most valuable European and World Jewish monuments, the oldest synagogue in Central Europe. The early Gothic, late 13th century building is still the temple for Prague’s Jewish community. D2
VÍTKOV
Jewish Museum in Prague (Židovské muzeum v Praze) q Maiselova 15, Prague 1 w www.jewishmuseum.cz One of the oldest and continuously run Jewish museums in the world, documenting the history, traditions and customs of the Jewish population in the Czech lands. Also under the Museum’s care are: The Old Jewish Cemetery (Starý židovský hřbitov), Spanish synagogue (Španělská synagoga), Pinkas synagogue (Pinkasova synagoga), Ceremonial Hall (Obřadní síň), Maisel synagogue (Maiselova synagoga), Klausen synagogue (Klausová synagoga), and the Robert Guttmann Gallery. D2 Museum Kampa q U Sovových mlýnů 2, Prague 1 w www.museumkampa.cz Showing: A collection of Central European modern art and artworks by pioneering abstract painter František Kupka, and Czech Cubist sculptor Otto Gutfreund. C3 The City of Prague Museum (Muzeum hlavního města Prahy) q Na Poříčí 52, Prague 8 w www.muzeumprahy.cz Showing: The Langweil model of Prague, the history of Prague from prehistory to the Middle Ages and the present day D2
The Dancing House (Tančící dům) q Jiráskovo náměstí 6, Prague 2 w www.tancici-dum.cz This exceptional building is a pillar of modern Prague architecture; Inspired by the dancing skill of that famous movie couple – Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. C3 Müller’s villa (Müllerova vila) q Nad Hradním vodojemem 14, Prague 6 w www.muzeumprahy.cz The villa is a world masterpiece of architectural avant-garde. The outside seems curtly functionalist, the internal layout being more remarkable, ‘flowing’ one into another. B2
Prague
NÁRODNÍ PAMÁTNÍK NA VÍTKOVĚ
Veletržní Palace (Veletržní palác) q Dukelských hrdinů 47, Prague 7 w www.ngprague.cz Once the largest building of its kind in the world, the first functionalist building in Prague, impressively sized at 140 x 75 m. Today it holds the National Gallery’s modern art collections. D2 House at the Black Madonna (Dům U Černé Matky Boží) q Ovocný trh 19, Prague 1 w www.upm.cz The pinnacle of Czech Cubist architecture, exceptional for its façade and Cubist layout design, which goes right into the interior. Also houses a permanent exhibition of Czech Cubism. D3
A city of magic and romance, a gem of architecture down the centuries; full of captivating ambience, resounding with the melodies of great composers, but also a modern metropolis pulsating with life; Prague is all these, one of the finest cities in the world. In 1992 its historical centre was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
FLORENC
Žižkov TV tower (Žižkovská televizní věž) q Mahlerovy sady 1, Prague 3 w www.towerpark.cz Without a doubt towering over Prague at 216 m, the tallest building in the city. Climbing the tower’s exterior are 10 giant baby statues by David Černý. E3 The Church of Our Lady before Týn (Chrám Matky Boží před Týnem) q Staroměstské náměstí, Prague 1 w www.tyn.cz One of the most impressive Gothic sacral buildings in Prague with an extensive gallery of Gothic, Renaissance and early Baroque works, e.g. fine altarpieces by Karel Škréta and the tomb of astronomer Tycho Brahe. D3
Airport access: Hlavní nádraží (y C) j Airport Express, trip length approx. 33 minutes Nádraží Veleslavín (y A) j 119, trip length approx. 17 minutes Zličín (y B) j 100, trip length approx. 16 minutes Anděl (y B) j 191, trip length approx. 51 minutes Night bus j 910
Practical information:
Tram k 4, 13, 22, 97, 99 – Vršovické náměstí stop
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With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague.
Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist:
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q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Prague.eu
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist:
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Prague.eu
Prague.eu
q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Prague.eu
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist:
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
Prague.eu
Prague.eu
Green Spaces
Ca és G
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q Prague Castle – Prague 1 – Hradčany
Church of Our Lady of the Snows
q Jungmannovo náměstí 18, Prague 1 – New Town
Church of our Lady before Týn
q Old Town Square, Prague 1 – Old Town
St Ignatius Church
q Ječná 2, Prague 2 – New Town
St Ludmila Church
q náměstí Míru, Prague 2 – Vinohrady © Astacus, s.r.o.
Old Town Square
g 1 Dec-6 Jan The most popular markets, set in the fairy-tale scenery of historic houses; musical performances by folk, ethnic and chil-
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Cathedral of Sts Vitus, Wenceslas and Adalbert
q Josefská 8, Prague 1 – Lesser Town
W
1
Bronislava Vojkovská: Nativity Scene from straw © Nativity Scenes in the Bethlehem Chapel 2017
St Thomas Church
EDEN ARENA
wa ks w w w
q Loretánské náměstí 6, Prague 1 – Hradčany
Café Sladkovský q Sevastopolská 17, Prague 10 – Vršovice w cafesladkovsky.cz One of the first establishments to help heal the battered visage of Vršovice. This distinctive place is inspired by the café atmosphere of the 1930s. By daylight, their breakfast, coffee or lunch is just the thing, while in the evening, Café Sladkovský becomes a bustling local bar. The hot meals are served throughout the day, with a choice of home-made desserts.
Tram k 10, 16, 91 – Vinohradská vodárna stop
wine
Jewish
design
Czech design shops, studios and showrooms prague.eu/design
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Church of the Virgin Mary Angelic
blindly copy the numerous classic Asian bistros, but inventively proce the best of Asian and complementary European cuisine. This makes for great dishes from high quality fresh ingredients in an original restaurant setting.
Metro A y Jiřího z Poděbrad
Emergency phone line: 112 Czech Republic dialling code: +420 x Václav Havel Airport Prague (Letiště Václava Havla Praha) w www.prg.aero, 30 minutes from city centre
Jam and Co. q Krymská 1, Prague 10 – Vršovice w jamandco.cz Asia, taken upmarket a little. At Jam and Co. they don’t just
g 23 Nov-6 Jan Come and experience the Christmas atmosphere in the world’s largest castle complex. A quality range of carefully selected products can be found on the square behind the Cathedral of Sts Vitus, Wenceslas and Adalbert.
ST WENCESLAS CHURCH
How to Get There:
Public holidays in the Czech Republic
A vegan and raw food restaurant where you’ll find an inspired daily menu of exclusively meat-free meals. Taste your choice of dishes, whether traditional or prepared with exotic ingredients. Among the interesting bonuses are dishes made with seasonal wild plants, nature’s own contribution.
design
Czech design shops, studios and showrooms prague.eu/design
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist: q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Czech design shops, studios and showrooms
Prague Castle
SKÁ
1 km
Public toilets – in all Metro stations, usual opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:00–21:00, Sat–Sun 8:00–20:00, longer at central and connecting stations.
Plevel (‘Weeds’) Restaurant
q Krymská 2, Prague 10 – Vršovice w restauraceplevel.cz
Á VRŠOVICK
beer
Top Prague Sights
Café V lese (‘In The Woods’) q Krymská 12, Prague 10 – Vršovice w cafevlese.cz This offbeat cafe helped start the current popularity of Vršovice, or more specifically made Krymská street the epicentre of its contemporary independent culture scene. The rich cultural programme and 1970s retro interior regularly attracts a vibrant mix of patrons. The coffee shop includes a gallery and a music club.
ĎOLÍČEK ARENA
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) q Prague 1 – Hradčany w www.hrad.cz The Prague Castle panorama is one of the most impressive anywhere. One of the largest castle complexes in the world, with historical palaces, church buildings, extensive gardens and picturesque vistas. Prague Castle has for over a thousand years symbolized Czech statehood. Most notable is the Gothic Cathedral of Sts Vitus, Wenceslas and Adalbert (1344). C2
Los v Oslu (‘The Moose in Oslo’) and the Belgian Beer Club q Perunova 17, Prague 3 – Vinohrady w losvoslu.cz This unusually named cosy and stylish restaurant serves Nordic and French cuisine, many kinds of draught Belgian and Czech beers and 50 bottled beer varieties. The popular dishes on the menu include both fresh mussels prepared in any of several ways, and Czech classics such as roast pork ribs or beef sirloin tartar.
Jewish prague.eu/design
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague.
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist: q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Christmas Markets
HUS CONG. HOUSE
VRŠOVICKÉ NÁMĚSTÍ
Charles Bridge (Karlův most) q Prague 1 – Lesser Town, Old Town The oldest and most renowned Prague bridge was built in 1357 by Charles IV. At both ends stand fortified bridge towers – The twin Lesser Town towers and the Old Town tower, which is one of the finest gate towers of Gothic Europe. C3
A Break for Coffee, Lunch or Dinner:
HAVLÍČEK GARDENS
Czech design shops, studios and showrooms
St Nicholas Church (Kostel sv. Mikuláše) q Malostranské náměstí, Prague 1 w www.stnicholas.cz A prime example of Prague Baroque, with distinctive dome and bell tower. The Church is a key part of the panorama, not just the left bank of the Vltava River. While staying in Prague, W. A. Mozart played the organ here. C3
ST NICHOLAS CHURCH
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that carp will be the only choice for their festive meal.
KODAŇ
map
design
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With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist.
Discover the magic of Prague s neighbourhoods with our professional guides! Book your private tour via eshop.prague.eu.
Loreta q Loretánské náměstí 7, Prague 1 w www.loreta.cz A Marian pilgrimage place with replica Holy House, and the Baroque Church of the Nativity. The so-called Loreto treasure is a set of missal objects, the most famous being the Diamond monstrance. B3/2
RANGHERKA
design Czech design shops, studios and showrooms prague.eu/design
Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
design Czech design shops, studios and showrooms prague.eu/design
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist:
NSKÁ
Five walks off the beaten path to places known and unknown 1
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With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist: q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
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Five walks off the beaten path to places known and unknown 1
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q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
HRADEŠÍ
walks
Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist: Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
walks
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centres, where we’ll also be happy to assist: Old Town Hall, q Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Na Můstku, q Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist: q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague.
A week or so before Christmas, huge tubs of water can be seen all over the city, filled with live carp – a future Christmas Eve meal for traditionally-minded Czechs. The ritual of picking out your own live carp and having it killed on the spot or bringing it home alive to swim out its last hours in a bath tub is part and parcel of Czech culture, even though in recent years many have switched from local carp to more exotic (and less bony) fish. Restaurants do, of course, know that the appeal of fried carp is somewhat limited outside our borders, so visitors needn’t worry
then and now design
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you’ll feel right at home in Prague.
then and now
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The Church of Our Lady Victorious – ‘Child of Prague’ (Kostel Panny Marie Vítězné – Pražské Jezulátko) q Karmelitská 9, Prague 1 w www.pragjesu.cz An early Baroque church renowned for its Infant Jesus statue from Spain, donated to the Carmelites by Polyxena of Lobkowitz (1628). C3
VRŠOVICE
Jewish
Jewish
design Czech design shops, studios and showrooms
With Prague City Tourism maps and guides, you‘ll feel right at home in Prague. Pick up these and other titles free of charge at one of our tourist information centers, where we‘ll also be happy to assist: q Old Town Hall, Old Town Square No. 1, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. q Na Můstku, Rytířská No. 12, Prague 1 r daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m
Strahov Monastery (Strahovský klášter) q Strahovské nádvoří 1, Prague 1 w www.strahovskyklaster.cz The Premonstratensian monastery dates from 1140. Its grounds include the heritage Strahov library and Strahov picture gallery, with remarkable collections of Central European Gothic, Rudolfine, Baroque and Rococo works of art. B3
KRYMSKÁ
RUSKÁ
The magic of Christmas Nativity scenes is a traditional highlight of the holidays and a salute to the craftsmanship of our ancestors. Nativity scenes of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem are on display in most churches typically from 24 December to early January, or even longer. Here are some tips:
Old Town Hall and Horologe (Staroměstská radnice s orlojem) q Staroměstské náměstí, Prague 1 w www.prague.eu/oldtownhall The Old Town Hall dates from 1338, presiding over the Old Town. The oldest Gothic part of the complex is the tower and the oriel chapel, as well as the medieval horologe, where every hour between 9:00–23:00 the 12 Apostles are to be seen. D3
This park, inspired by the Italian Renaissance, has dozens of rare trees, and in addition to fountains, water cascades and ponds it has a charming artificial cave, or grotto, and a two-story
KOTĚRA´S VILLA
HRADEŠÍNSKÁ
‘In search of the Nativity scenes’
Public transport w www.dpp.cz z +420 296 19 18 17 Tourist passes for 24 (t CZK 110) or 72 hours (t CZK 310) Municipal Health centre Prague (Městská poliklinika Praha) q Spálená 12, Prague 1 z +420 222 924 295 D3 24 hour Pharmacy q Palackého 5, Prague 1 z +420 224 946 982 D3 Currency: Czech koruna (CZK); 1 euro = approx. 26 CZK coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 CZK banknotes: 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 CZK p Most shops, restaurants, hotels and other services accept major international payment cards. Cash available via a dense network of ATMs.
11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Havlíček Gardens / Havlíčkovy sady (Grébovka)
q Prague 2 – Vinohrady w prague.eu
DYKOVA
Next in importance comes St Nicholas’ Night: On the evening of December 5, St Nicholas (Mikuláš in Czech) and his two sidekicks – a devil and an angel – can be seen roaming the streets, visiting the homes of young children and dispensing sweets and fruit (plus pieces of coal to those whose behaviour has been in need of improvement). Mikuláš casts an imposing figure, wearing a bishop’s robes, mitre, and staff (crozier); his flowy beard is white, like Santa Claus, but there the resemblance ends. After finishing their rounds, the many Nicholases and their entourages can oft be seen partying in the city centre – join them at your own risk.
Main Post Office q Jindřišská 14, Prague 1 z +420 954 211 000 w www.ceskaposta.cz daily 2:00–24:00 D3
g January 1, 2019
The former studio of one of the most significant among Czech sculptors, Ladislav Šaloun, whose works include the Jan Hus Monument on Old Town Square, is one of the jewels of Art Nouveau architecture. It was a popular meeting place for the nation’s artists, among them Ema Destinnová, Alfons Mucha or František Bílek. Today the building is owned by the Academy of Fine Arts and used as a teaching venue for visiting tutors.
HUS CONGREGATIONAL HOUSE SKÁ JIČÍN
SLOVENSKÁ
With a bit of exaggeration, life in Vršovice fills-in between two football stadiums and first division clubs, Slavia Praha and Bohemians Praha 1905. The first-mentioned team plays in the Eden Arena, a modern multi-purpose stadium for up to 21000 while the latter team enthuses their fans on their legendary and more homely-sized pitch, known as “v Ďolíčku” (‘in the Hollow’).
SKÁ
g December 31, 2018 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Šaloun Atelier
q Slovenská 4, Prague 10 – Vinohrady w prague.eu
Ďolíček / Eden Arena
q Vršovická 31 w bohemians.cz / q U Slavie 2a w slavia.cz
JIČÍN
g December 25, 2018 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Kotěra’s Villa q Hradešínská 6, Prague 10 – Vinohrady Lovers of early 20th century modern architecture are sure to appreciate this villa, designed by and built for the renowned architect Jan Kotěra. The building combines natural masonry with rough exterior plaster and is characterized by the strict rational logic of geometric shapes.
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g December 24, 2018 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Vinohrady Water Tower q Korunní 66, Prague 3 – Vinohrady w prague.eu A charming water tower dating from 1882, resembling a romantic folly. This fascinating technical monument was built in the neo-Renaissance style and served for many years as a part of the water infrastructure for the then Royal Vineyards district. It has since been adapted for residential use.
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Old Town Hall – opening hours during Christmas:
And now, hand on heart – how many churches do you know with their own theatre? None? Let us show you one. If you go on from our last stop further south, you will cross the Francouzská boulevard and find yourself in the self-assured Vršovice district, undeniably more rural in character. At the heart of this district, on Vršovické náměstí square, you cannot miss the unusual Hus Congregational House from 1930 by architect Karel Truksa. This one-of-a-kind multifunctional building with elements of functionalism and constructivism combines the sacred character of a temple with a theatre hall for some 300 spectators complete with rehearsal rooms, dressing rooms, make-up rooms and
Other Unmissables:
JIŘÍHO Z PODĚBRAD
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w prague.eu/oldtownhall
p For the respective contact details and opening times see w prague.eu.
CHURCH OF THE MOST SACRED HEART OF OUR LORD
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- Also in the winter you will have a chance to admire nocturnal Prague from the Old Town Hall. Its tower will be open daily till 10 p.m.
So much for an introduction to these no-frills, unfussy yet impressive, elegant and timeless modernist churches of the inter-war period in the Vinohrady-Vršovice agglomeration. Taking the time to see them makes for a pleasing and refreshing contrast to the ‘heavyweight’ historic architecture of central Prague.
Vršovice Chateau (“Rangherka”) q Moskevská 21, Prague 10 – Vršovice w prague.eu The impressive neo-Renaissance building stands on the edge of the Heroldovy sady park, named after its first owner, the Italian silk merchant, Guiseppe Rangheri. Over time, the building has served as a school, a museum and as the offices of various authorities, in particular the Vršovice Town Hall. Recently, the Manor has undergone extensive renovation and serves as a home for seniors and a ceremonial hall.
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- Till January 6, 2019 you can visit an exhibition featuring photographs and historical artefacts from the recent repair of the Old Town Hall.
St Nicholas Church q Vršovické náměstí, Prague 10 – Vršovice w prague.eu This originally Gothic church has undergone many changes, including extensive internal modifications. It is currently one of the dominant features of the centre of Vršovice and among the oldest monuments in Prague 10.
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- Let our guides take you on an interesting evening tour or an engaging family tour.
About 300 metres to the south in Dykova street is another notable building, the Hus Congregational House in Vinohrady, a complex comprising a Hussite prayer house, residential building and elegant six storey tower. It was built in the 1930s by architect Pavel Janák in the then upcoming and innovative constructivist style. The said tower, which seems from a distance reminiscent of the cautionary finger of God, is an open reinforced concrete bell-tower with a spiral staircase in the middle leading to the very top. The unexpectedly modern interior of the prayer house is impressive for its well-considered layout – resembling an amphitheatre sloping toward the presbytery, with all-round good visibility of the preacher.
Moreover, just a few steps away on Náměstí Svatopluka Čecha square, the white prismatic rectangular bell-tower of St Wenceslas Church stands lighthouse-like above the stormysea roof cascades of Vršovice. This jewel of Prague’s sacral modernism is considered by the experts to be one of the best functionalist religious buildings in Czechia. The author of this showpiece project of 1929 was the architect Josef Gočár, who shrewdly took advantage of the sloping terrain to create a threetier cascade with a high semi-circular chancel. Incidentally, it is worth noting that this is the first ever Czech church built with reinforced concrete – the extensive interior makes no use of pillars or other supporting elements. No less interesting is the approach taken to lighting in the temple – the sun’s rays shine in trough wide roof windows and the light intensity increases towards the main altar, creating a perfect optical illusion of limitless space.
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- Please accept a Christmas gift from Prague City Tourism and enjoy Advent time listening to traditional Christmas Concert in the magical atmosphere of the Chapel of the Virgin Mary.
neo-Renaissance villa. The grounds also include the former performance Pavilion (now the Garden Café) and the magnificent wooden gazebo, where you can enjoy the season’s wine from the vineyard growing right beneath you.
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We are joining in to celebrate the Christmas season and welcome you to our events at the Old Town Hall:
Vinohrady, as an extensive district covering the former vineyards to the east of the city centre, dates from the end of the 18th century. Today’s chic district reminiscent of Vieux Paris originated at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, gradually developing its orderly urban concept of historically-themed and Art Nouveau houses in rectangular tenement blocks. This also encompassed large public spaces. One of these, the Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad square, came to include one of the most notable modernist places of worship – the Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord. The highly esteemed Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik sought through this edifice to combine the spirit of ancient and proto-Christian temples with a 20th century church design. This he achieved in every respect. This monumental sacral work evocative of Noah’s Ark commands attention, not least by its 40-metre tower bearing the largest glass clock in the Czech Republic (7.5 metres across) and its unusual combinations of tiles and granite on the façade. No surprise then that Plečnik’s temple is latterly being considered for a place on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list.
administrative offices. The dominant feature of the prayer house of the Czechoslovak Hussite Church is a massive, four-sided, almost 26-metre-high tower, finished off with a stylized foursided chalice and cross.
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Christmas with Prague City Tourism
You may be asking what the refined and residential district of Vinohrady could possibly have in common with its neighbouring, once working-class and somewhat overlooked district of Vršovice? Any ideas? Make no mistake – this seemingly incongruous pair of Prague districts has more in common that you might think. One of the most visible points of common ground is the untypical abundance of modernist inter-war church architecture. These original, innovative and, in their time daring church buildings are now an inherent and much-admired aspect of the scintillating architectural mosaic of our capital city.
Area: 496 km2 Population: 1,290,000 Geographical location: 50° 05‘ 19‘‘ North, 14° 25‘ 17‘‘ East, 235 m above sea level (avg.) Time zone: Central European Time (GMT +1) – CET daylight saving time +1 (GMT +2) Climate: Central European, temperate with 4 seasons Vltava River flows through the city for 31 km, widest point 330 m Historical centre: Prague Castle (Hradčany), Lesser Town (Malá Strana), Old Town (Staré Město), New Town (Nové Město) and Vyšehrad
St Wenceslas Church in Vršovice district
1 Jan – New Year’s Day, Czech State Day Good Friday and Easter Monday (moveable feast) 1 May – Labour Day 8 May – Victory Day 5 July – Day of the Slavic missionaries Cyril & Methodius 6 July – Master John Hus Immolation Day 28 Sept – Czech Statehood Day 28 Oct – Czechoslovak State Inception Day 17 Nov – Freedom and Democracy Day 24 Dec – Christmas Eve 25 Dec – Christmas Day 26 Dec – St Stephen’s Day
Book in person at the Guide Office or at our Tourist information centres or visit w eshop.prague.eu/walkingtours
St Matthew Church
q U Matěje, Prague 6 – Dejvice
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St Anthony of Padua Church
q Strossmayerovo náměstí, Prague 7 – Holešovice
p For more information, go to w prague.eu/christmas
© Prague City Tourism, Arbesovo nám. 70/4, 150 00 Praha 5, CZ editorial closing date: 2 November, 2018; content subject to change
g to 30 Jun q National Museum – Historical Building, Wenceslas Square 68, Prague 1 – New Town w nm.cz An engaging exhibition telling the story of how the seemingly unrealistic initiative to create Czechoslovakia became a reality. It brings out the history of the shared State of the Czechs and Slovaks; showing our common ground and our differences. 1200 items, supplemented with audio-visual documents and interactive elements, to remind of life in Czechoslovakia, its values and its inspirational international legacy.
Bonjour, Monsieur Gauguin: Czech Artists in Brittany (1850-1950) g to 17 Mar q National Gallery Prague – Kinsky Palace, Old Town Square 12, Prague 1 – Old Town w ngprague.cz The exhibition maps the presence of Czech artists in this fabled destination at the turn of the 19th and 20th century. The works of the Czech classics – such as Antonín Chitussi, Alfons Mucha, Josef Čapek, Toyen, František Kupka or Jan Zrzavý are complemented by works by international artists like Paul Gauguin, Paul Sérusier, Emil Bernard or Charles Filiger.
Prague of Charles IV: A Medieval City
The Apotheosis of the Slavs (subtitle Slavs for Mankind), 1926, egg tempera, oil, canvas, 480 × 405 cm, © Prague City Gallery
g permanent exhibition q The City of Prague Museum – House at the Golden Ring, Týnská 6, Prague 1 – Old Town w muzeumprahy.cz This second part of the exhibition follows on from the initial successful exhibition: ‘A Grandiose Building Site in Europe’. The emphasis is laid on bringing us closer to the life of medieval citizenry, to the intimacy of private life in a medieval house. Contributing to the exhibition’s appeal are a variety of models (physical and virtual), computer visualization, and ever-popular videomapping.
Alphonse Mucha: The Slav Epic g to 13 Jan q Municipal House, náměstí Republiky 5, Prague 1 – Old Town w ghmp.cz This flagship work by Mucha is being displayed in one of the most representative settings Prague has to offer, its Art Nouveau character very much related to the artist’s decorative work. On show are 11 of the more manageable sized works, painted during and after WWI, at a time when Mucha had to scale down the intended monumental dimensions in view of limited supplies of canvas from Belgium. The display layout allows visitors to get a more accurate idea of the technical execution of the works and also to find out how such canvasses are stretched on the frame. The exhibition is organized by the Prague City Gallery.
Koudelka: Invasion 68 & archival footage by Jan Němec g to 6 Jan q National Gallery Prague – Trade Fair Palace, Dukelských hrdinů 47, Prague 7 – Holešovice w ngprague.cz The set of photos by Josef Koudelka captures the Warsaw Pact invasion as seen in Prague, a sudden catastrophe that fundamentally altered the fates of our fellow citizens. The pictures, taken over several dramatic days, have become a symbol of national tragedy, but also of the struggle for freedom.
Pablo Picasso: Passion and Guilt g to 15 Jan q Museum Kampa, U Sovových mlýnů 2, Prague 1 – Lesser Town w museumkampa.cz The exhibition brings the extensive graphics of La Suite Vollard from the collections of the renowned Queen Sofia Museum in Madrid. Picasso’s graphic sheets speak not only of his tumultuous personal life, but also reflect the role of art in response to the then ever darker political situation in Europe.
g 28 Nov-2 Dec q Prague Congress Centre, 5. května 65, Prague 4 – Nusle w czdw.cz A showcase of designs by independent authors. On display are selected works by Czech and international designers, with the emphasis on realism, and a personal approach. Come and see the best of Czech glass, porcelain, jewellery, children’s interiors, original toys as well as graphic and industrial design.
g 27 & 28 Feb; 1 Mar q Rudolfinum, Alšovo nábřeží embankment 79/12, Prague 1 – Old Town w ceskafilharmonie.cz In his début performance with the Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle, one of the most respected conductors of the present day, will bring works by Antonín Dvořák and Gustav Mahler whose Song of the Earth features soloists Magdalena Kožená and Simon O’Neill.
Dyzajn Market – winter g 8 & 9 Dec; 15 & 16 Dec q Václav Havel Square, Prague 1 – New Town w dyzajnmarket.com The largest open-air sales exhibition of designer creativity. Spend this year’s Christmas shopping a little differently – go original, and well away from crowded shopping malls. You can enjoy onestop gift-shopping at Dyzajn Market without jostling, queuing and, what’s more, you’ll be out in the fresh air.
František Kupka (1871–1957) g to 20 Jan q National Gallery Prague, Wallenstein Riding Hall, Valdštejnská 3, Prague 1 – Lesser Town w ngprague.cz An extensive exhibition presenting the work of this Czech painter of world renown in all its scope, from his early works of the 1890s to the abstract works of the 1950s.
Christmas Concert of the State Opera g 17 & 18 Dec q Forum Karlín, Pernerova 53, Prague 8 – Karlín w narodni-divadlo.cz A get-together of three composers (Mozart, Dohnányi, Fišer) with outstanding artists, like soprano Simona Šaturová and the pianist Marek Kozák, a well-established member of the European musical elite, despite his youth.
g 1-9 Dec q O2 arena, Prague, Českomoravská 17, Prague 9 – Vysočany w ceskyflorbal.cz Ten years on, the Czech Republic once again hosts the world’s greatest floorball event – the Men’s World Championship. 16 of the best teams, great floorball stars, elite matches, dramatic moments – all to be seen in the capital in early December.
Classical Music
g 13-16 Dec q O2 arena, Českomoravská 17, Prague 9 – Vysočany w pragueplayoffs.com A show-jumping gala. An exceptional sports event, with the best riders and horses of the show-jumping world. Prague is set to take its place among the exclusive venues that make up the prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour and Global Champions League.
Alfred Nikodém Memorial Race g 26 Dec q Vltava river w otuzilci-praha.cz The oldest cold-endurance event in the Czech Republic and among the most popular contests in the capital. The icy waters of the Vltava river at Christmas welcome domestic and visiting swimmers for the stretch between Střelecký ‘Shooters’ and Slovanský ‘Slavonic’ islands.
Other Musical Genres
Prague Spring International Music Festival 2019 g 12 Dec q advance tickets w festival.cz One of the most famous music events in the country, albeit held in the Spring, traditionally starts with advance ticket sales on 12 December.
Joseph Haydn: The Creation g 12 & 13 Dec q Smetana Hall of the Municipal House, Republic Square 5, Prague 1 – Old Town w fok.cz Haydn’s supreme work performed by leading children’s choirs under the baton of conductor Jac van Steen.
PKF - Prague Philharmonia: Beethoven. Strauss. Penderecki g 15 Jan q Rudolfinum, Alšovo nábřeží embankment 79/12, Prague 1 – Old Town w pkf.cz Compositions by Erich Wolfgang Korngold, Krzyzstof Penderecki, Richard Strauss, plus the 7th Symphony (´Pathétique´) by Ludwig van Beethoven – the attractive programme of the PKF – Prague Philharmonia January concert.
Serenades g 7 Feb q Rudolfinum, Alšovo nábřeží embankment 79/12, Prague 1 – Old Town w collegium1704.com Hear two great serenades by two great composers,
Prague Symphony Orchestra FOK: Christmas Concert
Třešť Nativity Scenes in the Jindřišská Tower
g 19 & 20 Dec q Smetana Hall of the Municipal House, Republic Square 5, Prague 1 – Old Town w fok.cz Tune in on a festive note with the Prague Symphony “Film-OperaKoncert” orchestra, with Japanese violinist Daishin Kashimoto.
g 30 Nov-2 Feb q Jindřišská Tower, Jindřišská, Prague 1 – New Town w jindrisskavez.cz Hand-carved Nativity scenes perfumed with fresh moss and pine needles showcase the dexterity of scenic woodcarvers from Třešť. The Christmas mood of Třešť Nativity scenes is there for visitors to admire on the 2nd and 3rd floor of Jindřišská Tower.
Advent Gospel 2018
PlayOffs Global Champions League 2018
g 7 & 8 Dec; other dates on the theatre website q Jatka78, Bubenské nábřeží embankment 13, Prague 7 – Holešovice w jatka78.cz A new-cirque poem on angels and mankind, confronting Heaven and Earth, birth and death, memories and the present, rises and falls. This iconic performance by the Cirkus La Putyka is distinctively designed – orchestration by Jan Maxián accompanied by the Film Philharmonic Orchestra, well versed with live concerts of film music.
g 31 Jan, 1 & 2 Feb; other dates on the theatre website q National Theatre, Národní 4, Prague 1 – New Town w narodni-divadlo.cz An evening of three different international choreography works. The opening Serenade by George Balanchine and closing Rite of Spring by Glen Tetley have their treasured places in world ballet. In-between, a new Opus entitled Separate Knots, seen for the
g 22 Nov-2 Dec q Prague – various venues w firkusny.cz Six dramatic performances brought by this festival. The opening concert, starring jazz piano legend Monty Alexander, takes the event to a different level. Also featured are Piotr Anderszewski, the KBS Symphony Orchestra and South Korean pianist Yekwon Sunwoo, Grigory Sokolov, Miroslav Sekera and Paul Lewis.
g to 20 Jan q Museum of Decorative Arts, 17. listopadu 2, Prague 1 – Old Town w upm.cz Salon Podolská was the most popular and best-known fashion salon of inter-war Czech society. The exhibition lets you revisit a haute couture salon from the First Republic with fifty original styles and a range of accessories.
Up End Down Symphony
Timeless
g 11 Dec q Rudolfinum, Alšovo nábřeží embankment 79/12, Prague 1 – Old Town w collegium1704.com This suite of six cantatas by J.S. Bach is among the composer’s most well-known works. Only seldom do we get to hear all six cantatas at one concert and enjoy the beautiful music of this suite in all its glory.
Hana Podolská, a Czech fashion legend
g 4 Dec q Prague Congress Centre, 5. května 65, Prague 4 – Nusle w praguecc.cz Members of the renowned Russian Ballet School present this legendary Ballet by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. This world-famous ensemble follows-on from its much-lauded Prague appearances of recent years, once again sending us their best.
g première 24 Jan; other dates on the theatre website q National Theatre, Národní 4, Prague 1 – New Town w narodni-divadlo.cz This opera from 1927 juxtaposes in quick succession scenes of expressionism with elements of slapstick and crime films, while the music ranges between grand neoromantic expanses and dance-rhythm influenced jazz. The production is in the original German. Czech and German surtitles are provided.
Christmas Oratorio
Men’s Floorball World Championship 2018
g to 6 Jan q Museum of Decorative Arts, 17. listopadu 2, Prague 1 – Old Town w upm.cz “Krásná jizba” (beautiful room) was a movement in the vanguard of Czech residential culture and design in the first half of the 20th century. The exhibition shows artefacts from a variety of materials – beverage glassware, textiles, porcelain dinnerware, pottery, cutlery and metal tableware, desk items, lamps and a many other interior accessories.
Royal Moscow Ballet: Swan Lake
Jonny Plays (Jonny spielt auf)
g 2, 9, 16 & 23 Dec q National Theatre, Národní 2, Prague 1 – New Town w narodni-divadlo.cz Traditional concerts in this most significant theatre, complete with festive music and the Czech Christmas Mass by Jakub Jan Ryba. Performed by the Kühn Children’s Choir and the National Theatre Orchestra.
Rudolf Firkušný Piano Festival
Sport
Design for Democracy / Krásná jizba 1927-1948
Advent Concerts at the National Theatre
Festivals
The Czech Philharmonic & Simon Rattle
Zahrada (‘The Garden’)
František Kupka: Ballad (Joys of Life), 1901-1902, oil, wood, National Gallery Prague
Exhibitions
g 16 Feb q Rudolfinum, Alšovo nábřeží embankment 79/12, Prague 1 – Old Town w socr.rozhlas.cz Can anyone not have heard “Summertime”? When the hugely successful composer George Gershwin wrote the opera Porgy & Bess in the 1930s featuring the aforementioned song, it did not go down altogether well. Today it is a classic and perhaps the most popular American opera.
Theatre, Ballet, Opera…
g premières 20 & 21 Dec; other dates on the theatre website q National Theatre – New Stage, Národní 4, Prague 1 – New Town w narodni-divadlo.cz An original project to mark the anniversary of the Laterna Magika, for the whole family, freely inspired by the Garden of Jiří Trnka and the childhood garden memories of the production team and dancers.
g 17 & 19 Feb q Forum Karlín, Pernerova 53, Prague 8 – Karlín w forumkarlin.cz This spontaneous and uninhibited artist – real name Isabelle Geffroy – has charmed the world with songs that combine the tradition of Gypsy jazz, French chansons, Melodic Pop, Swing and Street, all with a dash of Latino and Flamenco.
George Gershwin: Porgy & Bess
Czech Design Week Autumn 2018
Christmas & New Year Concerts
Zaz
Smokie g 8 Dec q Tipsport arena Praha, Za Elektrárnou 419, Prague 7 – Holešovice w tipsportarena-praha.cz Join us in tribute to a legend among musical legends. A fantastic show of greatest hits, complete with a Symphony Orchestra.
Aurora g 17 Jan q Forum Karlín, Pernerova 53, Prague 8 – Karlín w forumkarlin.cz This young Norwegian Grammy Awards winning musician has twice before captivated fans at the Colours of Ostrava festival. This time she heads straight to the Czech capital, bringing her moody dark pop-music along.
Chanticleer g 31 Jan q Rudolfinum, Alšovo nábřeží embankment 79/12, Prague 1 – Old Town w prague.eu The American choir Chanticleer – holder of three Grammy Awards – has even been called the best male choir in the world. Their Prague programme entitled “THEN and THERE – HERE and
‘Czech Touches of Music’ g 16 Dec-6 Jan q Prague – various venues w ceskedotekyhudby.cz The largest Prague festival focused on classical music in the winter season offering orchestral music, old and chamber music or a crossover. The gala opening concert takes place annually at Prague Castle on the day of the birth of Ludwig van Beethoven and the final performance at the Municipal House on Twelfth Night, the feast of the Three Kings.
Grand Restaurant Festival 2019 g 15 Jan-28 Feb q Prague – various venues w grandrestaurantfestival.cz A gourmet feast where aficionados of high-quality food can visit the grand and sometimes pricier establishments. Get to taste the specialities of the best and most interesting restaurants as listed in the Maurer’s Grand Restaurant Guide, at discounted Festival prices.
Christmas
g 19 & 20 Dec q St Anna Church – Prague Crossroad Centre, Liliová, Prague 1 – Old Town w prazskakrizovatka.cz The outstanding Gospel ensemble Stella Jones & The Christmas Singers returns to Czechia. The group brings together a variety of talents with unique vocal abilities, which in conjunction with traditional gospel elements makes for an intense cultural experience.
Jakub Jan Ryba: Czech Christmas Mass g 25 Dec q St Simon and Jude Church, Dušní, Prague 1 – Old Town w fok.cz The traditional Mass by Ryba performed by the Prague Symphony Orchestra.
Prague Symphony Orchestra FOK: New Year’s Concert g 1 Jan q Smetana Hall of the Municipal House, Republic Square 5, Prague 1 – Old Town w fok.cz The coming of the New Year is always festive, cheery and full of positive expectations. The mood is well matched by the Slavonic Dances of Antonín Dvořák, as regularly revisited at New Year by the Prague Symphony Orchestra.
Czech Philharmonic: New Year’s Concert g 1 Jan q Rudolfinum, Alšovo nábřeží embankment 79/12, Prague 1 – Old Town w ceskafilharmonie.cz Come and hear the works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, George Bizet, Guiseppe Verdi, Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and others.
Christmas Exhibitions Playful Christmas 2018
Christmas time in Prague comes with a wealth of cultural offerings. In addition to the events listed below, get inspired from our thematic pages at w prague.eu/christmas.
g 24 Nov-6 Jan q New Town Hall, Karlovo náměstí 1/23, Prague 2 – New Town w nrpraha.cz An exhibition of oils and graphic sheets by the well-known actress and artist, held to commemorate her notable anniversary. Iva Hüttnerová has been painting for nearly 50 years, and in that time has held many exhibitions at home and abroad.
© Iva Hüttnerová, Christmas Market
Czech-Slovak / Slovak-Czech exhibition
Design
Iva Hüttnerová: Paintings
NOW” features their most successful compositions during the group’s 40 years.
© Czech Floorball
Try our selection of the most interesting events taking place in Prague from mid-late November 2018 to early March 2019. Dozens of others are listed on our website w prague.eu, where you can also find more detailed information, programmes, tickets, etc.
representatives of different stylistic eras at a concert dedicated to the sound of wind instruments. The music of Mozart and of Dvořák features brilliant melodic invention and exceptional listening pleasure. Let your own ears take note.
Paul Lewis © Josep Molina
g to 24 Feb q National Museum – New Building, Vinohradská 1, Prague 1 – New Town w nm.cz You’ll learn about not only the spiritual and mundane life of the Celtic tribes, but also become acquainted with the rich and changeable, nay malleable, Iron Age period in Central Europe, and its advanced La Tène culture. You can look forward to many singular objects, long-unshown originals and innovative audiovisual presentations.
first time and especially written for the National Theatre Ballet ensemble by contemporary Israeli choreographer Emanuel Gat.
© Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague
Calendar of Events
The Celts
g 24 Nov-2 Jan q Bethlehem Chapel, Betlémské náměstí 4, Prague 1 – Old Town w vanocnivystava.cz This traditional display in the Bethlehem Chapel will focus on Christmas time as a time of great generosity. Children look forward to new playthings from under the Christmas tree. Toys of all kinds are thus the main theme of the current exhibition.
Exhibition of Historical and Contemporary Nativity Scenes g 1 Dec-2 Jan q Ambit Gallery – Church of Our Lady of the Snows, Jungmannovo náměstí 18, Prague 1 – New Town w betlemklub.cz Many old and new Nativity scenes including a moving mechanical one by Jiří Votruba (4.5m long) and one built to Třešť designs, with historical figurines by the wood carver Boudný (3 x 2.5m).
Christmas Folk Traditions g 30 Nov-3 Jan q Botanical Garden of the Natural Science Faculty of Charles University, Na Slupi 16, Prague 2 – New Town w vanocni-vystava.cz Visit the fairy-tale world of Christmas, with Nativity scenes, a devil’s flea market, angelic scenery, a great gingerbread house, miniature landscapes with dwarves and other characters, a mouse house, wooden spoon theatre and many other lovely things.
Christmas Theatre Royal Moscow Ballet: The Nutcracker g 5 Dec q Prague Congress Centre, 5. května 65, Prague 4 – Nusle w praguecc.cz This world-famous ballet by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky is a fairy tale Christmas story taking us into a world full of childhood imagination. Representatives of the renowned Russian ballet school build on their successful performances of years past when they sold out major venues to great acclaim.
The Nutcracker: A Christmas Story g 6, 11 & 12 Dec; other dates on the theatre website q National Theatre, Národní 2, Prague 1 – New Town w narodni-divadlo.cz This Christmas fairy-tale with its magical music has been a favourite children’s ballet ever since it first opened. The impressive performance has for many years enriched the festive atmosphere of Prague, greatly appreciated by not just the little ones.
New Year’s Eve with Mozart g 31 Dec q The Estates Theatre, Železná, Prague 1 – Old Town w narodni-divadlo.cz Let yourself be drawn into the era of classicism and celebrate the New Year in the spirit of Mozart. Enjoy the most popular operatic arias by the musical maestro, a rich buffet, a New Year’s drink and a dance on the stage to live accompaniment.
Other Events The Lamp-lighter on Charles Bridge g 1-23 Dec q Charles Bridge, Prague 1 – Old Town w prague.eu As in previous years, in the run-up to Christmas you have the chance to come across a man dressed as a historical lamplighter on Charles Bridge around 4 pm, lighting the gas lamps with a long rod.
New Year Fireworks g 1 Jan from 6 pm q Prague – city centre w prague.eu Breath-taking celestial choreography over the metropolis; an unforgettable start to 2019.
Three Kings Procession g 6 Jan from 2 pm q Prague – city centre w praha.charita.cz From Malostranské náměstí the Three Kings ride on camels across Charles Bridge to Old Town Square, there to hear the Czech Christmas Mass by Jakub Jan Ryba.