There is something special to be found in a city which has been newly discovered by the West. Prague is transforming into modern Europe, yet remains timeless in its charm and beauty. The possible extraordinary experiences are endless in this gorgeous city.
The first impression is breathtaking. Walking can be precarious in Prague as you find yourself looking up to marvel at the ornate architecture. Gargoyles, spires, and statues cling to the corners and rooftops of the centuries-old buildings.
Prague was one of the few European cities to remain relatively intact after World War II. The unique and spectacular architecture left standing is reason enough to visit the city.
Going beyond the architecture, Prague offers some of the finest opportunities in the world to experience world-class music in an intimate setting.
The city has a great and proud musical tradition with its best known composer, Antonín Dvorak. Even Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was enraptured by Prague. It was there that he held the world premiere of his opera, Don Giovanni, in 1787.
Mozart’s Symphony No. 38, or the Prague Symphony, was written in 1786 for the city. He felt the people there appreciated his music more than any other European city, including Vienna, where he spent most of his life.
Prague is home to nine principal orchestras along with several Baroque ensembles and choirs. There is an air of casualness about the classical music scene. Concerts are often free or impromptu and tourist attire is generally suitable. However, if attending a concert in one of the churches or cathedrals you are expected to dress appropriately.
Examples of famous music venues include The Smetana Concert Hall, which is a spectacular art-nouveau building. Other music venues include the Prague Castle which offers free concerts within the castle grounds. The Mirror Chapel in The Klementinum is a complex of buildings that dates back to the 1200s, where Mozart played one of the organs. Churches may also have free concerts or may grant visitors free admission during rehearsals.
St. Nicholas Church was completed in 1735 and stands on one corner of Old Town Square. It is not only magnificent to see with its white façade and ornately decorated walls, but is also one of the premier acoustical experiences in the city. Classical concerts are popular here and, with early arrival, you may find yourself sitting in the front row experiencing Mozart’s Requiem. The lead soprano will practically be in your lap and, if you feel mischievous enough, you might just lean forward to pluck a few notes on the first violin.
The conductor will pause between each movement to allow the notes to echo through the church, high up into the corners of the rafters. This alone will bring a smile from deep inside, every time.
This breathtaking city is full of moments like these, allowing you to experience beauty, music, and a passion for the arts that lives only on the periphery of most cities.
You can experience Prague and many other world cities on the 16-day Capitals of Central Europe Tour by Image Tours Inc.!