I was lucky enough to return to Gracia in 2023 to stay for the entire length of the festival and take part in a multitude of activities throughout the festival, enabling me to share with you all the incredible aspects of this incredible Spanish festival.

Your Ultimate Guide to Barcelona’s Gràcia Festival

1. About the Festival
2. About the Gràcia Neighbourhood
3. History of the Festival
   • Civil War and Modern Resurgence
4. When Does the Festival Take Place?
5. How to Get There
6. Do You Need Tickets?
7. Where to Explore?
8. How to Respect the Community & Be a Good Visitor
9. Events at the Gracia Festival
   • The Grand Opening
   • Castellers, the human towers of Gràcia
   • The Gràcia Correfoc or Firerun
     • History of Correfoc
   • Musical Stages and Performances
10. How to Navigate the Crowds
11. Food and Drinks
    • Happy Travels, Adventurers, and see you at the Festa!

About the Festival

The Gracia Festival, or Festa Major de Gracia, is an annual event that dates back to the 19th century. It’s a time when the community comes together to decorate their streets in the most imaginative ways possible. Each street in Gracia competes for the title of the best-decorated street, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. Themes range from whimsical fairy tales to intricate historical recreations and movies, all crafted with incredible attention to detail.

The Festival also emphasizes sustainability and environmental awareness. Recently, a concerted effort has been made to use recycled materials for decorations and promote eco-friendly practices among participants and visitors.

Residents themselves organize the creation and installation of the decorations and, throughout the entire year, hold events to bring together the community to raise money and take part in creating these fantastical street installations. The festival is also packed with activities and events for all the family, so there is always something to do throughout the week-long festival.

As you explore Gracia, you’ll find yourself mesmerized by the creativity and effort that goes into each street’s decorations. One street might transport you to an underwater world, complete with paper-mâché sea creatures and shimmering blue lights. Another might recreate a medieval castle, with towering cardboard turrets and knights in shining armor. The ingenuity and craftsmanship on display are truly awe-inspiring.

About the Gràcia Neighbourhood

The Gracia neighbourhood, known for its bohemian charm and vibrant cultural scene, is one of Barcelona‘s most beloved districts. Its origins date back to the early 17th century, when it was established as a small rural village outside the walls of Barcelona. Initially, it was known as “Villa de Gracia,” a name derived from the Nuestra Señora de Gracia Convent, around which the village grew.

Throughout the 19th century, Gracia underwent significant transformations. As Barcelona expanded, the once-separate village began to attract artisans, workers, and intellectuals seeking a quieter, more affordable alternative to the crowded city center. Despite Gracia’s eventual incorporation into the greater city of Barcelona, Gracia retained its distinct character, with narrow streets, small squares, and a strong sense of local identity, including the iconic Gracia Festival.

History of the Festival

Held annually in the Gracia neighbourhood, this vibrant festival has a rich history that reflects the community’s creative spirit and deep-rooted traditions. The origins of the Gracia Festival can be traced back to the early 19th century. The festival began as a local celebration honouring the Assumption of Mary, the patron saint of the Gracia neighbourhood. This religious event, held on August 15th, gradually became a broader community celebration as the neighbourhood grew and diversified.

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The festival was marked by processions, religious ceremonies, and communal feasts. However, what set the Gracia Festival apart from other local celebrations was the unique tradition of street decoration. Residents began to adorn their streets with handmade decorations, transforming the neighbourhood into a stunning open-air exhibition of creativity and craftsmanship. This period also saw the establishment of neighbourhood associations, or “commissions de festes,” which played a crucial role in organizing the festival. These associations were responsible for planning events, coordinating street decorations, and fostering a sense of community spirit. The friendly competition between different streets to create the most impressive decorations became a hallmark of the festival.

Civil War and Modern Resurgence

During the Spanish Civil War and the subsequent Franco dictatorship, the Gracia Festival faced significant challenges. Political repression suppressed the festival, and many traditional activities were curtailed. However, the community’s resilient spirit ensured that the festival endured, even in a more subdued form. With the return of democracy in the late 1970s, the Gracia Festival experienced a renaissance. The restoration of civil liberties allowed for a resurgence of cultural and artistic expression. The festival once again became a vibrant celebration of community and creativity, attracting participants and visitors from across Barcelona and beyond.

When Does the Festival Take Place?

The Festa Major de Gracia always takes place in August. The official dates for 2024 are August 15th 15th to August 21stst. The best place to find the most updated information on the Festa Major de Gracia is through their website or their social media accounts.

How to Get There

The Gràcia festival takes place across the entire barrio (Catalan word for neighbourhood), but the best place to start is in one of the large squares, where you can pick up your copy of the festival guide. Even though these guides are in Catalan only, I find the map easy to follow even for non-Catalan speakers.

To make your way to the Festa Major de Gracia, hop on the metro and get off at Fontana station on the Green Line, L3. This metro stop will land you right at the heart of Gràcia. Do not try to drive the car anywhere near the festival. So many streets are completely closed to traffic, even for the locals, as this is where they set up for the festival installations, and many other streets are closed for visitors and pedestrians.

Do You Need Tickets?

The Festa Major de Gracia is completely FREE! There is no need to purchase tickets in advance or at the festival. The program guide will cost you just one euro\, and while you can also use the app for free, the money for your program is also a donation to the festival organizers, so I’d recommend picking one up! In addition, they often have some festival merchandise such as drink cups and t-shirts for sale, which are another great way to give back to the festival organizers.

Where to Explore?

When you arrive in Gràcia, seek out a festival information station in Fontana Square, where you can grab a map of the street to visit. If you prefer, you can also download a handy-dandy app that will tell you what you’ll find around the various streets and how to get there. Although every street is worth seeing, the most famous streets that have won the “best street award” year after year are the Carrer de Joan Blanques and Carrer de Verdi. There are over 20 streets and squares around Gràcia that participate in the festival, and since Gracia is such a small neighbourhood, you can easily just wander and explore, and you’ll easily come across dozens of multicoloured streets that transport you around the world in one place!

How to Respect the Community & Be a Good Visitor

As a visitor to the Gracia Festival or Festa Major de Gracia, respecting the local community and their cherished traditions is essential. Barcelona has seen an influx of tourism in recent years. While the city welcomes visitors, there’s a growing sentiment among locals to preserve the character and tranquillity of their neighbourhoods.

To show respect, always dispose of litter properly and avoid excessive noise, especially late at night, even if you see others doing the opposite. Remember, you are a guest and should feel honoured to be welcomed into this space.

Engage with the festival in a way that honours the efforts of the residents who have painstakingly prepared their streets—admire the decorations without damaging them and follow any guidelines set by the organizers. But the most important thing to remember is to help support local businesses by purchasing food, drinks, and souvenirs from neighbourhood vendors, contributing positively to the local economy.

Events at the Gracia Festival

While the primary draw to the Festival is to explore the brightly coloured street decorations, the Festival’s program has expanded to include various activities, such as concerts, theatrical performances, and sporting events.

The Grand Opening

The Festival starts with a grand parade that winds through the neighbourhood’s narrow streets. Giant puppets, dancers, and musicians lead the procession, creating a festive atmosphere that immediately draws you in. People wear enormous papier-mache heads called ‘capgrossos’ and dance throughout the streets. People walk on stilts, and musicians entertain the crowds throughout the day. It feels like a giant circus pouring through the city’s narrow streets.

Castellers, the human towers of Gràcia

The Gràcia festival features one of the most traditional Catalan events, Castells. The tradition of building human towers, known as “castells,” is one of Catalonia’s most unique and awe-inspiring cultural practices. Castellers, the skilled participants of this art form, gather in Gracia’s town squares to construct a human tower by stacking layers of people, one on top of another, in a precise and coordinated manner. The formation begins with the “pinya,” and subsequent layers, or “tronc,” are built by progressively smaller and lighter castellers. Each layer stands on the shoulders of the layer below, carefully balancing and supporting one another. The higher levels require exceptional balance, strength, and trust among the castellers.

During one of the festival nights, they have an event called the Baixada del Pilar Caminat, where they not only build a tower made of humans but also move it between two plazas. It’s a nerve-bending feat of human aptitude and an entertaining performance to see live!

The Gràcia Correfoc or Firerun

The correfoc, or fire run, is a thrilling highlight of the festival and my personal favourite moment throughout the week. During the Correfoc, the streets of Gracia are plunged into a dramatic display of fire and pyrotechnics. Participants, known as “diables” (devils), dress in elaborate costumes and masks, carrying pitchforks and other devices that shoot sparks and fireworks. Often, these devils are little children, which might come as a surprise, but since this tradition is passed on through generations, kids must take part even from an early age.

The event begins with the “tabalada,” a drumming performance that sets the pace and builds anticipation. As the drumming reaches a crescendo, the diables emerge, and the Correfoc begins. The drummers walk through the streets with the devils, creating the most rhythmic beats to match the bangs of the fireworks. It’s incredibly theatrical, unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere! The event starts very early in the morning, which is no doubt a shock to the locals who didn’t check the schedule, who will be rudely awoken at 9 am to the shrieks and bangs of the fireworks.

History of Correfoc

The origins of Correfoc can be traced back to medieval Catalonia. It evolved from the traditional “Ball de Diables” (Devil’s Dance), which depicted the eternal struggle between good and evil. Initially performed during religious and community celebrations, these performances involved characters representing devils, angels, and other mythological figures. Over time, the fire elements were incorporated, giving birth to the modern Correfoc. The Correfoc also serves as a symbolic representation of the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil.

Musical Stages and Performances

As the sun sets, the festival takes on a new dimension. Streets are illuminated with colourful lights, and the sounds of live music fill the air. Each night, different bands and performers take to the stage, offering diverse music, from traditional Catalan folk to contemporary rock. Dance floors spring up in every plaza, inviting you to join the revelry. The infectious rhythm of the “Sardana,” a traditional Catalan dance, is impossible to resist. We even found a stage that exclusively played death metal from 11 pm to 3 am!

How to Navigate the Crowds

There is no getting around to the fact that the festival is super popular with locals and tourists alike. Depending on what time you visit, the streets will be busy. One of the busiest nights is the festival’s first night, and weekends are busier as well. Even during the afternoon, the narrow streets are packed to the gills with people, so if you want to experience the streets without too many people, definitely head down during the early morning. There are many great coffee shops in Gracia, so grab yourself a coffee and wander the vibrant street displays. Below is an example of the same street early in the morning vs late afternoon.

Food and Drinks

During the evenings, the streets take on a different atmosphere, with music stages entertaining visitors and locals and little makeshift bars serving up local drinks like vermouth and tinto de verano (a refreshing drink made by mixing red wine with lemon soda, and sometimes vermouth). This is another great way for the streets to raise money for materials for next year’s festival, so drink deep and well!

Many local bars and restaurants are filled with a huge influx of visitors, but they have created ingenious stands outside the main restaurants that serve the most popular food and drinks usually served inside the restaurant.

I hope this guide has inspired you to experience this magical festival firsthand. There’s something truly special about the way the community comes together to create such a spectacular event filled with joy, creativity, and tradition. Whether you’re dancing to live music, marvelling at the intricate decorations, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, the memories you make here will be unforgettable.

Happy Travels, Adventurers, and see you at the Festa!

The post Everything You Need To Know About Barcelona’s Unforgettable Festa Major De Gracia, Your Ultimate Guide first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

About L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is known as the “Venice of Provence” to many locals. Moss-covered water wheels sparkly in the morning sunlight. These water wheels are an important historical icon of the city. Back in the 12th century, the rivers were primarily used for fishing, which was the biggest industry in the city. The first houses built in the area were built on stilts, just like in Venice! Even today, the village still honours their fishing heritage by hosting a festival on the third Sunday in July. Its hosted by the brotherhood of Pescaire Lilien (fishers of the Isle) and features demonstrations of the ancient fishing techniques. If you happen to be in the area around the time of the festival, don’t miss checking it out!

Water Wheels

After the fishing industry disappeared and moved closer to the coasts, the city turned to the textile industry. They used the river to power the water wheels used for silk, tanneries, and paper mills. There are still 14 remaining water wheels around the city, and it’s really fun trying to find them all as you explore. I’ve added them all to the map in this guide if you want to easily find them all.

Today the industry is primarily powered by antiques and sightseers perusing the ancient streets. Gorgeous, rustic french houses are still on show on either side of the river. They seem to beam with excitement, green trees hang over sidewalks and even the alleyways smell of freshly baked bread permeating the air.

Table Of Contents

1. About L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
   • Water Wheels
2. Where is the Market?
3. When is the Market?
4. Getting There
5. How Long to Spend at the Market?
6. Bring Cash
7. French Tips
8. Self-Guided Walking Tour of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
   • Café de France
   • Place de la Liberté
   • Église Notre-Dame-des-Anges de L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
   • Rue Rose Goudard
   • Quai Jean Jaurès
   • Avenue des Quatre Otages – Antique Market
   • What to Avoid in the Market?
   • Picnic in Public Garden

Where is the Market?

The Market in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is located along the Sorgue river in Southeastern France. Just west of Avignon in the Vaucluse région of Provence. The gorgeous market is located around the Place de la Liberté, Place Ferdinand Buisson, Rue Carnot, Rue de la République and on Place Rose Goudard.

When is the Market?

The Market is held every Thursday and Sunday, but the Sunday market is far superior. On Sundays, you can find what the french call a “brocante” also called a flea market! Some market stalls open as early as 6 am, but most stalls will open around 8 am and close at 2 pm. The cheapest prices of the day can be found just before closing as sellers often try to get rid of their produce before heading home.

Getting There

By Train

If you are planning on taking the train, the station is a short walk from the market. I prefer taking the train if I’m staying nearby as this means you never need to worry about finding a parking spot! You’ll want to find trains on their way towards L’Isle-sur-Sorgue—Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Luckily Avignon has a direct train to L’Isle-sur-Sorgue, which only takes 36 minutes. From other cities like Arles, Marseille, Aix-en-Provence and Orange, the trip is just over an hour with a straightforward change. Tickets cost anywhere between 10€ and 30€ depending on your starting location.

By Car

L’Isle-sur-Sorgue is located at the intersection of the D31, D901 and D938 highways. This makes it an easy drive from a myriad of surrounding towns. The only downside of driving is finding a parking spot but that can easily be remedied by arriving early.

Parking

Parking is a premium, so I would advise arriving before 8 am. This ensures a nice spot close to the market and less stress! Watching the vendors magically unfurl their goods into a full-on shop front is one of the best parts of the day. If you arrive late, there often aren’t parking spots available. So you’ll find yourself driving around and around, waiting for someone to leave. If all the vendors are still setting up, head out to find an open coffee shop. I highly recommend Café de France! After nabbing some caffeine and a snack, find a quiet spot on the grass along the river. Here you can enjoy a bit of quiet before the hustle and bustle of the busy market erupt.

Remember: be sure not to leave any valuables in your car. Since this is a popular tourist spot, there is always a chance that someone could break in. Best to make sure not to give them any reason to do so and keep the interior empty.

How Long to Spend at the Market?

I would advise at least three hours to spend in the market. The antique area alone is bound to cast a spell on you. You’ll find yourself just immersed in a treasure hunt! And making your way around the food market and creating your own DIY picnic is the best way to enjoy the goodies you find along the way. Rushing in and out doesn’t allow you to truly appreciate the amazing things on sale in this charming market.

Bring Cash

If you’re waiting for the market to open, be sure to stop by an ATM. Or bring lots of cash with you. The vendors will almost always only accept cash, and it’s good to get enough to last you throughout the day. Since it gets so busy here, it is common for ATMs to run out of money by midday. Keep that in mind.

French Tips

One key thing to making good with the vendors is knowing a bit of French.  Although the vendors interact with tourists often, it’s nice to show them a bit of respect. Even a simple please (s’il vous plaît) or thank you (merci) goes a long way. And a warm greeting of “bonjour” is required to be considered polite. If you want to ask the price of something, simply say “c’est combine?” And remember if you don’t want to interrupt or be extra considerate, you can always say “excuse moi” before trying to interject. All these little sayings will go a long way to indear yourself to the vendor for even trying!

Self-Guided Walking Tour of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Café de France

To start your morning in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, head to grab a coffee at the somewhat famous Café de France. This Art Nouveau coffee shop is the oldest cafe on the Isle, and you can feel the historic atmosphere just walking inside. The counter is stained with water rings from orders past and the charming posters on the walls reflect the ages gone by. Large tarnished mirrors between dark wooden panelling make this place a quintessential brasserie.

If there’s space on the outdoor terrace grab a table. The people-watching opportunities here are amazing, as you can catch vendors on their way to the market, arms full of their goods ready to be set up! Although the food is slightly overpriced, this is often the price you pay to dine inside history!

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Place de la Liberté

Place de la Liberté is one of my favourite little streets in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. So even if you don’t find you need a coffee, I still implore you to walk along this street to enjoy the incredible street signage and old French shops. Colourful window shutters line the second floors, while wrought-iron awnings protect the gorgeous painted exteriors along the street!

Église Notre-Dame-des-Anges de L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Walking along Place de la Liberté you have a view, albeit from the side, of the great Église Notre-Dame-des-Anges de L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. While the exterior is a bit austere, you absolutely must head inside! Even if just for a moment, you need a quick peek at the incredible architecture found within.

The original Romanesque church was built in 1222. But the shock and awe of this building lie in the baroque-era decorations that adorn almost every surface inside. Gilded altarpieces, detailed sculptures, ribbed vaulting, rich paintings and fantastical frescos awe and inspire the visitors. As you enter, your eyes will be darting all over the room, trying to take it all in! Although we came here for the market, this church is NOT to be missed, even if just for a moment.

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The primary colour scheme within the church is blue and gold, a popular pairing for baroque Provençale.

Rue Rose Goudard

Head back outside and along the Place de L’Eglise. Often there are a few stands just starting to open up along this street. More appear as you continue south-east along Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau. But the largest selection of fresh food can mostly be found collected along the Rue Rose Goudard. Seasonal fruit and vegetables, charcuterie and olives pour out of charming wood and thicker baskets under brightly coloured awnings. Vegetables almost beam with brilliance they are so vibrantly coloured. You can’t help but want to try a piece of them all!

What to Buy in the Market?

So what to buy? One of the best things to do is gather items for a picnic luncheon. Fresh sausage is one of the best items in the market. Packed with incredible spices and made from some of the best meats in France, these cured delights are a must-grab!

The produce is some of the best in the country here in Provence. Melons, peppers, strawberries and cherries are as bright as they are juicy. Vendors often have samples out in front, so you can try whichever one catches your fancy.

If you’re looking for something to bring home, there is an assortment of olive oils in beautifully designed bottles. But if you just want something to nosh on today, olives are another great Provencal treat! Plus, they are a great addition to the rest of your picnic goods. You can combine all different varieties, perfect for sampling a bit of everything. 

The French are KNOWN for their cheese and bread! There perhaps isn’t a more iconic image of French dining. The cheese on offer here in the market is just as good as any luxury grocery store and often twice as fresh.

If you’re staying for a few days, grab a bouquet of flowers to brighten up your hotel room. The smell and colours are unforgettable!

Quai Jean Jaurès

As you continue wandering towards the Sorgue River, you’ll exit onto Quai Jean Jaurès. This street is where the market continues but where it transforms into more souvenir-type items. Everything from wooden kitchen utensils, textiles, handicrafts and clothes can be found here.

Dried lavender is sold in bags and bouquets all over the market. This is the perfect souvenir to bring home. In a sachet, it keeps the clothing in your drawers smelling fresh and of those memories from Provence. Grabbing a bundle of dried lavender is great to display but can be hard to transport home in one piece!

Soap is another thing you’ll see hundreds of shops selling. All in different designs and prices. Check to see if it was made in Provence before buying! You want the real thing. There will often be a discount if you buy in bulk, making great gifts for anyone back at home.

Avenue des Quatre Otages – Antique Market

The pop-up antique brocante vendors are located on the south side of the river, along the Avenue des Quatre Otages. A tip for shopping here is that haggling isn’t common and neither is getting a good deal. But the selection is great, and I found plenty at prices I thought were more than fair for the quality. The prices are often very well labelled, so even if you don’t speak French you should be able to shop without having to ask to vendors for pricing. Remember, if you see something you love, buy it right away. As it might be gone before you have the chance to return.

Best Antique Finds?!

Although things like furniture might not be able to fit into your suitcase, there are lots of smaller items which are worth considering. Many different vendors sell beautiful prints taken from old manuscripts and books. Once framed, make for a one-of-a-kind souvenir. 

Textiles are another great thing to keep an eye out for. Napkins, tablecloths, purses and blankets are often beautifully embroidered. They are sometimes even monogrammed – so keep an eye out, and you might even find one that matches your name!

What to Avoid in the Market?

Now, what are the best items to buy in the market? And what to avoid? The stuff to avoid is quite obvious – anything that isn’t decidedly French. Keep an eye out for “made in China” stickers on clothing, ceramics and even some textiles. I was surprised how many pieces of pottery I came across that were simply painted and not provencal in the slightest bit.

Picnic in Public Garden

After grabbing all you can carry, head back down the river and find a nice spot under the trees in the Public Garden. The park features tons of grassy patches to lay out with your delicious selection of the day. On Sundays, musicians stroll around, playing to entertain the visitors.

Along the river’s edge, painters are set up with their oils and pencils. Sketching the iconic scenery. Watching them work while enjoying your French meal makes for a darling little afternoon treat. Listening to the water wheels peddling in the distance.

This brings us to the end of the self-guided tour of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. If you want to extend your stay, consider simply wandering through the backstreets. While the market might have the biggest draw, the charming little houses in some unassuming back alleys contain some of the most iconic French sights you’ll see in Provence. Bright window shutters contrast the aging patina of the beige buildings. Cheerful street cats prowl around every corner. Secrets to be found wherever you go!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post Ultimate Guide to Spectacular L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Market [UPDATED 2023] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

In 1784, four independent boroughs in Bohemia came together to form the city of Prague. Today, each of these districts feels like their own unique area of the town, whose architecture, atmosphere and layout change as you move throughout them. The four neighbourhoods are Hradčany (the Castle District), Malá Strana (the Lesser Quarter below Prague Castle), Staré Město (Old Town) and Nové Město (New Town). 

Hradčany is such a beautiful part of town. It’s fantastically easy to wander around. If you’re not in a rush to get back to the old city after exploring Prague Castle, I highly recommend taking a walk through this part of town. Although there is a myriad of impressive buildings to venture inside (should time allow) my favourite thing to do in this area is simply to walk around aimlessly and admire all the romantic-looking houses which dot the streets.

Table Of Contents

1. Location
2. History
3. Access
4. Zámecké schody
5. Paradise Garden
6. Hradčany Square 
7. Schwarzenberg Palace
8. Salm Palace
9. Statue of Tomas Garrigue Masaryk
10. The New Royal Palace
11. Archbishop Palace
12. Šternberský Palace
13. Martinic Palace
14. Tuscany Palace
15. Loretánská street 
16. Hradčany Town Hall
17. U Černého vola
18. Strahov Monastery
19. Basilica of the Assumption
20. Strahov Library
21. Černín Palace
22. Loreto Sanctuary
23. Novy Svet
24. Church of St. John of Nepomuk
25. Vstup Jelení Příkop or Deer Moat
26. Powder Bridge
27. Prague Riding School
28. The Royal Garden
29. Royal Ball Game Hall
30. Singing Fountain
31. Queen Anne's Summer Palace

Location

Hradčany or the Castle District is located on the Vltava river’s west bank, above the Mala Strana/Lesser Quarter. This area is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Prague and wandering around its noble historical palaces, romantic nooks, peaceful squares and beautiful lookouts feel like stepping back in time.

History

The settlement of Hradčany was established in the 13th century. Unlike the Old Town and Lesser Quarter, which were official cities, Hradčany wasn’t an official town and developed in a much more haphazard manner. In 1598 Emperor Rudolf II finally promoted it to the status of a city, and the district’s situation began to change. More and more wealthy people began to move in. Either to be closer to the palace as a sign of their devotion to the crown or perhaps they were a royal worker who moved in to be closer to work. 

Because the area of Hradčany was located near Prague Castle, it gained the title of being a “Royal Town” in the 14th century shortly before New Town was founded by Charles IV. Because of this status, residents living here were all relatively wealthy. The owners could afford to hire the best artisans to create some of Prague’s most stunning structures. Hradčany was an independent city until 1784, when it became part of Prague’s unified royal capital.

Access

We’re going to start the tour just outside Prague Castle, assuming you’ll be taking this tour after exploring that part of town. If you’re making a separate trip to Hradčany, you can follow the same path. The best way to access the start of the walking tour directly is by taking the tram to Malostranské náměstí station. The first stop on the guided tour is only a few minutes from the tram stop.

Zámecké schody

We start our tour along with the steps of Zámecké schody, or the Castle Stairs. This pedestrian-only street was built in 1278. The name translates into “the steep road” in Czech as the original stairs that used to be here until the 1870s were perilously steep. Today the patterned stone steps are flanked on either side by beautiful old stone walls and a gorgeous view across the city of Prague.

Paradise Garden

When you reach the top of the stairs, head over the right to a small green area called the “Paradise Garden.” Up here you’ll find a series of benches along the grass where you can sit and look out over the city. It’s a spectacular viewpoint and one not to be missed!

Hradčany Square 

Head back out to Hradčanské street, where you’ll find the statue of St. Filip Neri at the intersection of the stairs and the road. From here, head towards the grand Hradčany Square. Hradčany Square is one of the most scenic areas of the neighbourhood, full of charming pastel palaces and houses everywhere you look. The square faces onto Prague castle, and from here you can see the towers of St. Vitus Cathedral looming overhead.

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The middle of the square is dominated by a great plague column. Plague columns were a popular decorative addition to squares in the 15th century. They were designed to praise the Virgin Mary for saving the people of Prague from the great plague. Plague columns represented the end of the epidemic and were thought to prove the resolve of the population of Prague. This statue was designed by Maxmilián Brokof, one of the most famed sculptors of the Baroque era. Even the plague columns of this district were made by the most illustrious artists.

Schwarzenberg Palace

On the south side of the square is Schwarzenberg Palace. This elegant Renaissance palace from the 16th century is covered in the most intricate geometric design. The pattern is made to look like a pyramidal relief, but if you go up to it and touch it, you’ll see that this is just a trick of the eye. This effect is called sgraffito and is a painting technique used to create an optical illusion of a three-dimensional texture on a flat surface. The effect is mesmerizing. And unless you touch the walls you’d think the entire facade was meticulously carved.

The palace was built for Count Jan Jr. from Lobkovice in 1545. Schwarzenberg Palace is now home to the National Gallery of Prague. If you choose to venture inside, you’ll be able to see some of the original painted ceiling frescoes. One of the most famous treasures of the building is the restored frescoes of The Judgment of Paris and the Conquest of Troy.

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The art housed inside the palace contains paintings from the Renaissance done by Bohemian artists as well as Old Masters. Artists such as; Hans von Aachen, Lucas Cranach, Adriaen de Vries, Albrecht Dürer, El Greco, Francisco José Goya, Hans Holbein, Peter Paul Rubens, and others are featured in here.

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Salm Palace

Adjacent to the Schwarzenberg Palace is the Salm Palace or Salmovský Palace. The Salm palace is easily identifiable by the large “S” monogram on the gate. This building, built in the classical style, was initially made for the Archbishop Vilém Florentin, or Prince of Salm-Salm, in 1800.

The older palace, which once stood here, was renovated in the 19th century, as was the fashion during that period. It was used throughout the later part of the 19th century as the communist party’s headquarters. Today, it is used as a part of the National Gallery. This part of the gallery is where you can find paintings from the 19th century and onward. This part of the gallery is known for their abstract art installations and modern art collection.

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Statue of Tomas Garrigue Masaryk

Just outside the Salm Palace stands the great bronze statue of Monument to Tomas Garrigue Masaryk. He stands atop a tall plinth, looking out at the New Royal Palace with the view of Prague’s city spread out behind him. Tomas Garrigue Masaryk was a Czechoslovak statesman, philosopher, sociologist and pedagogue. But most importantly, he was the first president of the Czechoslovak Republic and was seen as the founding father of Czechoslovakia.

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The New Royal Palace

The New Royal Palace is a formation of cream coloured buildings set against the eastern part of Hradčany Square. The royal family moved into these apartments during the Renaissance when their old Royal Palace, dating back tot he 12th century, was no longer serviceable. The multitude of structures was renovated to have one unified facade under the rule of Empress Maria Theresa. She felt they looked much too much like a hodgepodge of architectural styles. 

The enormous gates that guard the entrance feature a series of wrestlers called the “Gate of the Titans.” This gate leads you into the Court of Honour, although today, the Titans’ Gate is only used as an exit, so you cannot enter via this gate. The wrestling statues were carved by Ignác Fr. Platzer in 1762. On either side of the gladiators are statues of a lion and an eagle atop a great column.

Inside the Court of Honour, we find the central Matthias Gate. The Matthias Gate was once the ceremonial gate used as an entrance to Prague Castle in the early part of the 17th century. Atop the gate is a Latin inscription in gold that gives the date of its construction, 1614. At one point, this gate would have been freestanding as the wings on either side hadn’t been built yet. When they were added, the entrance was redesigned to be incorporated into the buildings.

Archbishop Palace

On the north side of the square, you’ll find the Archbishop Palace, named as such because it was built for the Archbishops of Prague. The previous Archbishop house was located further south in the Lesser Quarter. People would rave about the manor’s opulence, and even King Wenceslas himself apparently envied the splendour. Unfortunately, the palace burned down in the 15th century. 

In 1561, Emperor Ferdinand I donated a house around Prague castle, which the archbishops could use as their new residence. The building went through round after round of redesigns and renovations. Each subsequent archbishop wanted to add their own personal flourish. Their palace’s current incarnation is from the Rococo era, seen clearly by the scrolling curves, white and cream pastel colours, sculpted moulding and dramatic figures. In the center of the facade is a coat of arms inserted under the cornice. On either side are two allegorical figures of Force and Faith by sculptor Tomas Seidan.

Archbishop’s Chapel

Although the palace’s interior is not accessible to visitors, inside the holy chapel is a stirring painting of the Crucifixion. It is said the artist who painted the picture hired a young beggar to pose as Jesus. The artist became frustrated and felt like the beggar didn’t look like he was suffering enough to be painted appropriately as Jesus on the cross. So, the artist stabbed the beggar through the heart to paint his agony-filled face. After the painting was finished, the artists committed suicide, unable to live with what he had done. But the picture still hangs in the chapel to this day, and the anguish upon the man’s face in the portrait is utterly haunting.

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Šternberský Palace

Walking under the archway to the left of the Archbishop’s Palace, you find yourself wandering down a narrow alleyway towards the Šternberský Palace. The palace was initially built for the Count Václav Vojtěch of Šternberk in 1698. The main facade of the palace looks out onto Hradčanské Square but to get to the inner courtyard one must follow the hidden passage we find ourselves in. The building was bought by the Society of Patriotic Friends of the Arts, where they display European Art from the Classical Era to the end of the Baroque Era, with emphasis on the 14th-18th centuries.

Martinic Palace

Walk back to the square, and continue westward along Hradčanské street. When we reach the square’s edge, we will find ourselves face to face with Martinic Palace on the northwest corner. The exterior of this building is truly something to see. The palace is one of the best remaining Renaissance buildings in Prague. The first building on this site was made in 1541 but burned down shortly after. In 1589 Ondřej Teyfl from Kinsdorf bought the property and transformed it into this renaissance jewel of Bohemia. What makes this building really special is the richly detailed sgraffito painted onto the facade. The sgraffito designs depict scenes from the lives of Joseph, King David and Hercules. 

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The name of the palace came from the 18th century when the great Martinic family owned the palace. After the death of the last surviving family member, the palace was sold off. Eventually, the building was turned into an apartment complex. These 70 apartments were lived in until 1967! Can you imagine living in such a place! 

Seeing the property’s historical architectural value, the building was purchased by the city and reconstructed back to its former glory. The 500-year-old interiors have been lovingly restored based on drawing the architects found of the original structure. The lavishly decorated interiors are still used for large events and even employed as the historical sets for TV shows such as ‘The Borgias.’ But day-to-day, the palace serves as the office for Prague’s chief architect, which feels very appropriate indeed!

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Tuscany Palace

Heading back south on the western side of Hradčany street, we pass by the final palace built in this majestic square, the Tuscany Palace. This baroque palace was built in the 17th century as the private residence of the Dukes of Tuscany. Walking up to it, you almost know it’s the Tuscan palace, from the facade’s warm terracotta tones alone. Today it serves as the office for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

Above the entrance, you’ll see the magnificent Tuscan coat of arms. On either side of the crest are two large cornucopias pouring forth with the bounty of Tuscany’s countryside. Two imperial eagles sit perched on either side, and four chubby cherubs fly above and below the crest.

This palace was designed by the same man who built the Archbishop’s Palace, and the two buildings seem to be almost brothers, looking at one and other from across the square. Along the top of the palace are a series of allegorical statues representing the Seven Liberal Arts; Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry, Music and Astronomy. 

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Loretánská street 

Pass the Tuscan Palace and continue along Loretánská street. Although this street can get busy in the summer during high tourist season, this is mainly due to the spectacular view of Prague castle framed along the road. The best place to get this shot is further up the hill at #13/179 Loretánská street.

In the 14th century, this part of town was actually located outside the city walls. It wasn’t until 1598 that it became a part of Prague’s city. Some of the houses here are very well preserved as they were spared from the great fire in 1742 set by the invading French army. 

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Hradčany Town Hall

Located on Loretánská Street is the former seat of the Hradčany Town Hall. Despite the council being disbanded with their integration into Prague, their beautiful Renaissance building still stands. Although the house was sold as a residential property, the new owners managed to preserve the Renaissance sgraffito exterior made when the town hall was built in 1598. On the front of the facade, you can still make out the emblem of the town of Hradčany. The symbol features the imperial coat-of-arms and a picture of Justice.

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U Černého vola

If you’re looking to stop somewhere for a drink or a bite to eat, pop into U Černého vola. U Černého vola, in Czech, means the Black Ox. This is one of Prague’s original beerhalls. The building dates back to 1574, but it wasn’t until 1726 that the building was used as a pub.

The interior makes one feel like they are going back in time. The vaulted ceilings, old coat of arms and long communal tables make you feel like you are entering a brew hall from the 18th century. Back then, it was commonplace to eat together, even with strangers. This is an excellent way to meeting people even today! The centrepiece of the interior is clearly the communist era bar. Here you can sample one of Prague’s finest brews; Kzoel beer, straight from the tap.

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Strahov Monastery

Continue along the streets, walking westward, until you reach the Strahov Monastery. The monastery, with its austere white baroque mouldings, hides a stunning and bejewelled interior. The monastery was founded in 1143 by Prince Vladislav II. Despite the baroque exterior, the interior contains one of the best-preserved Romanesque structures in Europe.

Basilica of the Assumption

Walking up to the monastery, the first part of the building to enter is the Basilica of the Assumption. The original church, which was first constructed here, was built in the 12th century. It was one of the four main temples of the Czech kingdom, along with the Cathedral of St. Vitus, the Church of St. Peter and Paul and the Břevnov monastery. In the middle of the 13th century, the Strahov monastery suffered a destructive fire. It was rebuilt in a gothic design while maintaining its romanesque floorplan.

But in 1747, after the bombings from the French army, the facade of the church was severely damaged once more. When they began restoring the church’s frontispiece, the project architect Jan Antonin Kvittainer was employed to freshen it up for the modern era using the then trendy baroque style.

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The church’s interior also features robust baroque designs, with a series of lavish frescoes covering the entire ceiling. There are 46 paintings in total representing scenes from the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, the Life of St. Norbet, and the Marian cycle. Each one of these was painted by J. V. J. Neunherz in 1743. Each one is surrounded by these lush gilded stucco carvings highlighting the artwork within. Almost like a gallery wall mounted on the ceiling.

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Walking down the aisle, take in the beauty of the series of cartouches located beside the rows of pews. Each one is dedicated to a different saint created by painter Leopold Willmann. At the end of the aisle, you find the great altar. Atop it is the magnificent carving of the Virgin Mary’s Assumption for whom the church is named after.

Chapel of St. Norbert

Walking back down the aisle, continue to the right side of the church, where you’ll find a tiny chapel that juts out from the northern edge of the basilica. This is the Chapel of St. Norbert. The original chapel, which was located here, was built in 1258 and dedicated to St. Ursula. The newer baroque version was converted in 1745 after the church acquired the holy relics from St. Nobert himself.

Above the chapel is a small dome featuring a fresco of the Martyrdom of St. Ursula, a remnant of the previous chapel’s designs. The frescoes were painted by Siard Neosecky. In this painting, we can see St. Ursula being made a martyr along with her handmaids. The legend goes that Ursula went on her pilgrimage to Rome to dedicate herself to god. But before they would reach their destination, Ursula and her handmaids were attacked by Huns and murdered. The fresco is a powerful image full of fire and violence. It seems to grow wilder and wilder as the painting inches towards the dome’s centre, where it also appears to be set alight. Inside the small chapel, you can also find the reliquaries containing St. Ursula’s remains. Nearby is the the rococo sarcophagus containing St. Nobert’s remains, made in 1755.

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Strahov Library

Also attached to the same building is the Strahov Library. The library was one of the first parts of the monastery which was built when the entire complex was constructed. Throughout the years, it was destroyed and rebuilt, time after time, war after war. Many of their precious books were stolen. Despite this, every time they rebuilt it, they sought to make their library even grander. Today, the library stands as a jewel of the Baroque era. 

To enter the library required admission. Adults are 150 CZK ($6.50 USD) and students or children are 80 CZK ($3.40 USD). The library has three parts that visitors can explore: the Grand Philosophical Hall, The Baroque Theological Hall and the Cabinets of Curiosities. Looking from floor to ceiling at this ornately designed library will literally take your breath away. It contains over 42,000 ancient philosophical texts, sprawling along the walls like a wave of knowledge. I would highly recommend giving it a visit! More information on the library can be found here.

Černín Palace

Head back the way you came in until you reach the grand Černín Palace. Černín Palace, now home to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was built in the 1660s by diplomat Humprecht Jan Černín z Chudenic, the Habsburg imperial ambassador to Venice and Rome. Chudenic was incredibly vain and saw himself as more important than even the emperor. He built his palace in a location that was just higher up than Prague Castle, making his palace appear more prominent.

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Loreto Sanctuary

Behind the Černín Palace, you’ll find the buttercream frosted Church of Loreto. The name “Loreto” references the little cottage in which the Virgin Mary lived in Nazareth before becoming the mother of god. There are several “Loreto” churches all over the world. While visiting the one in Italy, Countess Kateřina Benigna of Lobkowicz fell so deeply in love with it that she entrusted a fair share of her wealth to Prague’s construction of their own Loreto. The church was built in 1626 by an Italian architect to ensure this church was a faithful reproduction of the same Italian version which the countess first fell in love with.

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I love the statues which decorate the facade church and are dotted along with the exterior balustrade. The perky faces of these chubby cherubs seem to welcome you in. On the frontispiece of the church are statues of various Czech saints such as St. Felix, František, Antonín and John of Nepomuk. In the central archway leading into the church is a beautifully carved emblem which represents the alliance between the families who donated money to create the church, Filip Lobkowicz and his wife, Eleonora Karolína.

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Standing outside the church, take a moment to look up at the imposing bell tower above. Inside the bell tower is a carillon of 27 bells which ring every hour from 9 am to 6 pm. The bell’s musical sound was designed by famed watchmaker Peter Neumann. The bells are immovable and are rung solely by a clock mechanism. Considering this carillon was built in 1695 the technology to create such a wide range of music seems rather ahead of its time. Every hour you can hear the song, “Marian song Thousands of greetings to you” play throughout the square. On the top of the tower, see if you can spot the crowning dove which is set against a golden aureole, the symbol of the holy spirit.

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Loreto Treasury

Walking into the church the first room you’ll enter is the Loreto Treasury. This area houses a collection of rare liturgical objects. Some of these historical pieces of ecclesiastical design are some of the most precious treasures in the nation. The most impressive one has to be the Diamond Monstrance, otherwise called the “Prague Sun.” A monstrance is an object designed to hold the consecrated communion wafers. The piece simply radiates with light as there are 6,222 diamonds set within it. This is what gave it the nickname of the “Prague Sun” as it seems to shine brighter than the even the sun in the sky.

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Santa Casa

Head into the cloisters where you’ll find my favourite part of the church, the Santa Casa. Crammed in the center of the small grassy courtyard is the intricately carved “Santa Casa” or “Holy Hut”. The entirety building is covered in magnificent stucco reliefs which depict scenes of the life of the Virgin Mary. Set amongst the little vignettes are statues of the prophets who predicted the birth of the Virgin Mary. The structure’s shape and design is a replica of the house where the Virgin Mary lived during her life in Nazareth. You could definitely spend a good amount of time encircling the building studying all the different carvings so it’s best to find one which you are really drawn to and focus on that particular one.

On either side of the Santa Casa are two wonderfully charming fountains with huge sculptures set inside the water feature. The one of the left depicts the “Resurrection of Christ,” and the one on the right depicts the “Assumptions of the Virgin Mary.” Both of these were made by artists J. M. Bruderle and R. J. Prachner in 1738.

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The cloisters surrounding the Holy Hut were built in the 18th century and contain a series of chapels dedicated to saints who protect people against disease and suffering. The most popular of these chapels is the Chapel of the Ecstasy of St. Francis. Within the chapel, you’ll find a stunning painting of the Stigmatisation of St. Francis, with the saint flying on a great chariot, painted by P. Brandl.

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Church of the Nativity

Continuing onwards, we enter the main nave of the Church of the Nativity. While the church feels small, it does not feel insignificant. The interior swells with richly carved marble columns and ostentatious decorations everywhere you look. Along the perimeter of the church are several marble altars and fantastical oratories that contain precious relics. The main altar is carved from a great piece of red and white marble and features a painting of the Nativity of Christ by J. J. Heinsch set within it.

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On the ceiling are a series of incredible frescoes. The scene portrays the newborn baby Jesus being worshipped by the Magi. The ceiling is painted to looks like there is an illusory gallery with a large balustrade lining the perimeter. Behind the balustrade are characters from the nativity, including the magi themselves. Above them, we can see the celestial images of God surrounded by a choir of angels who look down lovingly at the scene below.

In addition to the people, there is also a collection of exotic animals that surround the mother and newborn baby. The other vaults in the church depict moments from the childhood of Jesus in chronological order from the entrance towards the presbytery.

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The Spanish saints Felicissimus and Marcis stand as wax models inside the church. Each of them dressed up in period-appropriate Spanish attire. These wax models are a form of reliquary, a container for the physical remains of the saints. Each one was modelled after the true form of the saint. They are each covered in rare fabrics, rich embroideries and precious jewels to distinguish them as holy objects. Pilgrims come from all over the world to worship in front of their models as if they were really there themselves.

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The oldest artwork inside the church is the Gothic Pieta, dating back to the 15th century. She can be found in the Chapel of the Virgin Mary of Sorrows. Despite the relatively simple carving methods used here, such emotion is still found on the mother’s faces as she clutches her dead son’s body.

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Novy Svet

Walking north up Kapucínská street, we come up with the steeply set Novy Svet. Novy Svet, or “New World,” is a street in Prague that seems free of the tourist hoards seen elsewhere in the city. The area dates back to the 14th century when a large ravine, previously located here, was filled in to create more housing for the workers required to support the construction of Prague Castle. On one side of the road is a thick old wall, which looks like it is barely hanging onto the hillside. Some of the stones on this wall are remnants of the old city walls, which once divided the city of Hradčany from the rest of Prague. On the opposite side of the wall are a series of beautiful houses, some dating back to the 17th century.

Church of St. John of Nepomuk

Before heading to our next stop, take a short detour, towards the Church of St. John of Nepomuk. St. John of Nepomuk is one of the most important saints in the Czech Republic. This church, therefore, holds great importance to Prague’s history. The original church built on this site was made for the Order of Voršilek. One of the nuns of the order made it her life goal to see that John of Nepomuk was made a saint.

The nun had had a lame hand for years, infected with scabies, and doctors said it could not be fixed. As the infection worsened, she was at risk of losing her hand entirely. She came to Prague, where she knew St. John was preaching and asked him to bless her. She claimed that when St. John of Nepomuk blessed her hand she was cured of the infection none of the doctors had been able to heal. This was seen as the fourth miracle performed by St. John of Nepomuk, ensuring his sainthood.

After St. John of Nepomuk was proclaimed a saint, this church was rebuilt as a cathedral in his name. In 1720 the first stone was laid. It was built in the high baroque style of the times. In a niche atop of the clock tower stands a sculptor of St. John of Nepomuk himself surrounded by angels.

But soon after its consecration in 1728, the monastery fell into great financial trouble and closed its door. The building was left abandoned and eventually used by the city as a salt warehouse until 1861. It was reconsecrated in 1902 when it returned to the ownership of the Catholic church. However, the interiors had since been ransacked and their precious treasures sold off to pay debts.

Vstup Jelení Příkop or Deer Moat

We are now headed towards the Royal Summer Palace. But instead of taking the roadway back over the eastern side of Hradcany, we will take the small, pedestrian-only pathway called Vstup Jelení Příkop or the Deer Moat. This large expanse of forest was initially a hunting ground for the royals in the early part of the 17th century where the court would hunt deer, hence the name. During this time the grounds were also used to house a variety of animal enclosures for the King’s menagerie.

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Powder Bridge

Walking towards U Prašného mostu, turn to the right and stand atop the Powder Bridge. This bridge overlooks the Deer Moat and leads right into Prague Castle’s second courtyard. The first bridge installed here was built in 1535 to connect Prague Castle to the newly created Royal Gardens in the summer palace. The name of the bridge comes from the fact that during the early days of Prague Castle, the Mihulce tower, located behind the bridge, was used to store gunpowder. At the time, insulation and air-tight construction weren’t highly developed. Therefore gunpowder would often blow out the windows of the tower and land on the nearby bridge. This gave it the nickname, ‘Powder Bridge’ as more often then not dustings of gunpowder would cover the entire pathway.

The original bridge burned down in 1541. Various reconstructions were made over and over throughout the years as the bridge seemed plagued with misfortune. It was even victim to a bombing during the Prussian wars of 1757. The current stone version was made in the 18th century and still stands today.

Prague Riding School

Continue up the street until you reach the Prague Castle Riding School. This cream coloured building was built in the 17th century to teach the nobility of Prague the skills required to become adept horsemen. The baroque facade is relatively simple, with just a few stucco ornaments above the window and along the facade’s roofline. The stucco designs at the top of the building, above the doors, are carved into the shape of two jumping horses. On either side of the horses are the busts of a Turc and a blackmoor surrounded by various weapons. The original riding school was used by the nobility for horse games and tournaments. Today it is used primarily as an exhibition center.

The Royal Garden

Just up past the Riding school, you’ll find the Royal Garden entrance on your right-hand side. The Royal gardens are open to the public, so anyone can come inside and enjoy the splendours of this 16th-century lush enclosure. The gardens were designed in 1540 for Emperor Ferdinand I of Habsburg to surround his new Summer Palace. At the time of its construction, the park was one of the best examples of renaissance gardens in the Czech Republic.

When it was first built, the gardens were for the royal family’s personal use only. Here they could come to relax and play games, away from the eyes of the court and the public. Later in the 18th century, the garden was renovated to suit the new baroque style of the time. Today, the garden resembles more of a 19th-century English park where the plentiful fruit trees have been replaced with more sustainable decorative shrubs.

Royal Ball Game Hall

To the south, just after you enter the park, you’ll see a large stone building absolutely adorned in some of the most intricate sgraffito carvings. This is the old Royal Ball Game Hall. These carvings depict allegories of the four earthly elements along with images of art and science. All of these images are intertwined within floral designs making the entire piece so visually rich and eye-catching.

The Royal Ball Game Hall was built in 1597 and used as a place for nobles to gather to watch and participate in sporting activities, away from the public’s eye. During WWII, the building was burned down by the Nazis as they retreated from the allies. Thankfully it was able to be restored in 1950. If you look closely, you can see the symbols of the hammer and sickle, which were added in the 50’s when the communist party was responsible for the restorations.

Singing Fountain

In front of the Summer Palace, at the edge of the park, is a large fountain. Surrounding it are geometrically shaped garden beds, whose flowers bloom in all the colours of the rainbow in the spring and summer. The fountain is called the “Singing Fountain” as people say that the water spilling from the top of the fountain into the basin plays a little song. Listening closely to see if you can hear it. Holding up the upper basin of the fountain is a series of bronze sculptures depicting mythological gods tightly knit together.

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Queen Anne’s Summer Palace

The Royal Summer Palace is also referred to as Queen Anna’s Summerhouse. The palace is named after Ferdinand I’s wife, Anna Jagiellon. The building’s facade is a fine example of Italian Renaissance architecture made by Italian architect Paolo Della Stella. The palace’s roof is especially attractive, as its curved shape was meant to resemble the bottom of a ship’s hull. The exterior of the building features 36 columns creating a beautiful arcade around the palace. In between each of the columns, are arches covered in reliefs of royal hunts, historical battles and characters from greek and roman mythology.

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Sitting in the peace and quiet of the Royal Summer gardens is a perfect place to end our tour as we reach the outskirts of Hradčany. I hope you enjoyed this walk across this part of Prague.

Let me in the comments if you’ve visited Hradčany before or what part of the Prague you are most looking forward to exploring.

Happy Travels Adventurers.

The post Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Hradčany, Prague’s Castle District first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Touring the building also serves as a history lesson about the Slavic people, Czech culture and even art. The basilica doesn’t have St. Vitus’s lofty status or the draw that St. Nicholas’ Church gets. But if you make an effort to come down and visit, you’ll see what the rest of those unknowing tourists are missing out on.

Table Of Contents

1. History
2. Location
3. Hours & Admission
4. Towers
5. Facade
6. Interior
7. Frescos
8. The Treasure Room
9. Vyšehrad Cemetery

History

The church was founded in 1070 by the Czech King Vratislav II. Initially, it was a simple Romanesque Basilica. Prince Vratislav II had the church built in purposeful opposition to St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague Castle. Almost a hundred years earlier, his predecessor, Wenceslaus I, had built St. Vitus Cathedral. But rather than pray instead of this old church, Vratislav wanted to make something of his own to mark his reign. In Vyšehrad, Vratislav was said to have brought 12 baskets of stones upon which they built the foundation of what would become the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul.

But, in 1249, a great fire destroyed the church, and the original design was lost to the ages. The first reconstruction was a relatively meagre endeavour meant to restore the building only in function and not in fashion. Years later, a baroque frontispiece was added to the church, but the neo-gothic renovations in the 1880s removed any trace of this architecture.

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Joseph Mocker

In 1885, a new renovation was commissioned to create an elaborate, neo-gothic church. Master builder Joseph Mocker was the original architect, but he died halfway through construction. His partner František Mikš finished the job. Now having complete artistic control of the operations, Mikš made a few changes to the original layout to suit his own personal style. His main addition to the design was the towering facade that the church is now so famous for. As it peaks out of the hillside in Vysehrad.

Location

The Basilica is located inside the complex of Vysehrad. Vysehrad is one of Prague’s old fortresses situated on a high cliff above the river Vltava. From here, soldiers could easily see any incoming armies and it was a prime location for Prague’s infantry. In the 11th century, Vysehrad was also the seat of the first King of Bohemia. After the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV began to build the Prague Castle in the early 14th century, Vyšehrad was abandoned as the royal family’s primary residence.

The complex was left to deteriorate for years and wasn’t touched until Charles IV decided to renew the area. He wanted to build new fortifications, a new royal palace, and finally see to the renovations at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. But, with the Hussite war’s dawn, progress was discontinued, and the church was ransacked once more. It wouldn’t be for another few hundred years that the church would be restored to a new form of heavenly glory.

Hours & Admission

November – March
Monday – Saturday 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday 11:30 am – 5 pm

April – October
Monday – Saturday 10 am – 6 pm (5:30 on Thursday)
Sunday 11:30 am – 6 pm

There is a small entrance fee to access the church. Adult entry costs 90 CZK ($4 USD), which is more than worth it to explore this treasure!

Towers

Upon walking up to the church one of the first things you’ll be drawn to, are the two huge towers, which flank the skyline. Let your eyes float up to the top of the spires, and notice that they are indeed hollow. Their design was influenced by the chestnut flowers’ cone-like formations. Architect Miks was inspired by these plants, which bloom right behind the church in Vyšehrad cemetery. Decorating the spires’ outer edges and the triangular gables are frilled, petal-like protrusions which make the entire structure look more naturalistic than man-made.

Facade

The design of the building is quite unique as it features no transept. A transept is the part of the building that forms the classical shape of a cross and cuts through the center of the church. Since the building has no horizontal intersection, when you look at it from the front it almost looks like a movie set, an exterior with nothing behind it. So when you walk inside, it’s almost a surprise to see his lofty, extended interior.

Above the central entrance door is the tympanum, decorated an intricate carving of Jesus standing tall beside his apostles, during the Last Judgement. Below the group of the apostles, St. Michael is centred, ushering people into heaven. A chorus of angel trumpets their horns above his head, announcing their entry to the heavenly realm. The people around St. Michael are sculpted as crippled and in pain, weighed down by the burden of their sins.

St. Peter and St. Paul

Above the central portal is a great pediment featuring the two saints’ statues after which the church is named after. St. Peter and St. Paul are set on either side of the sculpture of Jesus, crowned with a golden halo, reaching his hand out in prayer to the people below.

Mosaics on the church’s frontispiece, set into quatrefoils frames, depict St. Peter and St. Paul’s portraits. Peter’s symbols are a set of keys, which are the keys to heaven. Peter is the one with a bright white beard wearing papal vestments. Paul holds a book and a sword with a hilt in the shape of a cross in his hands. Paul is depicted as traditionally represented with a long pointed beard and a more modest, grey robe.

Portals

The portals on either side of the central entrance are adorned with brightly coloured mosaics. Etched onto the church’s door are the symbols of the coat of arms of the Czech Republic. The silver double-tailed lion on a red background and the black Moravian eagle are repeated across the grand entrance doors.

Above the entry doors, on your left, is the emblem of the Vysehrad Chapter house. The chapter was established here at the basilica around 1070 at the behest of Bohemia’s first king. The branch was subordinate only to Rome and could influence many aspects of Bohemia’s internal and foreign policy. Their emblem is two golden keys crossed tied together by rope. A symbol you’ll come across multiple times throughout your visit here.

Interior

As you step into the church, the first thing you’ll be stuck with is the fact that from floor to ceiling, the entire building is COVERED in murals and paintings. Not a column, nor walls, has been left untouched. The detailed pictures sweep across the walls like embroidery covering a royal gown. Floral trimmings cover every inch of the temple, giving you the feeling of walking into a forest.

Art Nouveau

As you walk inside, the light shimmers off every surface. Gilding and gold leaf were used in abundance during the renovations. But unlike other neo-gothic cathedrals and churches of the time, this one is not purely high gothic, but instead embraces art nouveau sensibilities. Art nouveau was sweeping the nation during the time church was being renovated. Art nouveau attempted to reject academic, historical art and instead embraced natural forms, movement, asymmetry and modern materials.

The addition of art nouveau inside this old church feels shockingly appropriate as the first King of Bohemia himself aimed to reject any previously established traditions when he originally built this church.

Frescos

The Basilica’s most extraordinary characteristic is the gilded frescos, which surround the faithful who come to pray. These paintings are ornate, undulating images by painter František Urban and his wife, Marie Urbanová-Zahradnická. These paintings look famously similar to the iconic designs made by famous Czech painter Alphonse Mucha. Many people who visit the church might even be convinced they were by Mucha if they further inquired. But Mucha was merely a trendsetter who inspired Urban and Zahradnická to fall on the bandwagon. Women and men, with delicate features and cascading hair, embellish the walls and archways.

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Running up every pillar are blooming patterns and colourful ribbons. The walls contain lots of vivid greens and deep brown hues, continuing the woodland theme. Even the dark church benches were carved with oak leaves, bringing the outdoors inside. Not a single item inside the church was left untouched by Art Nouveau’s seductive technique.

Murals

The murals on the northern wall feature images of St. Cyril and St. Methodius’ arrival in Bohemia. St. Cyril and St. Methodius were two brothers, theologians and missionaries who made their mark in Christianity by evangelizing the Slavs. They are known as the “Apostles to the Slavs.” Their life story is told across these murals framed by a series of angels who look down on the scene from heaven. Although there might not be any text to follow the images, it’s a visual way of understanding this part of Czech history. On the south wall, the murals depict the establishment of Vysehrad in the Czech Republic.

Look up at the vaults on the ceiling. Even they are painted with images of beautiful angels in prayer, looking down on the faithful below.

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Stained Glass Windows

Brightly coloured stained glass enhances the outer walls of the Basilica. Each window depicts a scene from the bible. But what makes these windows even more interesting to study is to look at the elements of architecture that have been incorporated into the glasswork. This is done almost to evoke the idea that architecture itself is a form of religious devotion. Renaissance tracery windows, gothic quatrefoils and baroque altarpieces all serve as the framing devices around these dramatic biblical stories.

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Chapel of St. Clement

Walking into the church, we will study it from the right side chapels, towards the altar and then continue back down the left side chapels and finish in the treasury. The first chapel you see upon entering on your right is the Chapel of St. Clement. Here, you can look at a Romanesque sarcophagus from the 12th century. During the Romanesque period, a crypt was built in the church to bury the first Bohemian king and his descendants. This coffin most likely belongs to one of these royal family members. Despite its modest and unassuming appearance, it’s one of the oldest treasures of the church.

Chapel of Czech Patron Saints

Inside the Chapel of Czech Patron Saints is a fabulous neo-gothic altar sculpted by Czech artist J. Kastner in 1910. In the center of the altar is Christ on the cross, heavenly rays illuminating from his body and from behind the cross, forming a golden backdrop. Below him are gathered St. Cyril and St. Methodius dressed in brighly coloured robes. In front of them kneels St. Wenceslas on the left and St. Ludmila on the right. On the left side of the group are Czech saints St. Vit and St. Vojtěch, and behind them stands St. Sigismund and members of brotherhood of martyrs. On the right side, kneels St. Jan Nepomucký and St. Prokop. Above them stands St. Norbert, Vol. Anežka, and Damian, St. Ivan, vol. Josef.

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Chapel of the Virgin Mary of the Rain

One of the most important items found here in the basilica is the Dešťová or the icon of the Virgin Mary of Rain. She can be found in the fourth side chapel from the right after entering the church. This wooden polychrome icon depicts the Virgin Mary and the baby Jesus set against a vibrant blue backdrop. The background is textured to give the mother and child the appearance of being caught in a rainstorm. The ground on which they stand is bright green like it is growing swiftly beneath them.

The painting was made around 1356 and is legend to have been painted by St. Luke himself. This icon is one in which people come from all over the country to pray in front of, especially in times of drought. The reason for this is because in 1638 there was a great drought in Prague which the icon is said to have stopped. During the drought, one of the priests of the Vyšehrad chapter had a dream that if he held a procession with the Madonna, it would start to rain before the crowds made their way to a nearby monastery. The priest organized the march, and sure enough, it rained in Prague for the next three days. The people of Bohemia saw it as a miracle, and ever since, the painting has been venerated by all those who believe in it.

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Memorial Plaque

To the left of the Chapel of the Virgin of the Ramparts is a bronze memorial plaque placed on a column close to the altar. This memorial plaque is dedicated to Vratislav II, the first King of Bohemia. The plaque is a modern addition to the church added in 1992 on the 900th anniversary of the King’s death. If you look at the shape embedded onto the plaque, it models the original basilica floor plan. On either side of the statue of the King are two crests, one which contains the black eagle of Moravia and the other has the two crossed keys which are the emblem of the Vyšehrad religious chapter.

Presbytery

On either side of the presbytery, there are murals depicting St. Peter and Paul’s legend. We can see the ‘Conversation of St.Paul‘ on the top left pediment on the northern wall. The following small scenes show his miracles: healing the disabled, his conversations with God while in jail and finally his beheading and subsequent canonization

On the southern side, we have the legend of St. Peter. On the top, we see Jesus converting his first disciples, which include Peter himself. In the lower images, we can see scenes of Jesus and Peter’s life together. It follows their journey leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion, including the moment when Peter denied Jesus. At the bottom of the mural, we can spot St. Peter performing miracles and his eventual death in the same manner as he had seen Jesus be put to death.

Altar

The main altar, framed in front of a series of brilliant stained glass windows, contains depictions of the Slav Saints Cyril and Methodius. It was carved by the architect and woodcarver Josef Hrubeš. The entire altar took over 5 years to be completed and was finished in 1889.

Pulpit

The gracefully carved wooden pulpit on the left of the nave features reliefs of the various priests who preached and were prior members of the Vyšehrad Chapter. The pulpit was designed by architect Josef Mocker and carved by woodworker V. Mráz in 1883.

Devil’s Pillar

After getting over the initial awe and wonder of the interior, take a walk towards the sacristry. Although you cannot enter the doors of the sacristy, take a look at the mural painted above the entry. Here we find a large baroque painting depicting the legend of the “Devil’s Pillar.”

The Legend

The legend goes that a priest in Bohemia, had a severe problem with gambling. In the hopes of freeing himself from his debts, he asked the devil to trade his soul for some luck. But shortly after making the deal, he greatly regretted this decision and asked the devil to forget the agreement. But the devil would not give up on a soul that easily. Instead the devil made him another bet. He told him that if the priest could finish celebrating mass before the devil could bring a column from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome to Prague, he would release him from his contract. The priest ran as fast as he could to the church where he began preforming mass.

Of course, the devil cheated, and when he arrived by magic with the pillar in hand, St. Peter appeared and threw the devil into the sea three times. Each time he threw him, St. Peter broke the column until it was broken into three pieces. This allowed the priest to finish preforming mass, and his soul was saved. The three pieces of the Devil’s pillar were brought to Prague and can still be found in a nearby park close to the church.

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Chapel of St. Francis of Assisi

The Chapel of St. Francis of Assisi contains a neo-gothic altar with paintings of the life of St. Francis surrounding a large portrait of the saint himself. One of the best ways to identify St. Francis is by how he holds his hands outwards to show off the stigma that appears on them.

Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk

St. Jan Nepomucký or St. John of Nepomuk is one of the most famous saints in Bohemia. Nepomuk was drowned in the Vltava river at the behest of Wenceslaus IV when Nepomuk would not divulge the queen of Bohemia’s confessions to the King. His chapel here in the church contains a Neo-Gothic relic altar. Across the altar are scenes from the life of St. John of Nepomuk by Josef Mathauser who painted it around 1700. In the center of the altar of dozens of relics which are said to contain pieces of the saint himself.

Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows

Inside the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows is an alluring sculpture of the Pietà by Ferdinand Stuplesser made in 1898. It was modelled off Michelangelo‘s famous Pietà in Rome but features sharper edges and more angular drapery, reflecting the style used in medieval manuscripts.

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The Treasure Room

The Vyšehrad Chapter was one of the more affluent monastic groups and collected valuable liturgical collections over the years. But in 1611, many of their most precious objects were looted during the Hussite wars. A few of their most treasured items were hidden away and can be seen on display inside the treasury. The Treasury inside the church contains all different precious ecclesiastical Czech objects. Baroque illustrated manuscripts, golden chalices and gem covered books hid behind protective glass.

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Some of the most precious items included in the treasury are reliquaries. A reliquary is a container for relics such as a saints’ physical remains, such as bones, pieces of clothing, or some object associated with saints or other religious figures. Here in the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul’s treasury you can find

St Valentine’s Relic

St Valentine’s relics. It is supposedly a chip of his shoulder blade. It was lost for years, and as recently as 2002, it was uncovered hidden away inside a gold-and-glass Baroque reliquary in the back of a long-forgotten storage closet.

Vyšehrad Cemetery

The set behind the church is the Vyšehrad Cemetery. Built in 1869, the cemetery was created as a resting place for some of Prague’s most treasured creatives. Here lies dozens of composers, artists, sculptors, writers, as well as those revolutionaries from the world of science and politics. The cemetery is the largest in Prague spreading over 0.81 hectares.

Slavín Tomb

The most majestic part of the cemetery is the Slavín Tomb, designed by Antonín Wiehl. The Slavín Tombs are considered a ‘pantheon,’ “a building in which the illustrious dead of a nation are buried or honoured.” The dramatic sculpture atop the tombs was carved by Josef Mauder. The pantheon contains 44 burial tombs, as well as various coffins and urns. 55 people were buried here under the magnanimous sculptures of “Mourning” and “Victory” represented as two alluring women.

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Famous Graves

Buried here is Alphonse Mucha, king of Czech Art Nouveau, along with; composer Antonín Dvořák, Art Nouveau sculptor Ladislav Šaloun, author Karel Čapek and many more.

The first person to be buried inside the Slavin Tomb was poet Julius Zeyer in 1901. On the tomb is inscribed one of his verses, “Its sons’ dust this mourning country returns to the earth. Their deeds it will, rejoicing, declare to all mankind.” Above the panels on the Slavín is written their motto, “Though dead, they still speak.”

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The rest of the tombs and gravestones found throughout the cemetery are wildly creative and works of art. It seemed like one after another, when people would pass away and be buried here, there was an expectation that their gravestone wouldn’t be something simple or traditional, rather something far more extraordinary.

There is even a large arcade, decorated with Tuscan sandstone pillars and a vaulted ceiling covered in art nouveau style paintings.

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This brings us to the end of the tour, but if you’re interested in spending more time in Vyšehrad, I implore you to do so! Just like this church is such a hidden gem, Vyšehrad has so many incredible places to visit and excellent restaurants that are happily tucked away from the tourist hoards.

In the comments, let me know if you were surprised not to see this church on other “must-see” lists in Prague or if you’ve been there before and were just as amazed as me by what you discovered!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Discover & Uncover the Hidden Gems of the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul in Prague first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Creating a Travel Capsule

My capsule dressing advice here can be adapted to various styles. I’ve created a very neutral base palette, which will work for almost everyone’s fashion sense. Most of the items I’ve included are pieces everyone already has in their closet. This way, you won’t need to go out and buy a whole bunch of new things. There are already plenty of more subdued examples of Fall dressing online. But I wanted to create a capsule styled towards the autumnal season with many colour pops throughout. I wanted to include some more alternative items but feel free to adapt these examples to your style. If you don’t like such bright colours, you can always use a similar hue in a different tone. Hopefully, you find something that works for you!

Check the Weather Before You Leave

Before we dive into the individual wardrobe times, here are some of my favourite general tips for packing for the Fall season. While this seems obvious, many people do a quick google months before they go and don’t really delve into the details the day before. If you’re expecting a colossal rainstorm, you might want to swap out a pair of cute ankle boots with a pair of sturdy rain booties. And despite the list below of average temperatures, you never know when there’s going to be a polar vortex or hurricane, which can drastically alter the weather. Check the forecast a few days before leaving to ensure you’ve got all the right things packed away and won’t be too surprised by the daily forecast.

Average Fall Temperatures in Mediterranean Europe:

September 26°c / 20°c with Average Precipitation 14mm
October 23°c / 17°c with Average Precipitation 53mm
November 18°c / 12°c with Average Precipitation 58mm

Try NOT to Look Like a Tourist

When you’re travelling, you want to be comfortable, of course! But being comfy shouldn’t look like you just woke up and rolled out of bed. Travelling for most people is perhaps when they take the most photos. So you want to be looking your best in them! We’ve all done it, threw on a pair of leggings just to avoid the idea of getting dressed when you’re jet-lagged. But when you see those photos afterwards, you’ll be disappointed. Many Mediterranean cities in Europe have the chicest fashion sense. So it’s nice to feel like you fit in. Looking like a tourist also means you might be an easy target for pickpockets.

Things NOT to wear:

• Baseball caps (just not a European thing)
• Athletic wear
• Dirty clothes
• High heels (yes, they look cute, but they’re hard to walk in and aren’t great for any old city with cobblestones)
• A cheap windbreaker (If you’re expecting inclement weather, bring a beautiful weatherproof coat which is still fashionable. Plastic windbreakers are a dead giveaway you’re a tourist)

Don’t Dress for Summer

If you’re visiting from a colder climate, it’s easy to want to throw on your summer clothes when it’s 28 degrees in Barcelona but 8 degrees back home. While I get this inclination, it will immediately make you look like a tourist. The minute the temp starts to drop, even a little, Barcelona’s residents begin to put away their shorts and start to dress for Fall. Fall is perhaps the chicest season, and you don’t want to miss out on these stylish outfits.

Pre-Plan Your Outfit

Take pictures on your phone before you leave off your pre-planned outfits. Especially if you’re tired or jetlagged, sometimes you don’t have time to think about your ensemble. So just popping on your phone and looking at your pre-plan outfits is an easy way to get effortlessly dressed for the day. I find this trick works insanely well, and it’s become one of my favourite tricks to looking super well put together without effort.

Know Your Rough Itinerary

To plan outfits appropriately, having a rough trip itinerary is an excellent idea. While you don’t need to know hour by hour what you’re up to, it’s a good idea to see if you will be going hiking, in which case you would have to bring a pair of hiking boots. Or if you’re planning on going to a fancy dinner restaurant, you might want to ensure you have an exquisite dress packed. If you are just having home-cooked meals at the hostel, you also want to ensure you don’t overpack those dressy items that won’t get used and take up much-needed waste in your carry-on.

Lean Towards Darker Colour Scheme

Choosing dark colours over light for most items sets you up for success. Darker tones are much more versatile. An LBD can quickly be dressed up compared to a white one with cute boots and fun jewellery. Also, if you have a smaller capsule, you’ll re-wear items multiple times. Darker colours will help mask any dirt you might pick up along the way and won’t need to be laundered as much.

Choose the Right Fabrics

During the Fall, it’s essential to wear the right materials. These are fabrics which are breathable but also warm. Wool, or any wool blend, is a great choice. Wool keeps the heat in when it’s cooler out but will also remain breathable, so you’re not just sweating inside a sauna as it begins to warm up. Wrinkles are a dead giveaway that you’re living out of a suitcase. Choosing fabrics like jerseys is great to pack since they won’t wrinkle. There are also lots of companies which make wrinkle-resistant fabrics which are a great choice.

Don’t Bring your Most Expensive Jewellery

Wearing expensive clothing or jewellery anywhere in the world can make you a target for pickpockets. This is a sign to them that you might have money to steal so I always find that travelling isn’t a time to bring those expensive pieces. Plus, when you’re jetlagged, you also don’t have the same kind of wits about you. I’ve lost a few pairs of earrings just with all the hustle and bustle of travelling, and thankfully they were all super cheap!

Try to Keep your Hair Simple

If you can get away without bringing a hair straightener or blow dryer, you’ll save a ton of space in your luggage. For someone people, this might mean keeping their hair up while travelling for ease, so I would make this a fun dressing exercise instead of a downer. I have fallen in love with these simple headbands for the Fall, which can really dress up any outfit. Velvet scrunchies or ribbons will also make a simple up-do a little fancier, and these take up almost no room in your suitcase.

Jackets

The coat you choose to bring might be one of your most important decisions. I have three options for you here, but you can pick out just two depending on the weather.

Faux Leather Moto Jacket: A sleek, faux leather black jacket is one of the most elegant items for your wardrobe. They look dressy paired with dark jeans or a dress but can look super street style when added to a more casual outfit.

Jean Jacket: A jean jacket is my ultimate travel must-have. They are so comfortable and yet also are such workhorses for any weather. They are adaptable and look as casual as they do chic.

Packable Puffer Jacket: This coat is SUPER lightweight and was honestly one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. It comes in various colours and can be compressed into a tiny ball. It’s the BEST for putting on in the morning and then stashing away in your bag when it warms up. I cannot express how lightweight it feels, but how much warmth it manages to keep in! SCIENCE! If you’re expecting torrential rain, this might not be the best, but an umbrella should be suitable for most rainy days as it’s rain-resistant (not proof).

Dresses

Long-Sleeve Dress: This yellow lace dress is a statement piece. Colourful dresses are great to bring since they are perfect for those more upscale evenings. This looser-fit style is comfy enough to wear all day without feeling constricted. Since it’s still all one colour, it can easily be dressed up or down and pair well with many items in the capsule.

Jersey Dress: Jersey dresses, especially those with pockets, are the perfect travel item. Light, wrinkle-free and easily layerable. I picked one with long sleeves for the Fall since it means you can wear it out on slightly less chilly days without a coat.

Long Sleeve Shirts

Cashmere Sweater: A cashmere sweater is one of those investment pieces which is ideal for travelling. It’s lightweight and breathable. And while it looks super lux, it feels so cozy and comfortable. The best of both worlds.

Deep V-Neck: A lightweight, deep v-neck is a simple but stylish look to throw on in the morning. There is just something about a v-neck which makes your entire outfit look smart. Pair that with a thin gold pendant, and you’re ready to hear out the door. This one is made from jersey, which is super easy for travelling as it doesn’t take up much room but is still full sleeves and won’t wrinkle.

Striped Shirt: A striped top feels like the perfect piece for your travel wardrobe no matter what the season but in Fall, I think it just pops! I love this one from ModCloth with a tiny fox in the top right which adds just a bit of fun to the simple, striped shirt!

Cardigan: Cardigans are great to pack with you since they can easily be layered on top of a shirt or dress and removed if it gets too hot. Or if it’s extra cold, you can always add a jacket on top. This luxurious wool cardigan in a bright burgundy is an excellent addition to the fall hues in the mix.

Short Sleeve Shirts

Camisole: A simple camisole is great for layering. This one has a bit of lace added, making it spiffy! It just looks a bit more thought out than a plain version. These come in all different colours so you can choose the best one for your wardrobe.

Typographic Tee: I adore a typographic shirt for travelling. When the words on the shirt seem to embody something about your travels, it just feels like the perfect thing to wear for killer photos. These little things can make a big difference in how you feel about your travel wardrobe. Don’t wake up and feel like you don’t like anything you brought. Wake up and be excited to wear what you did bring!

Blouse: This mustard-coloured blouse takes up practically no room in your suitcases. I love how bright it is; definitely a statement piece for photos! The little touch of a half-turtle neck and flared cap sleeves is one of those details that makes a big difference.

Bottoms

High-Waisted Skinny Jeans: Dark wash jeans in a skinny, high-waisted style are another great piece, as they seem to go with everything. Jeans are one of those items which can withstand weeks without washing and still maintain that fresh look! This is why all the bottoms I picked are made of denim.

Denim Skirt: A denim skirt is just one item I feel belongs to Autumn like nothing else. I picked light-wash denim for this item to provide a spectrum of tones for the bottoms.

Grey or Black Jeans: Dark wash denim or black jeans look super chic, and almost everyone already has one pair in their closet. If you have a pair that is dark enough, they can sometimes even look like blank slacks without the need for ironing.

Shoes

Flats: Pack yourself a pair of sophisticated flats. Easy to pack, lightweight and super cute. Leopard adds interest and texture to your shoes, making them look a bit more upscale. I went for a pair with the tiniest hint of a heel, so they remain extremely comfortable, but they also provide that elegant look you want if you’re wearing them out to a fancy dinner.

Ankle Boots: These are the most versatile shoes for Fall. They can look so sophisticated when paired with a dress, but they are super casual with bootcut jeans. Stick to ones with no big heel and the right insole for the most comfort when walking all day. 

The Modern Sneaker: Sneakers are often thought of as leisurewear wear, but there are so many styles available that look extremely dapper these days. Stick to low-profile sneakers; they look more dressy and less casual. They can be worn with skirts and dresses easily. Choose a sneaker in one or two colours. For me, I want to find something bright and colourful. But I also love these simple white kids as they go with EVERYTHING, and (when they’re clean) they look so modern.

Accessories

Infinity Scarf: An infinity scarf is essential for Fall and winter in Europe. You can wrap these around your neck and sometimes around your arms if caught in the rain, or the temperatures drop suddenly. It’s almost like a mini blanket!

Wool Hat: Even in the Fall, the sun is still out, and these wool hats are almost all you need to wear to suddenly turn an outfit from ordinary to super-stylish! Anyone who thinks they don’t look good in hats needs to try this one out because I truly feel like it suits everyone!

The Modern Backpack: Backpacks get a bad reputation for making you look like a tourist. But over the past year, I’ve seen more and more people wearing backpacks are high fashion. Chanel, Gucci and Dior have all come out with their own line of backpacks since people have finally realized they are so comfortable and easy to use but can also look amazingly chic! This piece from Modcloth is perfect for travelling since it’s extra secure. It has two belt loops to open and close it and also has some additional inside zippers to put your extra secure items. I think people go a little overboard regarding security, and most of those theft-proof bags are super ugly. This one works great and is just fiddly enough to keep out thieves but also be usable.

Sunglasses: There is still plenty of sun, and sunglasses are a fun accessory to bring that really brings out your personality. Choose whichever one is your favourite from your closet!

An umbrella (optional): Bring it along if you can see a ton of rain in the forecast and you have a sturdy yet compact one at home. If the forecast is pretty sketchy, I will leave this out. You can always buy one on the street; plenty of street vendors sell them during the storms. Or just jump into a department store where you can generally find them for sale pretty cheap.

PJs

One of the hottest trends this year is fashionable sleepwear which can be transitioned into daywear. One of the most popular companies doing this is Sleeper, which creates aw-worthy nightdresses and pyjamas that look like high-fashion womenswear. Having an outfit like this means you don’t need to pack pyjamas since you can wear just what you went to bed for dinner the next night. While Sleeper might be a bit lux for some people Target and even Zara, have also begun to come out with similar styles of night-into-day sleepwear. But the Atlanta Sleeper dress with the long sleeves is PERFECT for fall dressing.

Additional Packing Items:

• 2 bras
• one pair of underwear per day
• one pair of socks per day
• one pair of tights (great to layer if it’s extra chilly)
• Toiletry Bag
• External battery charger
• camera
• notebook and pen (I always keep travel notes, great way to reflect on your day)
• a book to read
• additional electorincs (kobo or other edreader, chargers etc.)

Example Outfits:

Below of some outfit ideas, I put together so you can get a taste of just how many looks you can put together from such a small capsule!

To download the checklist of all the items described in this post, click here!

Let me know what you’re favourite travel item for Fall is and how you style your wardrobe when travelling throughout the seasons!

Happy Travels Adventurers

The post The Ultimate Carry On Packing Guide to Europe in the Fall: What you NEED and What to SKIP first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

What NOT to do in Prague and what to do Instead!

1. Don't Watch the Astronomical Clock Show
2. Don't Walk Down Karlova Street
3. Don't Accept Anything you Didn't Order
4. Don't Hire a Taxi
5. Don't Visit the Charles Bridge at Midday
6. Don't Drink the Absinthe
7. Don't Think the "trdelnik" is Czech
8. Don't Take the #22 Tram
9. Don't Visit Wenceslas Square at night 
10. Don't Waste your Time on a Segway Tour
11. Don't Change Money on the Street
12. Don't take a "Historical" Car Tour
13. Don't Eat at the Restaurants in or near Old Town Square
14. Don't Overpay for Beer

Don’t Watch the Astronomical Clock Show

One of the most popular attractions in Prague is the Astronomical Clock “Show“. Every hour the clock chimes, music plays and figures dance around the dials. Tourists flock to the square during this time and create a mob around the clock, sometimes so thick you can barely see much of anything. They are usually all so loud too that you can’t even hear the music play.

Instead:

Wait a few minutes after the show has finished. Moments after, all the tourists flutter away and you’ll be staring up at this work of art almost all by yourself. If you’ve come to Prague to study the incredible art and architecture, skip watching the show in person – videos of it can be found easily on youtube, and spend your time up close and personal when the bucket listers have left. 

Don’t Walk Down Karlova Street

Karlova Street starts right behind the Hotel Aurus and ends at the foot of the Charles Bridge. Although the buildings which adorn the street have stunning baroque facades, this once historic street has been overtaken with cheesy souvenir shops selling silly tchotchkes from China at engorged priced. There are so many people in Prague trying to take advantage of the many tourists who come here that even the most Czech looking souvenir on this street is no doubt from overseas. The architecture is not worth the hubbub and you end up fighting your way through this densely frustrating street to even see much of anything. There are so many more lovely buildings you’ll see in other, less well-known areas of the city, so don’t feel like you’re missing out.

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Instead:

Head down to Havel’s Market. This is the oldest market in the city, dating back to 1232. Although it originally only sold produce to feed the people of the city, in later years it has begun to sell souvenirs and other handmade Czech goods from local artisans. This is where you can come to find a traditional souvenir for friends or family back at home which you can proudly boast is “made in Prague“. But be sure to taste test some of those amazing fruits and veggies too!

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Don’t Accept Anything you Didn’t Order

Until I had been to Prague I had never had any issues at restaurants while travelling so I didn’t think twice when I was given two welcome drinks I didn’t order. I thought they were merely a gift from the restaurants and would be free of charge. Boy, was I wrong! Luckily they only cost 3 euros so it wasn’t like it broke the bank but I felt so stupid and taken advantage of.

This is, unfortunately, a pretty common scam in Prague, especially in popular tourist restaurants. If your server comes to your table and doesn’t even offer you the drink, just put it down, be assertive and call him back to take it away. Study your bill upon leaving and don’t pay for anything you didn’t order. The staff will usually back down instantly once they realized they’ve been caught since they’re going for the easy mark. They’ll usually say it was merely a mistake and take it off your bill without any drama.

Instead:

Visit restaurants outside the city centre where these scams aren’t an issue and where you’ll find more authentic and traditional meals.

Don’t Hire a Taxi

Taxis are another common scam in Prague. Catching a cab outside popular tourist areas or from the train station means leaving yourself vulnerable to dishonest drivers. Almost none of them use the meter, even the reputable companies, and when you arrive at your destination they seem to make up a fee out of the blue which is often far, far more than you were originally quoted. Many tourists will find it hard to argue when it’s their word against the drivers and will simply pay the fare and be on their way. 

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Instead:

If you have a Czech SIM card or have a good international plan on your phone and can access the internet, and take advantage of UBER which has recently launched in Prague. This means you can check your fare before the cab arrives and you won’t be charged a surprising amount once at your destination. We used this a lot while we were there and had absolutely no issues!

If you are interested in exploring the city on your own, consider renting a car. AutoEurope has a big variety of cars in Czech Republic and since there are so many places out of town which can be a little difficult to get to on public transport, having your own car is a great way to find unique adventures.

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Don’t Visit the Charles Bridge at Midday

The Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic images and sights in Prague. And while I would never say to skip it all together, during the afternoon, this bridge is PACKED! Almost to the point where you can barely see anything but people! There is so much to look at and admire on this bridge and being overwhelmed by tourists isn’t the experience I’d want you to have your first time here.

Instead:

During the afternoon, use one of the other bridges to the north or south and nab yourself a beautiful picture of the Charles Bridge and the Prague skyline all in one. During the early morning or evening, the bridge is much less full and you can take the time to appreciate the beautiful statues and architecture which makes this bridge so iconic.

Don’t Drink the Absinthe

Walking down the cobblestone roads of Prague you can’t help you notice the dozens and dozens of signs for Absinthe. Absinthe was originally produced in Switzerland but became popular in France during the 18th century. Absinthe became a popular drink in Czechoslovakia in the early 1900s but the kinds of Absinthe you see in bars today is far from the real thing. Often you’ll even see it spelt “Absinth” without the “e”, since it’s missing the key ingredient to make it authentic absinthe. Most places don’t serve it the way it’s meant to be drank, resulting in a horribly bitter taste. While there are some bars which still offer the traditional serving, it’s better not to risk it.

Instead:

Indulge in the local spirits like plum or pear brandy or the dozens and dozens of cheap, local beer! These will often be half the price and more than twice as delicious!

Don’t Think the “trdelnik” is Czech

The “trdelnik” is a chimney-shaped pastry, coated in butter and cooked on a rotating spit over a charcoal fire. Then they are covered in your chosen topping like cinnamon sugar, nuts or Nutella. They are instagrammable and frankly, delicious, but they are NOT Czech. They are originally from Slovakia and arrived in Prague when the packs of tourists did. Don’t go around eating them day in and day out, saying you’re sampling local cuisine!

Instead:

Head to a mom and pop bakery where you can sample different traditional pastries for what ONE trdelnik would cost you. And without waiting in a long line too! They are just, if not more, tastey and will open your taste buds up to flavours you’ve never had before!

Don’t Take the #22 Tram

The #22 tram is notorious for having pickpockets. The #22 is the route most tourists take since it runs around the old town and drops you off at all the big ticket attractions. Since there are so many tourists on these trams, often crammed inside, it’s easy for pickpockets to spot their mark and do the deed without being noticed. If you do take a ride, be vigilant and hold onto your belongings in front of you so as to not be robbed in plain sight.

Instead:

Prague is much smaller than you might think and the best way to see it is on foot! While keeping your wits about you is another great tip if you find yourself riding the tram, walking allows you to wander off the set path and explore whatever catches your eye! Plus you’ll save a little bit of money which can be better spent on a cold beer to end a long day!

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Don’t Visit Wenceslas Square at night 

Wenceslas Square is one of the most historic areas of the city. This enormous square hosts some of the most incredible bohemia architecture and was the place of many revolutionary events in Prague’s history. During the day it is filled with happy locals and tourists alike enjoying public spaces but at night it’s a different story. This place attracts swarms of bachelor and bachelorette parties. They are often very drunk and disorderly and the best thing to do is to avoid them altogether. Drunken tourists seem to bring forth the darker side of the city. Prostitutes and scammers are known to frequent the square in the hopes of taking advantage of these tourists with their guards down.

Instead:

If you’re looking to take in the sights of a Baroque city lit up at night, head down to Old Town Square. The restaurants around the square are to be avoided due to their high costs and low quality but their presence brings lots of life to the square even at night meaning its a very safe place to explore. And when all those buildings are lit up they seem to emit an ethereal glow.

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Don’t Waste your Time on a Segway Tour

Segway tours have become an epidemic throughout Europe. And the locals despise them. Segways are “two-wheeled, self-balancing personal transportation vehicles”. They rush along the sidewalks at speeds which are quite dangerous to pedestrians especially when the riders might not be too experience or even perhaps under the influence. Often you see tourists spending more time trying to figure out how to use these vehicles than spending time enjoying the sights. Be kind to the people who call this city home and don’t take a ride on these dangerous machines.

Instead:

If you’re looking for a different kind of guided tour, don’t go for the Segways. Try out of Foodie tour where you explore the city through its culinary culture. Or try Urban Adventures’s retro bike tour where you can ride on bikes which were made in communist Czechoslovakia and see the best Prague has to offer to boot.

Don’t Change Money on the Street

Although Prague does accept Euros, they are exchanged in most establishments at a much lower exchange rate than if you were using the Czech Koruna. If you have Euros and you’re hoping to exchange them for Czech Koruna’s you’ll find yourself at the mercy of one of Prague’s popular scams. Many “exchange” bureaus around old town aren’t actually official money exchange businesses and will give you immensely lower rates than official exchange. These places have been known to list one rate on the signage outside but once you come inside they change it without you noticing. Another common scam is the people exchanging money on the street. These are full on rip-offs as these vendors will give you fake currency instead of real Czech Korunas.

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Instead:

Stick to ATMs. The best way to get Czech Koruna is either to bring it with you from your bank back home or to take money out at a reliable ATM whose brand name you’re familiar with. Yes, this means you’ll have to pay some bank fees but it is definitely the easiest and safest option. 

Don’t take a “Historical” Car Tour

All over old town, you’ll see signs advertising “Historical Car Tours“. For 60 minutes and around 120 euros, you’ll be driven across the historic areas of Prague with a driver “guide”. These guides often barely speak with the riders and since the cars are all open tops, it’s very hard to hear what they’re saying anyway. The “historic” cars are anything but. While they might have been given the appearance of a vintage car, they are mostly brand new replicas. Since, as we’ve mentioned before, Prague is a rather small town, it’s extremely easy to visit on foot and by only sticking to the main roads you’re going to miss so much of the magic.

Instead:

If you’re interested in learning about retro cars, head to the Trabant Museum. The Trabant was a car made in East Germany in the 1950s. The museum is small but full of interesting facts, tchotchkies and real cars from this short-lived era of auto manufacturing. Trabant enthusiasts from Prague loved racing these cars and their devotion to this model grew into the museum you see today.

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Don’t Eat at the Restaurants in or near Old Town Square

Old Town Square is one of the most beautiful parts of Prague. And so many of its buildings, statues and museums require your undivided attention. But what doesn’t are the subpar, kitschy and unremarkable restaurants which line the bottom floor of the square. These restaurants also charge about three times the price of meals you’d find in other restaurants well outside the Old Town Square and the waiters are usually pretty grumpy since they deal with tourists all day. 

Instead:

If you’re looking for a wonderful traditional meal, avoid any tourist centre. Look for menus with NO ENGLISH listed on the signs outside. I know this might sound intimidating but trust me, once you get inside they often do have one or two menus in English or the kind waiters will be more than happy to help you order the chef’s specialities. In establishments like this you’ll find better food, better prices and amazing service!

Don’t Overpay for Beer

Locally produced beer in Prague is wonderful, fresh and it SHOULD be cheap! If you find yourself at a restaurant paying over 4 euros for Pilsner Urquell, you’re overpaying. Urquell is a great benchmark for judging the fairness of the restaurant you’re dining at. Specialty microbrews will, of course, run you a little more but should never be over 6 Euros for a pint.

Instead:

If you’re looking to sample a fair few of Prague’s best beers, you should definitely visit the Prague Beer Museum. Don’t’ let the name fool you, it’s no museum. It basically a giant pub serving hundreds and hundreds of different brews. Knowledgeable servers and staff can help you find the best brew for your tastes at reasonable prices and a stunning environment!

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Don’t let these warnings scare you away from this incredible city. There is a reason so many people flock here. Prague is truly unrivalled in terms of beauty and character. And while there may be people who come here to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists, armed with this knowledge in advance, you’ll be no easy mark. You’ll be able to make your way across this marvelous city without a care in the world outside of saying, “I don’t want to leave.“

The post What NOT To Do on your Next Trip to Prague And Amazing Things to Do Instead! first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

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Van Gogh was born in Zundert but spent one of the most important years of his life as a painter in Arles, France. Arles and the provincial countryside inspired Van Gogh to create brighter and more exciting landscapes. This walking tour will wind you across the city, through its narrow, quaint and beautiful cobblestone backstreets. Our journey takes us along the Rhone River and into the various picturesque squares that Arles is famous for. The walking tour will show you the various works of art that Van Gogh painted while living in Arles and the buildings he frequented as a resident of this historic city. 

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Table Of Contents

1. History
2. Accommodation
3. Access
4. Walking Tour
5. The Alyscamps
6. Jardin d’Eté 
7. Roman Amphitheatre
8. Rue Voltaire
9. Restaurant Carrel
10. Yellow House
11. Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône
12. Musée Réattu
13. Vincent van Gogh Foundation Arles
14. Place du Forum
15. Le Café Van Gogh
16. Old Arles Hospital
17. The Bridge of Trinquetaille
18. Get the Downloadable PDF of the Van Gogh Arles Walking Tour!

History

Roman Arles

Arles, a large city in the French region of Provence, has a long history that dates back to Roman times. Back then, it was one of the most important cities in the Empire. There are signs of occupations as early as 800 BC. The Romans took over the town in 123 BC and continued to enrich the city with their incredible architecture and infrastructure. Emperor Constantine I built the Roman bathhouses. His son, Constantine II, was born in Arles as the emperor had made it a home away from home. In 408 BC, the new emperor Constantine made Arles the capital city of Rome. Arles became a cultural and religious centre throughout the late Roman Empire.

For hundreds of years, the city of Arles continued to hold absolute authority over those in power. Arles joined the countship of Provence in 1239. Due to its proximity to the river, it was a mighty trade city. But in the 19th century, with the advent of the railroad, its significance began to diminish. The town became stagnant, with little to no modern development.

Van Gogh Comes to Arles

But this relic from the past was precisely why Van Gogh was so drawn to the city. The city was full of memories yet peaceful enough to feel like an escape. Everywhere he looked, it seemed as if something was waiting to be discovered.

Sadly, after years of poverty and suffering from various mental illnesses, Van Gogh committed suicide at age 37. But this was not the end of his story. Despite not being appreciated during his lifetime, his impact in the history books is unmatched. And Van Gogh’s stories from Arles put the city back on the map. After years of almost being forgotten, the city suddenly was a hot spot for visitors trying to follow in his footsteps.

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Accommodation

If you want to spend a night in Arles, the best place to stay is the little B&B, L’aubergine Rouge. This little hotel is tucked away in the southwest corner of Arles on one of the most darling streets you’ll ever wander down. They have several rooms inspired by the painter where you’ll feel like you’re sleeping inside of his paintings.

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Access

Most people arriving in Arles arrive either by car or by train. Arles is just an hour from Marseille, 35 minutes from Nimes, and 40 minutes from Avignon if you rent a car. Often you’ll find if you are travelling from either Nimes, Marseille or Avignon, the train is often an even faster journey than driving! So long as the departure and arrival times align with your plans. The train from Nimes is 30 minutes, Marseille takes 45 minutes, and Avignon is only a 20 minutes journey. Most days, trains arrive and depart about every hour from these cities.

If you are driving into Arles for the day, the best place to park your car is in the Parking Garage near the Post Office. This is just on the outskirts of town, meaning you won’t have to drive through too many narrow streets. Since it’s a little outside the centre, you also won’t have to pay a huge mark up for being in the middle of town. This parking lot is very reasonably priced and right beside the first stop on our tour.

Walking Tour

The Alyscamps

The first stop on the walking tour is the Alyscamps Necropolis. The Alyscamps is one of the oldest Roman ruins in Arles. Roman cities didn’t allow burials inside the city limit for fear of dead infecting the living. Therefore, roads into the city were often lined with tombs and mausoleums. And the Alyscamps was THE place to be buried! People had bodies shipped from all over Europe for the honour of being buried here. 

But during the middle ages, when it became more traditional to be buried in a church graveyard, the Alyscamps fell out of fashion. In the Renaissance, old roman sarcophagi were given as gifts to visiting dignitaries. And others were looted by local thieves. All of this contributed to the Alyscamps falling into disrepair, and eventually, it was a forgotten piece of history. The site was wild and overgrown and yet a naturally beautiful environment.

When Van Gogh arrived in Arles, it was still a ruin. He painted four scenes here in 1888, sitting in front of the ancient Roman ruins. Paul Gauguin was staying with Van Gogh during this period. Although their relationship was fraught with hardship, it also inspired the best in both artists. Van Gogh gifted one of his Alyscamps paintings to Gaugin. And even lost past his death, this painting hung in Gaugin’s room for years. Since Van Gogh made it famous once more, the UNESCO World Heritage group has turned it into a heritage site. And restored much of the place to be appreciated by visitors once more.

Jardin d’Eté 

Walk north along the Avenue des Alyscamps and turn left down Avenue Victor Hugo. On the north side of the street, you will begin to see the bright green grass of the Jardin d’Eté starting to peek through. 

The Jardin d’Eté is a relaxing urban park situated against the backdrop of the ancient Roman amphitheatre. There are dozens of fountains and playgrounds, so it’s a great place for kids to have a nice runaround.

For Van Gogh, it was a place he would often come to paint on sunny, summer days. In a letter to his sister, he wrote of the gardens in the park:

I don’t know whether you can understand that one may make a poem by arranging colours…Similarly, the bizarre lines, purposely selected and multiplied, meandering all through the picture may not present a literal image of the garden, but they may present it to our minds as if in a dream.

Van Gogh

Roman Amphitheatre

Walk north along the pathways in the park until you can exit to the east of the Roman Amphitheatre. You’ll walk out onto Rue Porte de Laure. Continue walking along until you reach the imposing Roman Arena. Built in 90 AD, the amphitheatre was capable of seating over 20,000 spectators. People would come from far and wide to watch chariot races and bloody hand-to-hand battles. Unlike the Colosseum in Rome, this amphitheatre is still used for concerts and festivals to this very day.

Vincent went to many bullfights in his time in Arles. He wrote to his friend: 

Have seen bullfights in the arenas. The crowd was magnificent, great multicoloured crowds. One on top of the other on 2, three tiers, with the effect of sun and shade and the shadow cast by the immense circle.

Van Gogh

Van Gogh painted a scene in 1888 entitled Arena in Arles. The painting is more focused on the spectators than the action or environment. It is a rough and tumble painting. Quick brush strokes and unfinished shapes are obscured in the background. The speed of the painting reflects the voracious atmosphere of the bullfights. A small bull can be seen off in the distance. Spectators are excitedly turning to chat with their neighbours and cheering for their favourite fighters.

This jittery motion used throughout the painting was a technique that Van Gogh perfected under Gauguin’s influence. His paintings of dance halls also had the same, almost unfinished approach. This technique conveyed to the viewer the idea that some spaces were filled with such powerful energy they simply couldn’t be captured in a moment of stillness.

Rue Voltaire

From the arena, walk north along Rue Voltaire. Walking down this street is like taking a step back in time. Dozens of vibrant cafes and restaurants pour out onto the street. Dazzling awnings hang off ancient stone buildings. Pastel shutters brighten up the rainiest day. You will see so many little scenes as you walk, which could have stepped right out from one of Van Gogh’s paintings.

Restaurant Carrel

When you reach Rue Léon Blum, turn left and stop on the corner of Rue Amédée Pichot. When Van Gogh first moved to Arles, he stayed in a room above the Restaurant Carrel, owned by Albert Carrel and his wife. Vincent wrote to his brother Theo when he arrived in Arles:

At times it seems to me that my blood is more or less ready to start circulating again, which wasn’t the case lately in Paris, I really couldn’t stand it anymore.

Van Gogh

Shortly after arriving in Arles, the lack of creativity he experienced in Paris disappeared. With his creative spark alight once more, he painted View of a Butcher’s Shop. One can imagine that this butcher shop perhaps was painted from the very room he stayed in. Walking up and down this otherwise ubiquitous street gives you a sense of the area Vincent first called home in Arles.

But Van Gogh didn’t live on this street for long as he often had mighty disagreements with his landlord. While he might not have loved his landlord, he did love the neighbourhood. It wouldn’t be long until Van Gogh would soon move into his iconic Yellow House, which was just up the street.

As you near the end of the Street, Rue Voltaire turns into Rue de less Cavalerie. You will pass through the two giant aged guard towers. These towers are surrounded on either side by the ancient city walls.

Yellow House

Across the roundabout, at the corner of Rue Georges Tinarage and Avenue de Stalingrad, is a simple restaurant. But this was once where you would have found Van Gogh’s beloved home. The same one featured in his painting The Yellow House. 

The original house had four rooms and a small studio. Vincent painted the entire building bright, sunflower yellow. In the painting, you can see a train rushing by in the distance. These trains were Vincent’s way into the countryside, his beloved muse. More than any woman. He loved the city, but the wild sunflower fields, blossoming fruit trees, charming peasants and golden wheat fields were where his brush came alive.

Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône

Turning left, make your way towards the Rhone River. Here you’ll find the scene from painting Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône. Don’t get this mixed up with Starry Night, although they are both very similar and show Van Gogh’s obsession with capturing night effects. In a letter he wrote to his brother Theo, he said:

Often it seems to me the night is even more richly coloured than the day.

Van Gogh

Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône is an explosion of blue; Prussian blue, ultramarine and cobalt. Each one of these colours are contrasted with intense orange and yellow. The firery colours representing the gas lights reflecting in the water. A man and his wife walk along the shore away three boats, bobbing in the water. Whereas Starry Night is a dreamlike fury of brush strokes, Nuit étoilée sure le Rhône is a much calmer scene. The brush strokes are evenly spaced, and even the lights on the water are still. Not a single ripple seems to disturb them.

Musée Réattu

Continue walking down the water’s edge. The fantastic pedestrian promenade is ideal for taking in all the sights along the river. After about five minutes, you’ll reach the Musée Réattu. When Van Gogh lived in Arles the museum was a place he hated. He is quoted as saying:

The women are beautiful here, it’s no joke — on the other hand, the Arles museum is dreadful and a joke.

Van Gogh

Van Gogh was very judgmental of other artists. Perhaps out of jealousy of those who seemed to manage to make the kind of living, he would never. During his lifetime, he only sold one painting. He couldn’t understand how people could see the greatest in these artists and not himself.

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Vincent van Gogh Foundation Arles

As a cosmic coincidence, the Vincent van Gogh Foundation in Arles is located only a few minutes south of the Musée Réattu. In 1983, Yolande Clergue founded the Association for the Creation of the Foundation Van Gogh. He was a long-time resident of Arles and believed there should be an institute to study and educate people on Van Gogh’s influence on modern artists in Provence. In 2010, the city of Arles gave the historic Hôtel Léautaud de Donines to the institute. It was renovated to become an educational space.

The museum features a large collection of Van Gogh’s letters and perhaps one or two original Van Gogh paintings. Don’t come here expecting to see those famous works of art. The museum is meant to highlight modern artists influenced by Van Gogh and the city of Arles.

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Place du Forum

Walking along Rue du Dr Fanton and turning down Rue de la Place, you will come up the Place du Forum. The Place du Forum was once the historic city centre during the Roman ages. You can still see one of the ancient columns embedded into the side of the Nord-Pinus Grand Hotel.

Vincent’s fixation on the appearance of the world at night continues and is highlighted in Café Terrace at Night. He said in a letter:

In the past, they used to draw, and paint the picture from the drawing in the daytime. But I find that it suits me to paint the thing straight away. It’s quite true that I may take a blue for green in the dark, a blue lilac with a pink lilac since you can’t make out the nature of the tone. But it’s the only way of getting away from the conventional black night with a poor, pallid and whitish light, while in fact, a mere candle by itself gives us the richest yellows and oranges.

Van Gogh

Le Café Van Gogh

Despite Vincent’s lack of popularity in his lifetime, Van Gogh is big business these days. Le Café Van Gogh is a recreation of the original cafe from the painting. Although it’s not the authentic spots from the painting, it has been done up to look as much like the real thing as possible. While the square is pretty busy and expensive, it is also a stunning place to sit with a coffee and enjoy the scenery. 

Old Arles Hospital

Walk south from the forum until you reach the Old Arles Hospital. One evening, after Gauguin had made it clear to Vincent that he had made plans to leave, Van Gogh returned home alone. Suffering from hearing voices, especially when left alone, Van Gogh was tormented. In a fit of madness, he cut off his ear. Perhaps as a means to cut out the noise of the voices. Van Gogh bandaged the wound and wrapped the ear in the paper. He delivered it to a cleaning woman who worked at a local brothel that Gaugin and Van Gogh frequented together.

Van Gogh was found unconscious by a policeman and taken directly to the Old Arles Hospital the following day. Félix Rey, a young doctor still in training, treated him inside his hospital. Van Gogh was diagnosed with “acute mania with generalized delirium during his time in hospital.” Vincent would go from being semi-lucid to suffering from hallucinations and delusions. His brother Theo came to visit him in hospital despite getting engaged the day previous. Nothing would keep Theo from being by Vincent’s side.

Hospital in Arles

Dr. Rey felt sorry for Vincent. He would allow Vincent into the courtyard to paint on his more lucid days. And paint he did. Even today, this courtyard manages to bring a sense of peace to even the most scattered mind. The golden walls seem to glow in the sunlight. The garden is full of lustrous flowers which burst open in the afternoon. Van Gogh’s painting, Hospital in Arles, depicted the courtyard in 1888. Looking at it today, you can barely see the passage of time between the two.

Ward in the Hospital in Arles

He also created two other paintings during his stay in the hospital. One was a gift to Dr. Félix Rey. It was a portrait of the beloved doctor who showed Vincent genuine kindness. The second painting is entitled Ward in the Hospital in Arles. The scene is quiet and simple. But Vincent’s slight distortions represent the isolation and confinement while living here. 

Starry Night

In 1889, Van Gogh was committed to the Saint-Paul de Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy de Provence. From there managed to channel his pain into one of the most impactful paintings, Starry Night. This painting is all about dreams versus reality. The natural versus the divine. It brings us into the beautiful madness inside Van Gogh’s mind. In his mind, he lived in the stars, beloved and looked up to by everyone on earth. The swirling, fluid paint in the sky contrasts the rigid city landscape below. Like a window into the heavens, a wonderful dream, unlike our structured reality. 

The Bridge of Trinquetaille

Walking back towards the river, walk up the water’s edge. Here you can see the scene from the painting of The Bridge of Trinquetaille. Van Gogh was in love with bridges. They are frequently featured in his works. In a letter to his brother, he wrote:

I have a View of the Rhône — the Trinquetaille iron bridge, where the sky and the river are the colour of absinthe — the quays a lilac tone, the people leaning on the parapet almost black, the iron bridge an intense blue — with a bright orange note in the blue background and an intense Veronese green note. One more effort that’s far from finished — but one at least where I’m attempting something more heartbroken and therefore more heartbreaking.

Van Gogh

Walk out to the centre of the Pont de Trinquetaille, where you’ll have a beautiful view across the Rhone River. Looking out, see if you can spot all those magnificent colours Van Gogh spoke about in his letter. Van Gogh is an artist whose use of colour is unparalleled. He saw the world in a way that many of us simply miss. Take this time to yourself. Put away your phone or camera for the moment and simply look over the horizon.

While Van Gogh’s depression was something he couldn’t overcome, there is no doubt that, at least for a time, Arles gave him a momentary respite from the overwhelming sadness he felt in his soul. And no matter who you are, I hope that visiting Arles brings you the same sense of peace Van Gogh felt when he was here. You may even see a little bit of that magic Van Gogh etched into history. And bring a little bit of that magic home with you too!

Get the Downloadable PDF of the Van Gogh Arles Walking Tour!

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Although some of these markets can be a bit touristy, their appeal to foreigners and locals alike is for a reason. They are incredible places to visit with some of the best food in the entire city. Along the famous tourist drag, Las Ramblas, you’ll find one of Europe’s largest and most fantastic food market: La Boqueria. La Boqueria Market is the perfect place to get the best sense of what Catalan cuisine and culture is made up of.

Table Of Contents

1. Hours and Access
2. History
3. Tips
4. El Pinotxo
5. Fruit
6. Olives
7. Seafood
8. Cheese
9. Meat
10. Nuts and Spices
11. Clams

Hours and Access

The easiest way to access the market is to take the Green Metro line to Liceu Station, and from there it’s a short one minute walk over to the market. The market is open from 8 am till 8:30 pm Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays). While you can visit anytime during those hours, I highly recommend coming early in the morning or later in the evening. Hundreds of tourists pass through the gates every day, and your experience will be all the richer if you manage to arrive when it’s much less busy. Arriving the morning also means you can see the vendors coming and going, loading up their stalls with the catch or pick of the day.

History

Opened in 1217 as an open-air market, the first Boqueria was located right outside the old city walls. Since it was outside the official city of Barcelona, farmers saved on the taxes city dwellers had to pay on their goods. It was also more easily accessible for merchants travelling in and out of the countryside as they didn’t have to venture as far into the city. As the market grew, it was relocated in 1827 to Las Ramblas. La Boqueria is derived from the Catalan word “boc” meaning “goat” since goats were often popular meat sold at the market.

The marker is divided into sections based on what the vendors are selling which makes it easy to explore. With over 200 vendors, you’ll be thankful for this organization, especially if you’re looking for something in particular.

Tips

Before entering the market, remember to keep in mind that this is a pickpocket hotspot. Barcelona itself is very famous for being a city with a high percentage of theft and in the market where it can be wall to wall people, it’s easy to brush up against someone and carefully steal their wallet without anyone noticing. Keep your money out of public view when paying and always be sure to keep your purse or knapsack closed (or even better – locked). I never had an encounter with someone I thought was a pickpocket but I was also very aware of my surroundings at all times, and I think that helps you avoid being a target to start with.

Make sure you visit an ATM before arriving. Although some vendors take credit cards, it’s not worth the fuss and time it takes to process and most widely prefer cash. Speaking a bit of Spanish, or even better Catalan, will go far with winning you some favour with the vendors. They all speak a lot of English as they deal with tourists on a daily basis but since you’re visiting their country it’s always nice to end the conversation with “Moltes gràcies”.

The towering grand iron entrance, topped with the iconic stained glass in Gaudi style leads you into a world of heady scents and brilliant colours! Vendors walk by carrying sopping wet fish, barrels of brightly coloured exotic fruits, bushels of raw nuts and freshly baked pastries.

El Pinotxo

If you arrive early enough or just happen to see a free table, don’t miss El Pinotxo. This tapas bar at the front of the market is so popular with tourists and locals alike that there rarely is a table in sight. But if you don’t mind waiting or managed to snag a free stool at the bar, you’ll be in luck since this place as some of the most fantastic tapas in Barcelona. One of their famous breakfast options is a plate of garbanzo beans with fresh blood sausage. Don’t let the name “blood sausage” put you off; it is absolutely delicious.

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If El Pinotxo is full try a seat at El Quim, another fantastic cafe selling outstanding breakfast plates. A traditional Catalan dish to try is fried baby squid atop a freshly cooked egg. The combination of fresh seafood and the creamy, rich egg is a wonderful explosion of flavour.

When you first enter the market, it’s good to do a quick lap before settling in on what you want to buy. There are so many stalls, often with many selling similar items so doing an initial lap will help you gauge the prices and find the best deal.

The stalls at the very front of the market, closest to Las Ramblas, are decidedly marked up since they are the most visible to tourists who don’t want to explore the entire market and would rather just poke their head inside. The rest of the market might not be as cheap as smaller less popular locations, but it’s by no means exclusively for the rich and offers great deals if you know where to look. 

Fruit

A freshly squeezed fruit juice is the perfect travel companion for you as your wander around stall to stall. These juices are legendary, both in person and all over Instagram. These come in a variety of flavours, and their vibrant colours and taste help wake you up in the morning.  My favourite is the papaya mixed with whatever you fancy. The colour it makes is to die for.

One of the best tips for visiting the market is to plan a picnic after your visit. Find a spot in the city you wanted to experience for a more extended period and camp out on a bench with your treasure trove of goodies.

Olives

Olives are plentiful throughout the market. Sitting lazily in baths of rich olive oil. There are all sorts of different varieties, and you can mix and match in a small take away container to enjoy later. Olive trees have sustained the people of Catalonia for millennia and there are over 54 different kinds of olive trees across Catalonia. Olive oil is also something that Catalonia excels in and is the perfect gift to bring home.

Seafood

Seafood, caught seemingly moments before, sits atop piles and piles of melting ice. You can easily find your way to the seafood section – just follow your nose. Due to its close proximity the shores of the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a city which was shaped by seafood. Galician mussels, red Palamos prawns, oysters and juicy squid are just some of the incredible goodies you can find in the seafood section.

One of the most popular things in the seafood department is salted cod. Salted cod is used to make Esqueixada, a traditional Catalan salad of shredded salt cod, tomatoes, onions, olive oil and vinegar, salt, and sometimes a garnish of olives or hard-boiled eggs.

Cheese

If you’re looking to create a cheese tray of local specialties, keep an eye out for Manchego (a sheep’s milk cheese with a firm texture and rich, sharp, buttery taste), Mató (a sweet, unsalted, unfermented cheese perfect when combined with apples and honey) and Serrat
(an intense round cheese made from sheep’s milk with an exterior that is traditionally decorated with different designs and shapes).

Meat

Catalan’s most popular food item has to be its famous Jamón Ibérico or Iberian ham. This cured meat is made from black Iberian pigs, and the flavour is distinctly Spanish with a subtle nutty flavour. Hundreds of legs of ham hang from the stalls and ceilings. There are also other types of ham from Serrano to Lomo, as well as bright red salami and chorizo. If you want some meat to-go, vendors will cut you fresh slices of ham and put it into these darling paper ice-cream cone for you to eat as you walk.

Nuts and Spices

If you’re looking for something to keep your energy up all day as you walk your way around Modernista Barcelona, be sure to stop by the Fruita Seca Morilla stall. This stall sells hundreds of different nuts and dried fruits. There are over 12 different kinds of almonds alone! 

Spain is one of the major saffron producers in the world and this is the essential ingredient to making one of Spain’s most popular dishes; paella. Tiny vials of saffron, worth their weight in gold, are for sale throughout the market and while they might seem costly, it’s a fraction of what you’ll pay back home.

Clams

Before leaving the market, I stopped off at Kiosko Universal. They have an incredible selection of fresh fish, and I just had to try the famous razor clams which are a local delicacy in Barcelona. They were juicy, sweet and tasted of the ocean – perfect for a midday snack.

In addition to my clams, I ordered a plate of fried Padron peppers. You can get these all over Barcelona but nowhere are they fresher than right from the market.

No matter what you come to the Market to buy, you are bound to have an incredible experience just walking up and down the aisles. There are so many things for sale here, and it’s the perfect place to come for souvenirs for loved ones back home. Because nothing touches the heart like something for your stomach

The post Discover the Ultimate Guide to Savoring the Flavors of La Boqueria Market: A Foodie’s Paradise first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. History
2. Location
3. Entrance
4. Practical Info
5. 1st Floor
   • Paprika
   • Hungarian Salami
   • Pastries
   • Mushrooms
6. 2nd Floor
7. Basement

History

The building was constructed in 1897 by Samu Pecz and funded by the then-mayor of Budapest, Károly Kamermayer, who wanted to give his city a first-class marketplace like the ones he’d visited in Paris and London.

One of the most distinguishing features of the exterior is its neoclassical facade and brightly coloured roof. The tile on the roof is Zsolnay tiles from Pécs, Budapest. These tiles were iconic due to their brilliant radiance. You can still spot the marketplace’s roof from across the Budapest skyline.

Location

The market is located next to the Danube river. When it first opened, ships could sail right into the harbour, next to the market, to unload their good. The building which once housed the customs office is now the home to Corvinus University. 

Entrance

When entering the Great Market, take a moment to study the elaborate neo-gothic gates adorn the entryway. Let your eyes turn upwards and gaze at the different designs created with the various hues of red bricks. The large triptych window allows light to pour in through the front of the entrance and makes everything shine!

Practical Info

The market is closed on Sunday, opens at 6am on other days, and closes at 5pm Monday, 6pm Tue-Fri and 3pm Saturday. You’ll notice how enormous it is! There are over 10,000 square meters of space inside the building. Remember to bring cash (Hungarian forints) to pay for all your purchases since most sellers don’t accept anything other than cash. If you have to use the washroom while in the market, there is a bathroom on the top floor, but it is a pay toilet so have some change ready.

The hall is covered in steel and glass, so farmers and artisans can sell their goods any day of the year without worrying about the weather. The intricate, wrought iron ribbing creates an artistic design against the bright orange rooftop. In the early days of the market, huge wagons carrying goods ran down the center aisle. The center aisle is much wider than the rest to make room for these enormous carts. It makes for a comfortable pedestrian walking path.

The entire structure was destroyed during WWII, and restoration took a long time. Delays were inevitable, but the constant problems they ran into meant that the restored market wasn’t finished until 1990. But great works take a long time, resulting in a stunning and faithful reconstruction of the original building’s architecture and ornamentation.

1st Floor

There are three floors which make up the marketplace. The first floor is the most interesting and contains the bulk of the content brought to the market daily. You’ll see seasonal produce, fresh meat, pastries, olives, exotic spices, and, most importantly – Hungarian specialties.

Paprika

Hungarian paprika is sold throughout the market. You can find it in the most lovely packages with intricate embroidery or inside retro-looking tin cans. Paprika is considered the national spice of Hungary, so it’s not just a souvenir but a mainstay of Hungarian cuisine. Hungarian paprika is made from toasted peppers and blended into a fine consistency. Some are hotter mixes than others, but most of them have a little bit of heat. Hungarian paprika is also slightly on the sweet side and very dark red. Looks for the words “edes” or “erdos.” Edes means sweet, and erdos means hot. You can also buy paprika as a paste in tubes.

Hungarian Salami

Another Hungarian staple hanging throughout the market is Hungarian salamis and sausages. Hungarian salami is sought after all over the world. The cured meat contains spices like garlic, peppers, caraway seeds and, of course, paprika. These cured sausages are ideal for picnics; just remember to bring or buy a knife to slice it over cheese, crackers or bread.

Pastries

A sweet treat found throughout the market is Rétes. Rétes are a strudel-like pastry log filled with fresh fruits such as apple, cherry, or poppy seed and topped with powdered sugar. We sampled the assorted berry variety, and it was delicious! 

If you’re looking for something a little more savoury, try the Sajtos Pogácsa or Cheese Scones. These are some with cheese or toppings like mushrooms and sausage for added flavour.

Mushrooms

Another item, favourited by the locals, is fresh and dried mushrooms found at the north end of the hall. These mushrooms are from worldwide, and you rarely find such a great selection.

2nd Floor

Upstairs, overlooking the market below, are various eateries and souvenir stalls. Many souvenirs here are Chinese-made knockoffs, so check the labels before you buy, but there are some gems in there. The embroidered items are the best thing to look for, as many of these are handmade and beautiful keepsakes of Budapest.

The food stalls on the second floor are unpretentious, cheap and tasty. Many stalls have been serving residents for years, so if you want to eat like a local, this is the place to go! You can find black pudding, fried sausages, stuffed cabbage, lángos (deep-fried dough with garlic, sour cream and cheese), and sweet pancakes. Give “Kolbice” a try – a whole wheat bread cone filled with mini sausages, cheddar cheese sauce and fresh sauerkraut.

If you feel like a drink, hop into the borozós (cheap bars), where you can have a glass of inexpensive Hungarian wine, beer or the popular, Unicum (a Hungarian herbal liqueur).

Basement

The basement is where you’ll find the “stinkier” items. Fishmongers, butchers, barrels, and pickles cover the basement, and you can certainly smell it as you descend. Hungarian pickles are incredible. There are so widely different varieties; they don’t seem to stop just at cucumbers and onions. They’ve even perfected a paprika-stuffed pickled cabbage!

If you’re on a budget, the Great Market is the best place to get authentic Hungarian food, quick and cheap. It’s also a reliable place to collect ingredients for the perfect picnic. Head out to the Danube to watch boats cruise up and down the river as you enjoy your tasty treasures.

The market is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a cultural hub where you can find a wide variety of local products, from fresh produce and traditional Hungarian delicacies to handmade crafts and souvenirs. It’s a great place to get a taste of the local culture, history, and cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff or just looking for a unique shopping experience, the Great Market Hall is sure to leave a lasting impression. We hope this guide has helped you to plan your visit and make the most of your time in the market. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the beautiful architecture, try some traditional Hungarian food, and explore the local culture. Happy travels!

The post A Guide to Budapest’s Great Market Hall first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. History
2. Architecture
3. Interior
4. St. Peter's Abbey Church
5. Catacombs
   • Gertrauden Chapel
6. Cemetery
   • Crypts
   • St. Mary's Chapel

History

In its early days, St. Peter’s was known worldwide for their monk lead writing classes which taught students expectational skills in literature, penmanship and printing. It still houses Austria’s oldest library, which contains manuscripts from as early as 734 AC.

Architecture

This building has a simple Baroque-styled exterior. Light cream-coloured stucco is decorated with banana cream whipped windows and trim. The Abbey’s onion-domed roofs can easily be seen across the Salzburg skyline.

Interior

Inside the church, the Rococo period explosions burst as soon as you walk in the doors. Swirling oceanic shapes curl on the ceiling; golden vines encrust walls. Frescos of various biblical scenes are painted along the nave, making the whole room burst with life and colours.

Inside, Mozart himself premiered his famous orchestra Mass in C Minor along with his wife, who performed the vocals for the performance. No doubt it would have been THE place to be in Salzburg that evening.

St. Peter’s Abbey Church

The organ’s swelling melodies still fill the church as the building is frequently used as a concert hall today. Standing in the middle of the nave, surrounded by all this artistic greatness, you feel a sense of majesty all around. I cannot describe how many little treasures were squeezed into this small space. Everywhere you looked, there seemed to be something new to uncover.

Catacombs

Before heading into the Cemetery, take a few minutes to explore the catacombs. To enter, you must climb up the steep steps carved into the Mönchsberg mountain. The catacombs dated back to 15 A.D. and were built by the early Christians. These mystical caves were also rudimentary shelters for the earliest settlers in Salzburg.

Gertrauden Chapel

Inside the catacombs, you’ll find the small Gertrauden Chapel, which dates back to 1178. Once you reach the top of the steps, you will enter the Maximus Chapel, with a great view of the Cemetery and the city below. These “chapels” are not more than little altars carved into the rocks. Miniature altarpieces sit atop the stone tables, and ancient carvings dot the walls as you walk past.

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Cemetery

Next, head back out to visit the Cemetery. The Cemetery is the oldest known Christian Cemetery in Austria and houses some of the wealthiest and most notables family in Salzburg’s history. 

Crypts

There are family crypts along the edges of the Cemetery, each one protected by elegant wrought iron gates. Inside, little touches of baroque architecture decorate the walls and floor of the crypts. This is where the aristocrats of Salzburg are buried. These inspired the cemetery scene in the Sound of Music when Maria and the Von Trapps hide from the Nazis.

These crypts are rented out; the more rent you pay, the more lovely the design of your crypt. Along with your monthly rent comes a florist who will create perfectly manicured flower boxes in front of your loved one’s tombs every month. This means that all the flowers in the Cemetery are cohesive, which gives the whole place a garden-like appearance.

St. Mary’s Chapel

The graves plotted throughout the Cemetery are filled with famous personalities from Salzburg, including artists, scholars and merchants, and Mozart’s dear sister.

While a cemetery tour might seem a bit macabre to some, wandering this darling little corner of Salzburg is as historical as beautiful and worth checking out if you happen to be visiting Salzburg anytime soon.

St. Peter’s Abbey and Cemetery is a hidden gem that should not be missed on any visit to Salzburg. With its rich history and beautiful architecture, it offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to discover the stories of the notable figures who have called Salzburg home.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post Unearthing the Secrets of St. Peter’s Abbey and Cemetery: A Guide to Exploring Salzburg’s Hidden Gem first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.