Table Of Contents

1. Access
2. Prague's Jewish Museum
3. Map of Walking Tour
4. History
5. Robert Guttmann Gallery
6. Spanish Synagogue
7. Kafka Memorial
8. Pařížská street | Paris Street
9. Restaurace U Stare Synagogy
10. High Synagogue
11. Jewish Town Hall
12. Old-New Jewish Synagogue
13. Golem of Prague
14. Klausen Synagogue
15. Old Jewish Cemetery
16. Ceremonial Hall
17. Maiselova 41
18. Siroka Street
19. Maisel Synagogue
20. Pinkas Synagogue
21. King Solomon Restaurant

Access

Prague’s Jewish Quarter is between Prague’s Old Town Square and the Vltava River. Our starting point is at the Robert Guttmann Gallery, only a 3-minute walk away from Old Town. Even if you’re coming from the other side of town, in the Castle district, Josefov is only a 20-minute walk. If you need to access the area by tram, the nearest tram stop is Právnická fakulta. But my favourite way to get around Prague is on foot.

Prague’s Jewish Museum

Most of the Jewish Quarter has been reestablished with the help of Prague’s Jewish Museum. While most of us might think of a “museum” as a static building, the Prague Jewish Museum is comprised of much more than just one building. The museum contains 40,000 artifacts, over 100,000 documents, and archives of the Czech Jewish population. All of these treasures are spread out over six different historical buildings within the Jewish Quarter. The various exhibitions of these artifacts are located in the multiple synagogues we will visit along the way.

Tickets to the Museum

While this tour covers the building’s exteriors and interiors, the interiors require an admission fee to the Jewish Museum. If you’re on a time crunch, you can visit the exteriors only. But, I would highly recommend going inside. And the Old Jewish cemetery, one of the most impactful parts of the journey, cannot be viewed without an entry ticket.

In addition to the sights you’ll miss, the admission fee you’ll pay helps preserve the history of this part of Prague. Creating more opportunities for future generations. The best way to get tickets is online. There are a variety of tickets available to buy, which will let you into a different combination of the interiors. My advice is to purchase the Jewish Town of Prague Combo Ticket. It costs CZK 550 or $25 USD for adults and 400 CZK or $18 USD for kids. This ticket includes entry to Old Jewish Cemetery, Old-New Synagogue, Spanish Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue, Ceremonial Hall and temporary exhibitons in the Robert Guttmann gallery.

Hours

The opening hours for the buildings which make up the Prague Museum are 9 am to 6 pm in the summer. And 9 am to 4:30 pm in the winter.

Be aware that the museums are open every day EXCEPT Saturday and all Jewish holidays. Since most other museums are usually closed on Monday, visiting the Prague Jewish Quarter on a Monday is a great thing to schedule when the rest of Prague’s museums are closed.

Map of Walking Tour

History

The streets of Josefov have seen their fair share of sadness and horror over the years. The Jewish Quarter’s dark history began in the 13th century. Riots between the Jewish people and Christians were becoming more and more frequent. To subdue these riots, the Fourth Council of the Lateran ordered the segregation of the Jewish people from the Christians. And the first “Jewish Quarter” was formed. Jewish citizens were ordered to vacate their homes throughout Prague and settle into this one area of the city. Spálená and Vladislavova street were two spots that still exist today where you could find the formations of the Jewish Quarter

The Renassaince in Prague

In the 16th century, Prague saw a kind of artistic and intellectual Renaissance. Academics and creatives from all across Europe began to flock to this mystical city. One of the most famous Jewish people to come to the city was Rabbi Loew. Rabbi Loew published more than 50 religious and philosophical books. Jacob Bashevi was another famous man who lived in this part of the city. And Jacob Bashevi was the first Jewish man to be knighted under the Hapsburg Empire.

But the man responsible for the Jewish quarters Golden Age was the great Mayor Mordechai Maisel. Today you can find one of the synagogues we’ll visit today named after Maisel himself. Maisel was Prague’s Minister of Finance and helped finance the development of the Quarter. He ensured the neighbourhood built new streets to support the growing infrastructure. New streets meant new building and the city had the finances, thanks to Maisel, to employ some of the best architects of the day. Resulting in the fantastical architecture you find in this area today.

Josefov

The Czech name ‘Josefov‘ for the neighbourhood was inspired by Emperor Josefov II. During his rule, Josefov made it a point to emancipate the Jewish population. Granting them equal rights as citizens of Prague. His mother, Empress Maria Theresa, had only years earlier expelled all the Jewish people from Prague. But once Josefov became the Holy Roman Emperor, he not only reversed his mother’s cruel ruling but also officially recognized their religion.

Josefov also named the Jewish Quarter an official district of Prague and abolished the name “ghetto” when referring to the area. At the time, Prague had one of the largest Jewish populations in Europe. Here, they had a dynamic and vibrant Jewish neighbourhood where they could practice their religion, enjoy community festivities and bask in the beauty of the neighbourhood they had built up.

WWII

But the good times wouldn’t last forever. In 1939, Germany officially occupied Czech lands. At the time, over 92,00 Jewish people were living in Prague. This accounted for 20% of the population of Prague. As tension and fears began to mount, 26,000 Jewish people fled the country, escaping Germany-occupied cities. The remaining Jewish citizens were eventually imprisoned in concentration camps in Terezin and more than 80% were deported to Auschwitz.

Over 97,000 Jewish people from Prague and all over the Czech republic died in WWII. Only about 15,000 Jewish Czech people survived. More than half of these Jewish people chose to move to Israel after the war. Few chose to return to Prague. The memories of the past too painful to face. As you walk along the cobblestone roads and gaze at the incredible architecture, take into your memory the people who lost their lives and never got to return.

The Preservation of the Jewish History of Prague

During World War II, after Hitler’s invasion of Prague, he made a surprising decision. Instead of burning and destroying all memory of the Jewish people, Hitler had his army collect almost all of Prague’s Jewish memorabilia. And preserved their synagogues. But his reason for doing so wasn’t out of any sort of pity or compassion. Prague’s Jewish history was only spared so Hitler could create his planned “Museum of an Extinct Race.” Millions of Jewish people across Europe perished during the Holocaust. But not all was lost.

After the war was over, the survivors freed, and the occupied cities restored, historians took back the stolen objects and artifacts taken in Prague. Despite over 60 synagogues across the Czech Republic and Europe that were destroyed, the ones in Prague remained.

Prague’s Jewish Quarter was now truly a precious treasure. As it contained such a large wealth of Jewish history in such a small area. In the 1980s, people began flocking to the city to marvel at its “Precious Legacy.” This was a new term was coined by the newly formed Prague Jewish Museum. They made it their mission to educate people and protect their beloved cultural histories.

Robert Guttmann Gallery

I think one of the best places to start this tour is at the Robert Guttmann Gallery. Entry into this gallery is included in the admission to the Jewish Museum. This gallery featured images, art and artifacts from Jewish life in Prague. Here you’ll see old photos of buildings we’ll explore later in the walking tour. It will also help you learn more about the Jewish people who came to Bohemian and Moravian. And all about the persecution they suffered over the years.

I think the information presented here in the gallery helps contextualize the rest of the tour. It makes the fact that we can still see these buildings, that they were not lost, all the more powerful. In addition to the historical galleries, there are also temporary exhibitions that focus on modern Jewish visual art and artists.

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Spanish Synagogue

After touring the gallery, get outside and head over to the Spanish Synagogue. The Spanish Synagogue stands in the spot where the oldest Synagogue in Prague, the Old School Temple, once stood. This Old School Temple Synagogue dated all the way back to 1142. But in the 19th century, the Old School synagogue wasn’t big enough for the growing community. So the new Spanish synagogue was built and the old one torn down.

The Spanish Synagogue is built in Moorish Revival Style, defined by its muscular horseshoe arches, the onion-shaped dome, and its intricate and ornate decorative patterns. These beautiful patterns can be found on both the exterior and interior decor. After being handed over to the Jewish museums in 1958, the museum found the synagogue needed a lot of restoration. This restoration wasn’t completed until 1998, when it was finally restored to its original beauty.

Interior of the Spanish Synagogue

You cannot visit the Spanish synagogue without stepping inside. The white exterior hides an absolutely spectacular secret. Stepping in the front doors, you’re immediately struck with a cacophony of colours and patterns. High above your head is the famed stained glass window of Magen David, designed in 1882.

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With everything going on around you, you might not think to look down at your feet, but I implore you to do so! You’ll marvel at the incredible gilded and polychromic arabesque parquet floors that spread throughout the synagogue. Arabesque flooring is defined by its use of flowers and foliage interlaced to create this mesmerizing pattern. Every inch of this interior is covered in decorations, and the place seems to vibrate from all the gold inside.

High above your head is the grandiose vaulted cupola. It is covered in lavish gilded decorations and vibrant colours. The skylight, in the shape of the star of David with pale red points, allows light to flow into the interior. Illuminating the room with a heavenly glow.

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Kafka Memorial

On the north side of the roundabout outside the Spanish Synagogue you’ll see the tall, puzzling statue of Franz Kafka. This was designed by artist Jaroslav Róna. Despite writing all of his literature in Germany, Franz Kafka was a prodigy from Prague. He was born in Prague and grew up in the old Jewish Quarter. His bar mitzvah was held at another stop on our tour; the Old-New synagogue.

Kafka’s memory and influence lives on through these little dedications found throughout the city. Kafka is most notable for his writings focused on anxiety and alienation. No doubt influenced by his life as a Jewish man in Prague’s Jewish Quarter. This statue in the square depicts the images of Franz Kafka atop the shoulders of a headless figure. This piece was a reference Kafka’s 1912 story, “Description of a Struggle.”

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Pařížská street | Paris Street

Continue walking down Široká until you reach Pařížská street. This is also known as “Paris Street.” Along Paris Street is where you’ll find high-end designer shops and trendy cafes. Inspired by the tree-lined avenues of Paris, Pařížská street saw a massive redesign in the 20th century. Happily for us, this took place during the height of the Art Nouveau period! Therefore most of the buildings in the Jewish Quarter are designed within that umbrella. While baroque is the predominant style of architecture throughout the rest of the city, the Jewish Quarter gets to flaunt this distinct style. The intersections of Pařížská and Široká are where you can find the most stunning examples.

Restaurace U Stare Synagogy

Take a stroll down Červená street. One of the most incredible examples of Art Nouveau architecturecan be found at the Restaurace U Stare Synagogy. This restaurant, located beside the High Synagogue, was built in 1907 by architects František Weyr and Richard Klenka.

While most art nouveau buildings in Prague are covered in white or pale pastel stucco, this building is painted a dark grey. And in some lights, I swear it is almost purple! This makes it stand out against the rest of the surrounding structures! The building is trimmed in bright gold ornaments. And its red-tiled roof is complemented with dark wood trim and wrought iron flourishes. In the early 1900s, the Czech Republic was a part of the Austro-Hungarian empire. As such, the Art Nouveau style we find in Prague is more reflective of the Austrian Secession Style.

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High Synagogue

Walk down the narrow Červená lane. Make a stop outside the unassuming beige stucco building with a steep red roof. This is one of the most elite synagogues in the Quarter, hidden inside these walls. This is the High synagogue or ‘Vysoká synagoga‘. “High” refers to the fact that it was built on the first floor, above ground level, to prevent the constant flooding the rest of the city suffered from. The High Synagogue was also located inside what used to be the Jewish Council of Elders room.

High Synagogue Interior

The interior was transformed into a space modelled after the great High synagogue built in Krakow in the 16th century. Mordechai Maisel donated the funds for its construction and granted the city a few of his personal historical pieces to be housed here. These included such precious items as his ancient Torah and silver pointer. Spared from the war were hundreds of old Hebrew books which were of great importance to the Jewish people.

Today, the synagogue’s interior is the best preserved of all the ones in the Quarter. Unfortunately, it is not open to the public. Standing outside the walls, let me help you picture the interior. Or refer to the pictures below. High gothic ribbed vaults cover the ceiling and gilded stucco rosettes decorate the peaks of the vaults. A candleabara and menorah sit on either side of the niches between the great Torah placed in the centre of the Synagogue.

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Jewish Town Hall

Walk a few more steps towards to the corner of Maiselova and Červená street. Here we come to find the great Jewish Town Hall. Although the original building was destroyed in a fire in 1754, this new version retains the Rococo designs of the original. The town hall was used as a local meeting house for the Jewish community. The building was, once more, financed by Mordechai Maisel, who at the time was the richest man in Prague. The older name for this building was actually the Maisel Town Hall. 

Clock Tower

Take your eyes from the street level to the top of the building. Here you’ll find a magnificent clock tower and spire. The top of the spire is finished with a finial in the shape of the star of David. Look closely and see if you can spot the small bell in the centre. This was used to call people to prayer or to announce meetings inside the town hall.

But what really makes this building unique are the two clocks. While the larger of the two on the very top of the tower is the most prominent, the smaller one is actually the one we’re going to focus on. This clock, located on the northern dormer window, has a dial with Hebrew numbers. And those dials run counterclockwise. This is because it is to be read the same as Hebrew writings, from right to left.

Old-New Jewish Synagogue

Turn around and look at the building on the northeast corner. Standing guard over this area is the solemn and enduring Old-New Jewish Synagogue. Also known as Altneushul in Yiddish. This is the first gothic building built in Prague, completed in 1270. It is the best example of Cistercian Gothic in Bohemia. It is also the oldest standing synagogue in Europe that is still used for religious services. It’s one thing to visit a building used as a museum, but another to see it in practice, just as it has been used for almost 1000 years.

The Old-New Jewish Synagogue has been the spiritual heart of the Jewish quarter since its construction. It was a place where people would not only come for prayer but also for celebrations. And as a place of refuge. Legend has it that the synagogue was first built atop a base of stones brought from Jerusalem. They were brought to the city by angels. Originally the temple was called the “New Synagogue” since it was the first one of its kind in Prague. But as time passed and newer synagogues began popping up, it became known as the “old synagogue”. Today, they combine the two nicknames to preserve their historical value.

Exterior of the Old New Synagogue

From the outside of the building, you can study its medieval twin nave design. On the western facade, you can see the dark red gothic brick gables and rather obtrusive support pillars which jut out from the sides. The lower roofline has a few large windows that look into the synagogue’s nave. Before, an addition was added where women could come and pray; this was the only place women could witness the services. As per Jewish doctrine, men and women are not allowed to sit in the same space inside a synagogue. This new annexe is located just on the northern side, to the left of this facade. Twelve gothic brick windows encircle the synagogue to let light inside. These twelve windows are representative of the 12 Israeli tribes, a number which is often repeated inside.

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Golem of Prague

One of the most important legends from this synagogue is that of the Golem of Prague. In Jewish folklore, a golem is a magical creature created from clay or mud by a powerful ritual. In 1389, over 3,000 Jewish people living in Prague were murdered by Catholics in a devastating event. Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel feared for his people after these attacks. He decided to protect them he needed to create a Golem. He went to the banks of the Vltava River and performed Hebrew incantations which created the Golem of Prague. They implored the Golem to defend the Prague Jewish Quarter from anti-Semitic attacks. The Golem lived in the synagogue’s attic and remained silent until his time of need.

During WWII, a nazi agent came to the temple to destroy it. He entered through the attic from the stairs on the outside. Upon entering the synagogue, he encountered the Golem. When the agent tried to stab the Golem, he was instantly killed. Therein the Golem protected the synagogue from being destroyed.

Today, there is still a set of iron stairs on the exterior. These are the very stairs used to access the attic. The last few steps have been removed to prevent anyone unsuspecting from entering the resting place of the Golem. Just in case they awaken him once more.

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Interior of the Synagogue

The interior of the synagogue is an assortment of several centuries of designs. The building has been expanded over the years, but the central nave has remained mostly unchanged since the 14th century. Entering the synagogue, you enter through the vestibule built in the 15th century. You’ll pass under the early gothic tympanum with a relief atop it featuring a tree with 12 vines. Each of the vines represents the 12 Israeli tribes we mentioned earlier.

Entering the synagogue’s nave, we can see that it’s a double nave design that slightly imitates a catholic church layout. This is because there were no Jewish architects at the time, so the designers who built this synagogue were drawing off their experience in building Catholic churches. Although there are not as many rules to building a synagogue as churches, the temple’s main focal point should be on the central axis facing Jerusalem. The ceiling of this great synagogue features a unique form of vaulting comprised of a five-rib vault instead of the traditional four. This fifth rib always arches towards the exterior walls to help with structural support. The decor throughout the temple features leaves and other natural elements. This is because, in Jewish synagogues, we do not have images of humans portrayed in a religious context.

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Bimah

In the centre of the nave is the bimah, an elevated platform where the rabbi comes to read the Torah during services. This bimah is the very same one that has been used since the late 15th century. Unlike some Catholic churches where the priests are hidden by the choir screen, the bimah allows the entire community to see the rabbi as he speaks. Surrounding the bimah are rows of seats. These seats also cleverly can flip down to be turned into desks. Desks are needed inside a synagogues since this is where medieval Jewish people would come to read, study and discuss philosophy and religions. Like a classroom for all ages.

Jewish Community of Prague Flag

Along the northern wall of the temple is the large red flag. This is the flag of the Jewish Community of Prague. It shows the Star of David with a small golden kipa (a traditional hat worn by Jewish men) in the centre. Surrounding the flag is the Hebrew prayer ‘Shema Yisrael‘ embroidered in gold thread. The flag was given to the people of Prague’s Jewish community by Ferdinand III, Holy Roman Emperor. It was a gift in recognition for their services in defence of Prague during the Thirty Years War. 

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Klausen Synagogue

Down the street from the Old-New Synagogue, on the corner of U Starého hřbitova street, is the oldest baroque synagogue in Prague, the Klausen Synagogue. In addition to being the oldest baroque building, it is also the largest surviving synagogue. The temple’s name comes from the Latin word “claustrum,” which means “small rooms.” The original building that once stood here consisted of three small rooms or spaces; a synagogue for religious services, a ritual bath, and a Talmud school where the renowned Rabbi Loew taught. The new 16th-century synagogue sits on the same site as the previous temple, which burnt down in the early 1600s.

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While the exterior of the building is rather simple brick, the interior is where this place truly shines. Stucco details decorate the ceiling and galleries. Motifs of ribbons and fruit, painted in pale greens, intertwine overhead. During the second world war, the Nazis destroyed most of the beautiful historic baroque decorations and furnishings. They turned the building into an ample storage space during the war. After the war, the building was restored back to its formed glory.

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Torah Ark Cabinet

But one item was spared from the destruction; the Holy Torah Ark. The Torah Ark is a cabinet, a piece of furniture found in temples where the precious Torah scrolls are kept. Standing at the front of the synagogue, you’ll still find this fantastic, three-storey-tall work of art. It is made entirely of marble, a mixture of red and green stones carved into an almost architectural feature. Perhaps it was too large and heavy for the Nazis to move. Whatever the reason, you feel like you’re truly standing in front of something extraordinary when you visit. So many of these items were lost after the war but this was spared. On each level of the Ark are various Hebrew inscriptions.

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Torah Scroll

Sitting in a glass case in front of the Ark is a copy of the Torah scroll unfurled. Different ornamental items used by the rabbi during services are also displayed in the glass case for visitors to admire. Many of these items would not usually be visible to the public during services, so this is an excellent opportunity to get up close and learn more about each item. It’s essential to know that this unrolled Torah is a copy of the original since Jewish people do not allow holy text to be publicly displayed.

Silver Torah shields show the congregation what reading would take place that day. You can study the gold Hanukkah lamps and a silver Pidyon ha-Ben trayf from the 19th century, which depicts a scene of the exodus of the Jewish people from Egypt. One of my favourite parts of the synagogue is the single circular stained glass window. The pale blue circle is decorated with the star of David in beautiful golden glass. Against the rather monotone interior colours, this vibrant burst of colour really stands out!

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Old Jewish Cemetery

Behind the Klausen Synagogue, we find the moss-covered stones and footstep-worn pathways of the Old Jewish Cemetery. Here is where some of the oldest residents of Prague’s Jewish Quarter have been laid to rest. The original Jewish cemetery was located where we can now find Vladislava street. The original cemetery was dubbed the “Jewish Garden” as most of it was left to the elements, and it became overgrown and wild. Residents of the neighbourhood began to complain about the smell, and the community was ordered to move the cemetery in 1478.

Morbidly, the roads of New Town were actually built atop these old tombs. Although there is no recorded history of when the Old Cemetery (then the “new cemetery”) was established, we know that its earliest recorded gravestone dates back to 1439. The last person to be buried here was during the 17th century, after Emperor Josef II banned burials anywhere inside the city walls for hygienic reasons.

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Jewish Gravestones

Waking in this cemetery for the first time is a powerful moment for those who have never seen it. We usually think of cemeteries in a very organized and orderly way. Each stone is given its own plot of land sectioned a few feet away from another. But the Old Jewish Cemetery is entirely different. The gravestones look like a pile of dominos, stacked one on top of the other in an almost haphazard fashion. The sprawling grounds of the cemetery roll up and down, spread out on various levels.

In Jewish law, deceased ancestors are not allowed to be moved or tombstones to be removed. Despite buying more and more land eventually, there was no space left for new burials. Because there was nowhere left to expand, a new layer of soil was piled on top of the old graves to make room for new ones. In some areas, more than 12 layers of graves are stacked on top of each other! There is something genuinely overpowering upon seeing these piles of graves. The magnitude of the number of people who once lived in this area thrust upon you.

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Reading Symbols

Studying the various tombstones is one of the most interesting parts of walking through the graveyard. Even if you can’t read the Hebrew words carved into the stones, each one is still visually arresting. There are two different kinds of monuments in the cemetery. One is a simple headstone; these are the most common ones you’ll see almost everywhere throughout the cemetery. The other one is much larger and looks almost like a stone tent. These are called tumbas and were significant community members during the baroque era. In the 16th century, Jewish gravestones were not just marked in Hebrew with the date of the person’s birth and death. They also included a eulogy of the life of the deceased. This is why most gravestones are covered in the text, almost so much that they look like an ornamental pattern.

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Later on, in the 17th century, these eulogies were simplified into symbolic characterizations, which give a metaphoric glimpse into the character of the person buried below. Some of these emblems also might signify the person’s occupations or what clan they might belong to. Two hands denote that they are beloved to the Aron Tribe of priests, a bear and a kettle refer to the Levi family, and a mouse is the symbol of the Masiel family.

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Oldest tombstone

The oldest tombstone in the cemetery is that of Avigdor Kara, buried in a tumbas in 1439. Other famous graves you can see when visiting are:

• The tomb of the district’s benefactor Mordechai Maisel died in 1601.
• The tomb of Rabbi Low and his wife Pearl died in 1609.
• Astronomer David Gans died in 1613, and the grave of doctor and physicist Josef del Medigo, passed in 1665.

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Nephele Hill

On the northern side of the Klausen Synagogue, we find one of the saddest areas of the cemetery, Nephele Hill. Nephele Hill is where children who died before one month are buried. Nephele is the Hebrew word for miscarriage since many of the children buried here died due t miscarriages. It’s impressive to see that something we so often cover up or hide in this modern world was given such reverence and care hundreds of years ago. Sometimes there is something to be learned from our past to change the future.

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Ceremonial Hall

An inscription above the entrance to the Ceremonial Hall reads, “the Holy society, performing merciful deeds.” Although now a reconstruction of the original, this building was the place of the Burial Brotherhood, who performed the ceremonial death rites on the dead of Prague’s Jewish Quarter. The design of the exterior was done by architect J. Gerstl in 1906-1908. It was produced in neo-Roman style, with details like heavy masonry, columns and detailed capitals on the windows, round arches and simplistic iron grilles. The hall was used until the 1920s as a mortuary, but today is a part of the Jewish museum. The morgue was initially located in the basement, and the first floor was where ritual purification of the dead (taharah) took place.

Interior of the ceremonial hall

The interior of the ceremonial hall has some of the most exquisite mosaic work. The geometric floral patterns seem almost too pretty for a mortuary and bloom across the first floor. Inside various display cases inside the ceremonial hall are items from the history of the Prague Burial Society. The most amazing of these pieces is a series of baroque paintings from the 1770s. Each of these 15 paintings details the Jewish community’s customs and ceremonies that occur after someone dies. There are also some fascinating relics from the graveyard safely stored inside. These are some of the oldest tombstones which can no longer be left outside due to their deterioration.

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Maiselova 41

Head across U Starého hřbitova street and turn north a few feet to Maiselova 41/21. Maiselova street is named after Mordecai Maisel, a name you must be sick of hearing by now, but the repetition only cements his great importance. Historically this street was nicknamed “gold street” due to the vast amounts of gold Maisel donated to the crown to aid his war against the Turks. This apartment complex was built in 1911 by Klenka and Weyr. The two silhouettes on the front window were meant to resemble Mordecai Maisel and his beautiful wife. In the centre between them is a star of David surrounded by, and you might be able to guess, piles of gold coins.

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Siroka Street

Siroka Street is another avenue to find some of the best views of Prague’s incredible 19th and 20th-century architecture. #9 on this street is an old apartment building built in 1908 with one of the most mythical doorways seen anywhere in the city. Further up the building are some gorgeous mosaic cameos with images of traditional Czech men and women.

#36 is the old Jewish General Hospital. #11 is a Gothic masterpiece by architect Josef Blecha, built-in 1905, called the House At Saint George. Its namesake is featured on the facade of the building, standing atop the slain corpse of the giant dragon.

Maisel Synagogue

Walking south down Maiselova street, set a few meters away from the road, behind a set of bright blue painted fences, is the Maisel Synagogue. Finally, we reach the synagogue named after the man who seemingly is responsible for almost the entirety of Prague’s Jewish Quarter. If you weren’t looking closely, you might not recognize the building as an old synagogue. The architectural style seems so similar to that of old neo-gothic palaces.

The first synagogue built here was made in 1590. But this building was severely damaged in 1689 in the fire which ran rampant throughout the Jewish ghetto. For a synagogue named after one of the richest men in Prague, it is ironic that after WWII, when the temple fell to ruins, there was no money to restore it. It wasn’t until the 19th century that a full restoration took place to restore the synagogue to its former glory.

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Legen of Mordechai Maisel

There is a charming legend about how Mordechai Maisel earned so much money over his lifetime. The legend goes that once Maisel was just a simple man who owned a small shop. One day, a man came by and left a large chest inside the shop and said he would return later to retrieve it. The man never returned, but Maisel, an honest man, did not open the chest. Years later, when Maisel saw his city on the verge of ruin and in dire need of financing, he opened his chest. Because Maisel hadn’t been greedy and opened it right away, the divine blessed him, and the chest was full of gold coins. Although the reality is that he was just an incredibly hard worker and a dedicated community member, the legend is still amusing.

Interior of the Maisel Synagogue

The synagogue’s interior contains opulent nine-branched gilded candelabras, which decorate the gallery’s arcades above. It also is home to one of the oldest synagogal curtains from the end of the 16th century. During WWII, this synagogue was gutted and used to store over 6,000 pieces of Jewish artwork from all over synagogues in Bohemia and Moravia. The pieces saved after the war were returned to the State Jewish Museum, but the Maisel synagogue kept a collection of silver used in Jewish rituals from Czech synagogues throughout history.

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Pinkas Synagogue

The small and unassuming Pinkas Synagogue is the best place to end this tour. It is perhaps the most sombre of all the synagogues. From the exterior, this place looks more like a family home than a temple, which is for a good reason. In 1492 this was home to a distinguished Jewish family, the Horowitz family. They were extremely religious and built a private oratory attached to their house.

In 1535, the oratory was replaced with a public synagogue that the family could share with their community. In the basement of the house, we can still find the 15th-century Mikvah. A Mikvah is a ritual bath used in Judaism to achieve ritual purity. Besides the Mikvah, several old wells and ancient cellars are the earliest archaeological discoveries of ancient Jewish settlements in Prague. Today, this synagogue is most notable for containing a moving memorial to the Czech victims of the Holocaust.

Interior of Pinkas Synagogue

The interior is very austere and feels like a museum of architectural styles since so many different ones are on display. On the ceiling, you can see the gothic reticulated vault system. On the walls, we can study Renaissance ornamentation. The bimah in the centre of the room is from the baroque era since the synagogue floor was below ground level and, over the years, was subject to multiple floods. The grille surrounding the bimah was decorated in rococo style and donated by successful businessman Joachim von Popper. The grill has the emblem of Prague’s Jewish Community, as seen in the Old-New synagogue’s red flag, embedded into the wrought iron.

One of the most surprising elements of the synagogue is the geometric art-nouveau stained glass found on the windows throughout. The delicate cool colours and abstract shapes lend to the subdued atmosphere while adding an artistic element.

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The Wall of Jewish Names

A portion of the walls inside the synagogue has been covered with 78,000 names of the Jewish members of the Czech Republic who were victims of the Holocaust. These names are arranged by the various individual communities where the victims came from. In these sections, they are listed from their birth to their death. Often you’ll still find family members making a pilgrimage here to pray for their fallen ancestors.

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Children’s Drawings

One of the most moving parts of the synagogue is on the first floor, where you can see an exhibition of pictures drawn by children from the Terezín ghetto between 1942 and 1944. Sadly, most of the children who authored these drawings were sent to Auschwitz, where they were killed. These drawing sessions were actually led by painter Friedl Dicker-Brandeis. Dicker-Brandeis provided drawing lessons to the children in the ghetto.

But instead of just following the drab curriculum provided by the Nazis, she encouraged the children’s artistic skills as a kind of therapy. It was a way of the procession of losing their homes and the harshness of life in the ghetto. She had the children draw their emotions and their memories. We are today left with such a compelling look into the eyes of a child during this tumultuous time. Dicker-Brandeis herself was sent to Auschwitz, where she was murdered. With a few moments warning before being put onto the trains, she hid all 4,500 of these drawings in a suitcase and stashed it away inside her house where the Nazis wouldn’t find it. Years later, it was uncovered by the Jewish Museum in Prague. They took it upon themselves to ensure the memories of these children lived on, even when they did not.

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King Solomon Restaurant

After this tour, you are, no doubt, feeling a bit hungry. And what better thing to eat than a modern, kosher meal. There are still a few remaining Kosher restaurants in the area, but the best has to be King Solomon. They have a wonderful philosophy about their cooking. They are passionate about following their ancestors’ traditions while incorporating fresh ingredients and new cooking methods. Their grilled fallow deer steak with mushroom sauce and potato pancake is my absolute favourite! The dishes are a bit pricey, but such is the price of tradition. Skip the wine, which I found to be the most over-priced, and you can enjoy the food without it!

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This brings us to the end of the tour. If you’re a history buff like me, hopefully, you’ve enjoyed all the details I’ve included in this tour to help you walk back in time and discover the trails of the amazing Jewish people of Prague. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about the tour!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Prague’s Jewish Quarter, Your Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Best Things to See and Do in Josefov [UPDATED 2023] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

While some people find this to be a bit like a living museum, that’s exactly what I liked. I always try to imagine what these ancient cities would have felt like in their day but here in Dresden you actually get a taste of what that might have been like – but with wifi. The city is both bursting with gorgeous architecture but also has its fair share of cute cafes, bars and restaurants ideal for instagrammers. Here are some of my favourite locations that photo savvy travellers must visit on their next trip to Dresden! There is a google map at the bottom of this post you can use to find each and every location mentioned on the list.

Table Of Contents

1. Old Masters Gallery
2. Coselpalais
3. Brühl’s Terrace
4. Münzgasse 
5. Zwinger
6. The Royal Palace
7. Procession of Princes
8. Royal Stables
9. Neumarkt
10. Pfunds Molkieri
11. Neustadt Street Art
12. Kunsthof Passage
13. Cinema Thalia
14. Yenidze
15. Stammhaus

Old Masters Gallery

The Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (or Old Masters Gallery) is honestly the best art gallery I ever had the pleasure of visiting. It doesn’t feel too big nor too small. It’s like a grand old home that someone has decorated with exquisite pieces of arts — a stellar collection that’s lovingly curated. While it may seem much smaller than the Louvre or the Prado, there are over 700 paintings on display, all ranging from the 15th to 18th century. Treasures from major Italian Renaissance artists, Dutch and Flemish masters and other works by German, French and Spanish painters combine to form this hidden gem in Dresden. Standing amongst these iconic images feels like standing inside a great storybook and makes for such an incredible photo.

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Coselpalais

Food and architecture fans will find common ground here at the Coselpalais. The old palace has been reconstructed in late Baroque style and now serves as a charming little cafe and restaurant in the old town. The original building was built in 1550 and looks like a buttercream yellow castle out of Beauty and the Beast. Grab a latte, and a fanciful teacake served on the iconic Meissen porcelain and enjoy the views all around you on the patio under the blue skies. If you’re looking to try a traditional German dessert, order up to the apple cake with streusel!

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Brühl’s Terrace

Brühl’s Terrace is known as the Balcony of Europe. It is an enormous platform that stretches along the shores of the Elbe River. Here you’ll see both tourists and locals alike, strolling down the promenade enjoying the fantastic views. The terrace was once built as a fort to protect the city from invaders, but in the 19th century, it was transformed into this lovely pedestrian walkway. Along this riverside path, you’ll see framed the iconic skyline of the city and gorgeous flowerbeds colouring the grey concrete. During the holidays this is a great place to come for pop-up markets, especially exciting during Christmas time!

Münzgasse 

Münzgasse is a street just across from the Elbe River which feels almost too curated to be real. The two blocks of apartments flanking the road frame the stunning Frauenkirche perfectly. Walking down the street feels like stepping into a painting. On either side of the pedestrian street are various touristy restaurants which are not worth your money but do provide the the backdrop for this stunning scene.

Zwinger

The Zwinger is to this day one of the most incredible baroque buildings in Germany. It was built for Augustus II the Strong, who had been inspired by King Louis XIV. He had returned from a visit to his new court of Versaille and was eager to create a similar elaborate palace for himself. But this was would be located in his hometown of Dresden.

The Zwinger was built in the late baroque style called ‘Rococo’. The Rococo style embraced curves and elaborate ornaments but amped-up the drama. Rococo added a sense of play to the designs. Rococo designers felt that architecture should have a sense of motion, and they used dramatic curves, which made the viewer feel as though the building was alive. The Rococo style loved to emphasize piety. Plants and vines are featured prominently, carved into so many parts of the Zwinger. Construction began in 1710 and it took over 18 years to be completed. Anywhere you look here there are gorgeous shots to be found. Since the Zwinger is so large it’s easy to find more private spaces, ideal for framing that perfect shot.

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Dresden, originally built around 1200. Additional wings were constructed over the years, creating an almost patchwork quilt of architecture styles from Renaissance to Baroque and Romanesque. These days, the royal family no longer resides inside. Instead, the building contains a museum complex where you can explore the treasury, the armory and even see collections of prints and drawings as well as old photographs of Dresden before the bombing. The exterior of the Palace is where the real visual treat lies. It’s fascinating to see this Palace so integrated with the rest of the city, instead of walled off like so many other royal residences around Europe.

Procession of Princes

Along Schloßstraße, you’ll find one of the greatest remnants of old Dresden, the Procession of Princes. This 101-meter long porcelain portrait depicts the entire history of Dresden through the men who built, controlled, governed and sparked new thoughts and ideas within it. It features Dukes, Electors, Kings and other leading figures from the arts and sciences. This is the world’s largest porcelain artwork. The mural was first installed in 1871 and took more than five years to complete. Shockingly enough this mural withstood the great Dresden bombing of WWII. It suffered minimal damage and was a beacon of hope to the people of Dresden after the war. Today its still one of the most striking images you can find in the city.

Royal Stables

Just down from the Procession of Princes is the Stallhof und Langer Gang or Royal Stables. These stables were used as the location for horse tournaments since the 15th century. Some of the most exciting jousting activities took place here and where the who’s who of Germany elite came to be entertained. Today, the stalls are the site of the Dresden Christmas Market. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the holiday season, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most magical sights in the world. There really is nothing like a Christmas market in Europe when the snow is falling and catches the twinkling fairy lights as it touches the ground. But throughout the rest of the year the architectural curves and the effect of the light in the arcade is out of this world!

Neumarkt

The Neumarkt is the cultural centre of the Dresden’s historic district. The original Neumarkt was designed in the German Baroque style. Baroque designers loved pastel colours, not just on their frescos; but everywhere they could put them. Today it feels like walking through a miniature buttercream village. Standing in the center of the square is the iconic Frauenkirche, which was completely destroyed during a bombing run in WWII. But after the bombs had fell, hundreds of volunteer collected the burn rumble from the original church and stored it away, waiting for the day it would be rebuilt. And it was, and used many piece of that original structure which so many people help preserve for future generations.

Pfunds Molkieri

Pfunds Molkieri, covered floor to ceiling in the most incredible tiles and Meissen porcelain, is the oldest dairy shop in East Germany. Built in 1879 this shop was the first place where German’s could buy high-quality, concentrated milk. Although the dairy was mostly destroyed in WWII, the family made sure to rebuild in the exact same fashion as the original. Now, visitors can come to see and taste the extraordinary place which is Pfunds Molkieri. Guests can try different kinds of milk from farms across Germany as well as cheese, wines and more!

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Neustadt Street Art

While most of the historical parts of Dresden were destroyed in WWII, the “new” town built across the river was spared from the destruction as it proved no real military threat to the attackers. This meant that despite being called “new town” the structures here are actually older than the reconstructions found in the “old town”. Neustadt or “new town” remains a bohemian stronghold in Dresden and even today is where you can find some of the coolest shops, bars and exciting nightlife. But if those things aren’t for you, just wandering the streets is a feast for the eyes. Neustadt has become a popular neighbourhood for local street artists who bring otherwise boring walls to life with colours, textures and even sculptural details. You can find some of the most lively street art found anywhere in Dresden right here.

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Kunsthof Passage

Inside the walls of Neustadt, you’ll find the famous Kunsthof Passage. These dreamlike courtyards come from the visionary mind of various Dresden artists who turned these empty spaces into an art experiment. There are four different themed courtyards to visit; Elements, Animals, Light, and Metamorphoses. Each one features strange and intriguing details which draw in your eye and ask your to question what you’re looking at. In the Courtyard of the Elements, you’ll find a piece inspired by the Rube Goldberg Machine which turns rainfall in a symphonic orchestra! Even without rain it’s a gorgeous work of art to admire.

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Cinema Thalia

Inside the inner walls of the Neustadt, you’ll find one of the oldest cinemas still standing in Germany. Built in 1889, Cinema Thalia once used to host people from all over Dresden, and at one time the cinema would extend into what is now the beer garden to hold over 700 people! After being destroyed in 1945, it lay dormant, untouched by the modern era until it was plucked from obscurity in 2004 and returned to live as a hipster mecca. The large theatre was transformed into a cafe and cinema where, and until 2008, people were still allowed to smoke, hence the name on the front “Cinema. Coffee and Cigarettes”. Today it’s still a gorgeous icon east German, retro design.

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Yenidze

To experience one of the most unique beer gardens in the city and catch a stunning view across Dresden, head over to Yenidze. From afar you might think that this building is an Ottoman mosque, but originally it was actually a tobacco factory. Built in 1907 by Hugo Zietz, the Yenidze tobacco company, was designed in “oriental” style to recall the “exotic origins of tobacco”. The chimney used to process smoke from the factory was incorporated into the architecture as a fake minaret. Today, the building is used as an office but the top floor is home to an incredible restaurant with rooftop views across the city and over to the mountains in the distance.

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Stammhaus

The most iconic picture from Germany must be of a beer hall, and the Stammhaus in the centre of Dresden is one of the best! This brewery dates all the way back to 1858! Inside the new three-story restaurant, beer gardens and bar are antiques collected by the brewing family from over the years. The food is as traditional as you can get and it all washes down deliciously with a glass of Feldschlößchen Pilsner or Zwickelbier. Sitting in the restaurant, you feel like you’re dining inside a piece of Dresden’s history! My favourite visual of the restaurant is the giant copper brewing lid which serves as a roof atop the bar!

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Dresden is such a wonderful place to explore and get away from the crowds which you’ll find in more popular cities across Germany like Berlin and Munich. It’s still that untapped gem which only those in the know are want to find. If you’re interested in explore more of Dresden, check out my guided walking tour which will take your across old town to discover the history and people who helped created this amazing city. Let me know if you’ve visited Dresden before and what your favourite photo spot was on your last trip to Florence of the North.

Happy Travels Adventurers!

The post The Most Instagrammable Places in Dresden, Germany first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Mirabell Gardens
   • Hedge Theatre
2. Zwergerlgarten
3. Salzach River
4. Mozartplatz
   • Royal Residence
5. Cafe Tomselli
6. Fisch-Krieg Fish Market
7. Balkan Grill
8. Getreidegasse
9. Mozart's Birthplace
10. Franziskanerkirche
11. St. Peter's Cemetery
12. Hohensalzburg Castle
13. History of the Castle
14. Augustiner-Bräu

Mirabell Gardens

The best place to start your walking tour is in the Mirabell Gardens. Before arriving, stop by any local cafe or bakery to grab a few snacks and a hot (or cold) cup of coffee to enjoy while inside. Here, you’ll be able to sit and enjoy your Austrian breakfast in one of the most elegantly designed royal gardens in Europe. The park gates open at 8 am, so we are sure not to arrive before then. Mirabell Gardens is a serene oasis that has long been the secret gateway for the Austrian aristocracy.

The palace that served as the garden backdrop was built in 1606 for Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau. He had the heavenly white mansion designed for the love of his life, Salome. The Prince ensured the gardens were as impressive as the interiors since Salome adored being outdoors. In 1721, after a fire destroyed many buildings, Prince-Archbishop Franz Anton von Harrach had it redesigned by the famous Baroque architect Lukas von Hildebrandt who integrated all the various structures that were spread out into one self-contained complex. This allowed the gardens to surround the palace and flow alongside it like a river so that no matter where you exited, you were always greeted with lush greenery and brightly coloured flowers.

Hedge Theatre

The Mirabell Gardens are truly a preserved treasure of a bygone age. The Hedge Theater, created between 1704 and 1718, is one of the oldest hedge theatres in the northern Alps and is the same hedge theatre used in the film The Sound of Music. The Von Trapp children can be seen running through it during the “Doe A Deer” musical number. 

Zwergerlgarten

Another ancient oddity still lingers within this garden is the Zwergerlgarten, or “dwarf garden.” This small alcove is located just up the stairs from the Pegasus statue. Most visitors pass right by it but make sure you make a point to explore. Within this petite corner is a collection of exquisite, yet grotesque, figures of dwarves modelled after actual people who lived in the palace in the 17th century. Back then, it was thought to be good luck to employ a dwarf. The Archbishops of Salzburg adored them so much that he even had their likeness cast into stone. Nowadays, we might look at these statues and feel like they are slightly offensive, but at the time, they were meant to be an honour and were revered by all those who passed by them.

Flowers in the Gardens

The original landscape designer went to great lengths to create a sumptuous structure for the garden beds, which could be seen from the palace and the top of the hillside Fortress. This way, all those around Salzburg could see the greatness that was Mirabell Palace Gardens. The gardens are always changing up their flower designs and colours for guests and locals alike, so there’s consistently something new to discover.

As you circle the perimeter, you’ll notice towering white statues acting as the garden’s guardians. Sculpted by Gerard van Opstal, a skilled artist of classical mythologies from Antwerp, these glorious scenes of lust, triumph and pain, while not as proficient as some pieces from Italy’s Renaissance masters, are nonetheless wonderfully powerful works of art.

Salzach River

As you finish your tour of the Gardens, pass through the Northern Exit, which will lead you towards the Salzach River. Walk southeast along the river’s edge, where you’ll find a pretty pedestrian walkway. This little trail is a great place to admire the cake-topper, pastel baroque houses which dot the riverside. Soon, you’ll reach the Mozartsteg bridge, a great place to stop and watch tourist boat putter by, much as the salt boats would have floated up and down this same river hundreds of years ago. Salzburg’s mines were rich with salt, a hot commodity as early as the 8th century. Salt is the reason the city became wealthy, and as such, gave the town its name. Salzburg means “Salt Castle.”

Mozartplatz

After you get off the bridge, head down to the Mozartplatz or Mozart Square. Mozart Square is named after Salzburg’s most famous resident, you guessed it, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The statue looming in the middle of the square, dedicated to the legendary composer, was unveiled on September 5, 1842, by sculptor Ludwig Schwanthaler. Although Mozart wasn’t alive to see it, his sons were present as the entire city came together to honour their father’s work. The buildings surrounding Mozartplatz are lovely examples of 16th and 18th-century architecture so take a minute to sit and admire the surroundings.

Residenceplatz

Residence Square is located nearby and comprises the New Residence of the Princes of the Salzburg, the Salzburg Cathedral, various aristocratic townhouses and a dozen famous bakeries and cafes. In the middle of the square stands the centrepiece, the enormous Italian Baroque fountain of Tommaso di Garone. It is one of the most magnificent baroque fonts in Europe. Four horses burst out of a rocky mound, rearing up their legs as water shoots from their mouths. Triton stands upon the rocks, holding up a scalloped upper basin that three dolphins balance atop.

Royal Residence

While exploring Residence Square check out the Royal Residence courtyard. Although you can also explore the interior, this might be better left for a more extended stay. From the exterior, you can still see where the Royals would have lived during their time in Salzburg and get a glimpse of their lifestyle in Austria.

Salzburg Cathedral

Next, it’s over the famous Dom zu Salzburg or Salzburg Cathedral for some spiritual awakening and awe-inspiring architecture. The first Christian church was built in here Salzburg in 774. The original foundations of that church remain here today, underneath the new DOM. When that first church was built, it was one of the largest sacred buildings in Europe. But in 842, lightning struck it and burned it to the ground. 

History of the Cathedral

In 1181 a late Romanesque structure was restored, but it was also burnt down in 1598. Some say the fire wasn’t an accident but was initiated by the then Prince-Archbishop, Wolf Dietrich, who wanted to build a new church in his preferred style. But his plans were thwarted, and Italian architect Santino Solari oversaw the current design. It was consecrated in 1628 by Archbishop Paris Count Lodron. The Salzburg Cathedral is one of Germany’s best examples of early Baroque architecture. Its imposing Untersberg marble facade is framed between two twin towers with bright green domes. Atop the towers are four statues; Peter and Paul hold a key and a sword, respectively and Salzburg’s two patron saints, Rupert and Virgil, each clasp a salt vessel (the symbol of the city) and a model of the church. 

Exterior

The church’s exterior has a huge bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, which stands outside to greet visitors. She is flanked by various other expressive characters, and her loving embrace of her son warms your soul on even the coldest day.

Interior

Three doors allow you to enter the church, each one illustrating a theme; Faith, Hope and Love. The interior of the church is both minimal and elaborate at the same time. The church’s structure is painted a soothing and peaceful shade of white. Despite the simplistic white paint, ornate stucco designs in baroque shapes are embedded onto the walls, columns, archways and ceiling. We have brightly painted frescos along the roof, their colours sharply contrasted against the white of the rest of the Cathedral.

Near the entrance is a Romanesque font where Mozart was baptized. The font is made entirely of bronze and decorated with reliefs of various biblical saints. Be sure to take a moment to study the magnificent organ. Many of Mozart’s compositions were written for this very instrument. They were initially meant to be played in this very place.

Alter Markt

Now, I bet you’re getting slightly hungry after all this walking. So it’s time to start searching for something to eat. Walk over to the Alter Markt, where you have various options. During the middle ages, farmers from all over the country would come here to sell their goods. The St. Florian Fountain in the middle of the square was built in 1488, with the Salzburg’s coat of arms emblazed. The buildings surrounding the marketplace date back to the middle ages, designed in the old burgher’s style of architecture.

Cafe Tomselli

There are many different cafes to grab a bite at, but if you have a few extra euros to spend and want an exceptional experience try Café Tomaselli. This cafe is over a hundred years old, and Mozart used to come in here to drink, of all things, almond milk. The cafe is full of history and is decorated with old paintings curated by their various owners. The stories this place could tell if only the walls could talk. But this atmosphere comes with a price. If you still want a chance to visit but are short on cash, simply order a coffee and split a simple pastry with a friend.

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Fisch-Krieg Fish Market

If you decide that the Alter Market is too rich for your blood, head to Fisch-Krieg Fish Market. This adorable restaurant along the water is half fish market, half restaurant. All you need to do is pick which variety of fish you’d like, choose how you want it cooked (grilled or fried), and they will serve it up to you alongside one of their many traditional Austrian salads. All their dishes are very reasonably priced, and they have a great taste of traditional Salzburg cuisine. The shop’s interior, with its unique plastic tree growing right up through the floor, is one of those unforgettable touches that will stay in your memory forever. I cannot recommend this place more!

Balkan Grill

Lastly, if you’re looking for something really, really inexpensive that’s just as delicious as it is authentically Austrian, you have to check out the Balkan Grill. Balkan Grill is located at 33 Getreidegasse, one of the city’s most upscale neighbourhoods. They have been serving sausages in this tiny booth for over 50 years, and there is always a line-up. They only have one thing on the menu: a grilled pork sausage covered in your choice of; onions, fresh parsley, and a secret blend of spices served on a white bun with some curry mustard and ketchup. There is something about the fresh parsley that really brightens up the greasy sausage.

Getreidegasse

Once you have sated your hunger, take a few moments to explore Getreidegasse. Getreidegasse, or “grain lane,” is Salzburg’s most prestigious shopping street. It’s most recognizable for its tall and narrow houses, which seem to lean over the sidewalk below.

Ornately designed wrought iron signs hang off the sides of the buildings. These signs were wordless symbols in the middle ages to help citizens who couldn’t read find bakeries, cobblers or butcher shops. The signs have been updated with logos featuring iconic fashion brands, but they have kept up their antique look.

Mozart’s Birthplace

One building worth a second look at is #9 Getreidegasse. This is Mozart’s “Geburtshaus,” or Birthplace. Its golden yellow exterior makes it unmissable as you walk along the street. The Mozart Family lived on the third floor of the “Hagenauer House” from 1747 to 1773. Mozart spent his childhood in Salzburg, developing his incredible musical talent. Inside is a small museum which still holds many objects from the Mozart household and recreations of what the home would have looked like in the 18th century.

Franziskanerkirche

Once you’re finished exploring Getreidegasse, head north, down Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse to see the Franciscan Church. The FranciscOnce you’re exploring Getreidegasse, head north, down Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse to see the Franciscan Church. The Franciscan Church, or Franziskanerkirche, is the architectural opposite of the Salzburg DOM. Whereas the DOM is bright and white, the Franziskanerkirche is dark and GOTHIC! I love both for different reasons, and both are worth checking out.an Church or Franziskanerkirche is the architectural opposite of the Salzburg DOM. Whereas the DOM is bright and white, the Franziskanerkirche is dark and GOTHIC! I love both for different reasons, and both are worth checking out. 

History of the Franciscan Church

The first church built on these grounds was erected in the 8th century. It was frequently ravaged by fires and rebuilt time after time. The Salzburg middle class of the 15th century was reasonably well off. When their church needed renovation, they gathered up the required funds themselves. They hired the famous architect Hans von Burghausen to design a newer and more magnificent church. His work was a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Throughout the church, you’ll find slender, dark marble columns that reach up to the sky and open into refined rib vaulting, like a pair of hands whose fingers open to the heavens.

St. Peter’s Cemetery

Continue onwards to St. Peter’s Cemetery. St. Peter’s Cemetery is the oldest in Salzburg. Looking at the gravestones, they don’t appear so ancient but take a look behind the headstones, along the rockface, to see where the real history lies. Carved into Mönchsberg are a set of caves which served as catacombs for the earliest settlers. The oldest surviving tombstones inside date back to 1288. If you decide to go inside, you can climb up the 48 steps to see the “Gertrauden Chapel,” which dates back to 1178.

Back on the ground, you can see several crypts flank the nearby church’s exterior. These elegant wrought-iron fences protect the crypts of some of Salzburg’s wealthiest families. These crypts also were the setting for one of the iconic scenes in The Sound of Music when the Von Trapp family was hiding from the Nazis during their daring escape.

Hohensalzburg Castle

To end your walking tour, head to the Mönchsberg funicular, which will take you all the way to the top of the hillside to the crowning glory of Salzburg, the Hohensalzburg Castle.

History of the Castle

The first castle built on this site was raised in 1077 and was little more than four wooden walls. It was made high up on the hills to serve as a lookout post to protect the city against Imperial troops from the Holy Roman Empire.

Over the years, towers were built, stone walls were added to fortify the castle, and the fortress grew in size. Inside the castle, the portrait gallery is the first room you’ll pass through. It’s filled with more than a dozen portraits of all the Prince whose legacy it was to grow the size and strength of this impressive Castle Fortress. Unlike many others across Europe, modernization has not touched this building. Salzburg was never subject to attack, so its historic castle was never destroyed or rebuilt. This treasure of the past is truly a unique experience to walk through.

Interior

Inside you’ll get to see some of the furnishings used by the royals who once lived within these walls. Opulent wallpaper, lush bedding and even the most ornate heaters you’ve ever seen. In addition to exploring the life of the royals, there are also various exhibits displaying the might of their army. Armour, weaponry and even medieval torture devices are displayed for viewers to discover.

After exploring the castle, take advantage of the vantage point atop the mountain and walk along the pedestrian path toward the perfect dinner destination. As day turns to dusk, you’ll have a wonderful view of the city’s lights as you make your way toward the Austinger Brau.

Augustiner-Bräu

The Augustiner-Bräu is an old beer hall frequented by locals and tourists alike. If you arrive on a colder night, don’t be surprised if you walk in and think it’s closed (that’s just because all the action is happening downstairs, as the beer garden is only open in the warmer months). Head down the stairs and turn the corner. Any silence you might have experienced upstairs will be broken by laughter and the occasional singing accompanied by the smell of cooking sausages and freshly poured beer. This place is indeed the ideal location to finish your day exploring Salzburg! If you’re lucky and the beer garden is open, you’ll enjoy food and drink beneath a canopy of ancient Austrian trees under the starry sky.

How to Order

But first, you’ll need to know how to serve yourself. Yes, that’s right. There are no waiters here. To get a beer, go to the register and pay for as many drinks as you’d like; they will give you one ticket, which you use to trade in for a stein and another for your beers. Once armed with your stein, hand the barman your drink ticket to fill er’ up! The trade for doing all this yourself? Cheap beer, which tastes great. Once you’re done drinking as much as possible, wash out your stein and place it on the rack for someone else to use.

The food available is a traditional Bavarian fair. Small vendor stalls are located in the basement. They have everything from appetizers to desserts. Perfect for whatever you’re craving! Once you’ve got your food and beer tray, find a table and make some new friends. We witnessed friendly Austrians singing happy birthday to a group of tourists to welcome them into the country.

No doubt this tour has worn you out, but after a few Austrian beers, all you’ll feel is that warm fuzziness from good friends and a beautiful day in a fantastic city.

The post The Best Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg, the city of the Sound of Music first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

How to Cruise along the Grand Canal?

Most of the houses which now line the Canal are named after the original families who first settled here and grew this great city. Taking a trip down the Canal is like taking a trip back in time. And while it is an essential thing to do while in Venice, it doesn’t mean spending a pretty penny, renting out a gondolier for an hour or taking a cheesy river cruise.

Since Venice is a city built on the water, there are no roads and the only way to get around is via water buses called the Vaporettos. A 1-day pass for the Vaporetto will cost you 25€, or a single 75-minute ticket is 9.5€. For the purposes of this tour, a single ticket would do you just fine if you plan on walking your way around the rest of Venice for the day. While they might not look as elegant as the gondolas, they take the very same route and pass by all the same iconic landmarks for a fraction of the cost. 

Table Of Contents

1. How to Cruise along the Grand Canal?
2. Ferrovia Vaporetto
3. Scalzi Bridge
4. San Geremia
5. Fondaco dei Turchi
6. San Stae
7. Ca' Pesaro
8. Traghetto
9. Ca D'oro
10. Palazzo Morosini Brandolin
11. Mercato di Rialto
12. Rialto Bridge
13. Palazzo Corner della Ca' Grande
14. Palazzo Barbarigo Venice
15. Ca' Foscari
16. Grassi Palace
17. Ca' Rezzonico
18. Palazzo Loredan dell'Ambasciatore
19. Ponte dell'Accademia
20. Palazzo Cavalli-Franchetti
21. Peggy Guggenheim
22. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
23. Santa Maria Maggiore

Ferrovia Vaporetto

Set out as early as you can manage. Venice is a busy, busy city and the earlier you start your day the more you’ll have the city to yourself. We’re staring our tour at the Northern most point of Venice, at the Ferrovia Scalzi Terminal, and traveling east along the Grand Canal.

Get a seat near the edge of the boat to get the full view of the wonderful scenery. Watching the buildings pass by as you cruise along the river is like being transported into another world of fantastical architecture and ancient designs. I’ve included a googlemap of all the landmarks at the bottom of this post so you can follow along as you go. Come with me now on a tour down the Grand Canal.

Scalzi Bridge

The Scalzi Bridge is the first of three bridges you’ll pass under on your tour of the Grand Canal. While there are dozens of bridges to be found throughout Venice, there are only three which cross the extremely wide Grand Canal. The Scalzi Bridge is thin and is one of the more modern designs along the river. The original bridge built here was called the “Austrian” bridge and was built of iron. The stone replacement is much higher and allows for larger boats to pass underneath.

San Geremia

As you continue along the canal you’ll pass the back end exterior of San Geremia Church. Its stunning white dome with slim silver cross atop is one of the landmarks of this little area of Venice. This church was built in 1753 and houses the remains of Saint Lucy. The layers of architectural styles and colours on this church make it look like a layered wedding cake.

So many houses and palaces along the canal don’t have special names or histories but each one has a definitive character. Venice has always been an influential place for artists. As such the use of colour throughout the city is always extremely present. It’s hard to find a single dull building in the entire place. Residents decorate their faces with brightly painted wooden shudders, fantastical balcony flower boxes and stunning wrought iron designs.

Fondaco dei Turchi

Below is the Fondaco dei Turchi, once the seat of Venice’s Turkish population. Originally built in the first half of the 13th century, it is a perfect example of Byzantine design. rich use of colour and intricate stone work was of the utmost importance in Byzantine design. In the 17th century the vast majority of the Turkish population turned this building into a one-house-ghetto that housed hundreds of people as well as served as a warehouse and market for Turkish traders. Today it is the home of the Natural History Museum of Venice, which features a beautiful collections of flora and fauna, fossils, and a small aquarium. A feature which many of these Venetian houses have is the open porticos along the river’s edge which allow boats to pull right up to the interior of the house. Like a Renaissance version of a garage.

San Stae

Continuing along the Northern portion of the canal we pass San Stae. San Stae was built in 11th century and was once a rather subdued and unassuming building. But in the 17th century it was renovated by the Swiss master Domenico Rossi. Its powerful and striking baroque statues which cover the facade are unique due to their active forms which jump and leap out of their marble prison and give great life to this unassuming and otherwise small church.

Ca’ Pesaro

Right next to San Stae is the Ca’ Pesaro. The Ca’ Pesaro was once the residence of Leonardo Pesaro, to whom the building is still named after. Ca’, you’ll hear this word frequently throughout Venice. Ca’ is short for ‘casa’, the word for house in Italian. This building is uniquely designed with repetitive and heavy use of pillars that adorned the entire building. Building started in 1659. The architect was inspired by the chiaroscuro style of painting being employed during the Renaissance. Chiaroscuro is the use of strong contrasts between light and dark.

Here the architect used that same dramatic effect with his arches and columns. Creating an unmissable effect to any passers-by. The Pesaro family has turned its residence into a wonderful museum dedicated to 19th and 20th century paintings and sculptures which you can view today. It is only of the most impressive collections in Venice and highly recommended if you’re here for a few days.

Traghetto

While floating along the river you’ll pass by various less opulent, black gondolas being operated by men in simple black and white striped shirts. These are called ‘Traghettos‘. Inside these gondolas are business men, local, residents and even some tourists. These are not the tourist gondolas which go for hundreds of euros an hour, these gondolas cost only €2 and will take you across the large stretches of the Grand Canal which don’t have a bridge large enough to cross over. Otherwise you’re stuck walking around which can take a significant amount of time. So if you’re in a rush or just too tired to go the long way around, these little gondolas are the ticket! Plus, if you’re looking to experience riding in a gondolas without paying a ton of money, this is how you can check that box off your bucket list.

Ca D’oro

The Ca D’oro is one of the most fantastical buildings on the canal. The pale, multicoloured marbles along the facade makes it looks like a softer water colour paiting floating on the river. Ca’ d’Oro means ‘House of Gold’ as the facade was once covered in a thin coating of gold leaf. The palace was originally built in 1428 for the Contarini family, who were basically the royal family of Venice in the 14th century. This palace features some of the best Gothic architecture in Venice.

In Venice, gothic architecture wasn’t as dark and severe as it might have been in England or even on the mainland. In Venice, Gothic architecutre was more floral and leaned towards the Baroque. Today the palace houses the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti. The Gallery is a collection of art from the Baron Giorgio Franchetti. He donated all the works he had accumulated over the year to this public gallery to be enjoyed by the public after his passing.

Palazzo Morosini Brandolin

The facades in Venetian architecture are one of the best ways to identify which period the building was made in. Byzantine houses featured thin, horseshoe shaped arches with simple motifs on the capitals. Gothic houses have intricate rib traceries on top of their arches (as can be seen in the Palazzo Morosini Brandolin below) along with quatrefoil designs. Renaissance houses are simpler with bold projecting roof cornices and wide arches. Finally the baroque houses have circular headstones, and cherubs carved into the windows along with a bold use of ornamentation.

Mercato di Rialto

The old Venetian Marketplace still stands today and even still serves as one of the major places where Venetian locals shops for their every day groceries. You can spot the market easily along the River, just look for bright red drapes hanging behind wide white arches. These protect the food from inside from the weather. The building was originally a Gothic construction but the newly renovated design was made in 1907, but still preserves much of the original architecture. If you are close enough, check out the carved capitals on the end of the arches, each one is carved in the shape of a sea or sea creature since the main source of the market’s income both now and when it was first built was the freshly caught seafood from the ocean.

Rialto Bridge

The Rialto bridge is the oldest bridge in Venice. It was built by Antonio da Ponte in 1591. Its repetitive and powerful porticos that line the top of the bridge was a point of contention amidst Venetian architects of the time but now the Rialto Bridge is one of the most iconic images of Venice and it is because of its unique and daring design. If you arrive early in the morning you might see the bridge in all it’s architectural glory but as the day draws one thousands of tourists pour onto the bridge and it is packed to the gills, making some of the details hard to make out. Another great reason to come as early in the morning as you can manage.

Palazzo Corner della Ca’ Grande

Since Venice was such a wealthy city for many many years, hundreds of merchants flooded the city. Many of these merchants were foreigners and in 1228 a building was constructed to house all the “German” merchants. Despite the name, the merchant house included Poles, Czechs, and Hungarians all who traded goods inside the walls of Venice. This building was like the New York Stock exchange of its time. The sound of angry, loud and boisterous traders often flooding into the Grand Canal.

Palazzo Barbarigo Venice

My favourite building on the Grand Canal is the Palazzo Barbarigo. It was originally built in the 16th century and features an intricate mosaic applied to the facade. Each of the pieces of glass used in the mosaics were from nearby Murano, famous for its glass craftsmen. Photos cannot do justice to the way the light hits the colourful patterns and reflect off the water. The mosiacs were applied in 1886 when Barbarigo, who owned one of the glass factories in Murano, bought the property. He used the exterior of his house like a form of publicity for his incredible glassworks. In the famed St. Mark’s square you can visit the grand Basilica whos entire interior features more incredible glass mosaics. Barbarigo was so inspired by St. Mark’s Cathedral and took this inspiration into his own home.

While travelling down the canal be sure to study the boat docks which many of the large palazzos have in front. Each one has their own colour scheme, making the entire canal a river of wooden rainbow bulrushes.

The closer you get to St. Mark’s square the more and more traditional gondolas you’ll see travelling down the river with tourists inside. These large black gondolas are incredibly detailed with sumptuous red velvet interiors.

Ca’ Foscari

One of the things that makes the Ca’ Foscari so unique is that it has four floors, an architectural innovation for houses which are built on top of the water. It is designed in the Late Gothic style with a myriad of ornate windows. The tan brickwork in contrast with the white marble creates a beautiful juxtaposition against the blue sky.

Grassi Palace

The Grassi Palace is a beautiful example of the modern and neoclassical coming together is become the future of Venetian architecture. In Venice, keeping the historical artistry of the canal is so important but if there is no progress and modernization the buildings will eventually sink beneath the waves. When the Fiat Motor Company bought the palace they did extensive restorations and renovations to bring the palace back to its once great glory while also ensuring it would last for another century or more.

Ca’ Rezzonico

The enormous Ca’ Rezzonico was built by two of Venice’s greatest architecture in 1660. Baldassare Longhena and Giorgio Massari created the landscape of the Grand Canal and influenced architects both in Italy and all over the world. My favourite part of the building are the wide, oval windows on the top floor which resemble portholes on a massive ship. The building currently houses a fantastical museum where you can tour over 40 different rooms which replicate life in Venice in the Rococo period. Lush furnishings and elaborately designed fabrics make you feel like a queen, even for a day. There is even a reconstructed pharmacy which you can explore.

Palazzo Loredan dell’Ambasciatore

The Palazzo Loredan is a gorgeous example of Gothic architecture. The facade is decorated with ogee arches and quatrefoil windows. The Palazzo was built in the 15th century and was the birthplace of two of the Doges of Venice. A doge is much like a European Duke oversaw much of the functions of Venetian society. The Palazzo Loredan became a hot spot for Venetian aristocrats and Mozart even entertained here.

Ponte dell’Accademia

The Ponte dell’Accademia is the gateway into what I believe is the most scenic part of the canal. The first bridge which crossed this span of the waters was built as early as 1488 but the current wooden bridge design was built in 1933. While most bridges around this time were being built in the more resilient material of stone, designer Eugenio Miozzi insisted on using wood to preserve the more natural look which wood exumes.

Palazzo Cavalli-Franchetti

As you pass under the great Ponte dell’Accademia, you see one of the most iconic views of Venice. On the left side of the Canal is the Palazzo Cavalli-Franchetti. The building is painting sunflower yellow and it absolutely glimmers against the blue sky and teal waters. The palace was built in 1565 and is one of the most incredible examples of Venetian Gothic architecture. Today the building houses various exhibitions and congresses.

Peggy Guggenheim

Coming around the bend you approach the bright accented Peggy Guggenheim Museum. Although this building now contains Venice’s seminal modern art museum, it was once the home of famed art collector Peggy Guggenheim. Peggy adored Venice and curated the art in her home not to please the rich and uppity art crowd, but to please herself and her family. The collection feels so personal while also containing some incredible pieces from famed artists of the 20th century.

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

As we approach the great St. Mark’s Square we pass the bright white shining gem of the end of the Canal, Santa Maria della Salute. The grand double domed and octagonal design makes it stand out from the other churches along the canal. The church was built in memory of all those who died during the great plague of 1630.

The church was designed in the baroque style by Baldassare Longhena. Since the church was built in response to the plague, much of the art references Death. The contrast between the darker subject matter and the bright white stone and marmorino brick is a stunning juxtaposition. The facade is decorated with marble statues of the Virgin Mary along with figures of Saint George, Saint Theodore, the Evangelists, the Prophets, Judith with the head of Holofernes.

Santa Maria Maggiore

As your Vaporetto turns towards St. Mark Square you get a glimpse of the island church, Santa Maria Maggiore which stands opposite the great square. San Giorgio Maggiore was designed by Andrea Palladio in 1566 in classical renaissance style. The white marble facade gleams against the blue waters. The red brick buildings surrounding it, along with the bell tower, mirror the campanile in St. Marks Square. From the top of the tower, there is one of the most stunning views of the city.

Our final destination is St. Mark’s Square, the drawing room of all Europe. Approaching it from the waters you get an incredible view. I was on pins and needles as the boat pulled into the docks and we were let out to explore this historic square. You feel like one of those first European travellers who visited Venice in the Renaissance to experience all the wondrous art and culture which Venice was so famous for and still is to this very day. While there is SO MUCH to explore on land, taking this journey down the canal is the perfect introduction this city built on top of the water and the magnificent architecture which transformed the city into a dreamland unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

The post Sail Through Venice’s Stunning Scenery: A Complete Self-Guided Tour of the Grand Canal 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.

Salzburg is not only a historical and picturesque baroque utopia but also the setting for the classic film The Sound of Music. Any place deemed charming enough to be the backdrop for such an extraordinary film is undoubtedly worth your time. Seeing the actual locations where this quintessential movie was made is a treat for cinema lovers and music aficionados. 

The best way to spend 24 hours in Salzburg is to get here early in the morning, hopefully by overnight train from your last destination. This way, you’ll save one night’s accommodation and splurge a bit the next day. Overnight trains in Europe are excellent and are an experience everyone should have once in their life. 

Table Of Contents

1. Map of Walking Tour
2. Salzburg Hauptbahnhof
3. Mirabell Gardens
4. Salzach River
5. Mozartplatz
6. Residenceplatz
7. Royal Residence
8. Salzburg Cathedral
9. Alter Markt
10. Fisch-Krieg Fish Market
11. Balkan Grill
12. Getreidegasse
13. Mozart's Birthplace
14. Franziskanerkirche
15. St. Peter's Abbey & Cemetery
16. Hohensalzburg Castle
17. Augustiner-Bräu

Map of Walking Tour

Salzburg Hauptbahnhof

After stepping off the train, your first stop should be at a local cafe. This doesn’t have to be anywhere fancy or famous. Train stations in Europe have marvellous cafes open as early as the trains start arriving, where you can sample all of Austria’s delicacies. Often, when merely transferring trains in a country I might not have visited, I will spend time waiting for my connection and sampling local treats. I’ve had legendary Belgian waffles in Belgium without stepping outside the station. Salzburg is most notable for its “Nockerln,” a cream-and-butter fluffy souffle served with a fruit sauce. So if you want to start your day off with a particularly Salzburgian flare, see if you can find one of these.

Mirabell Gardens

After grabbing a few pastries and coffee to get you started, head down to Mirabell Gardens. Here, you’ll be able to sit and enjoy your Austrian breakfast in one of the most elegantly designed royal gardens in Europe. The park gates open at 8 am, so we are sure not to arrive before then. Mirabell Gardens is a serene oasis that has long been the secret gateway for the Austrian aristocracy.

History of Mirabell Palace

The palace that served as the garden backdrop was built in 1606 for Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau. He had the heavenly white mansion designed for the love of his life, Salome. The Prince ensured the gardens were as impressive as the interiors since Salome adored being outdoors. In 1721, after a fire destroyed many buildings, Prince-Archbishop Franz Anton von Harrach had it redesigned by the famous Baroque architect Lukas von Hildebrandt who integrated all the various structures that were spread out into one self-contained complex. This allowed the gardens to surround the palace and flow alongside it like a river so that no matter where you exited, you were always greeted with lush greenery and brightly coloured flowers.

Hedge Theater

The Mirabell Gardens are truly a preserved treasure of a bygone age. The Hedge Theater, created between 1704 and 1718, is one of the oldest hedge theatres in the northern Alps and is the same hedge theatre used in the film The Sound of Music. The Von Trapp children can be seen running through it during the “Doe A Deer” musical number. 

Zwergerlgarten

Another ancient oddity still lingers within this garden is the Zwergerlgarten, or “dwarf garden.” This small alcove is located just up the stairs from the Pegasus statue. Most visitors pass right by it but make sure you make a point to explore. Within this petite corner is a collection of exquisite, yet grotesque, figures of dwarves modelled after actual people who lived in the palace in the 17th century. Back then, it was thought to be good luck to employ a dwarf. The Archbishops of Salzburg adored them so much that he even had their likeness cast into stone. Nowadays, we might look at these statues and feel like they are slightly offensive, but at the time, they were meant to be an honour and were revered by all those who passed by them.

Design of Mirbaell Gardens

The original landscape designer went to great lengths to create a sumptuous structure for the garden beds, which could be seen from the palace and the top of the hillside Fortress. This way, all those around Salzburg could see the greatness that was Mirabell Palace Gardens. The gardens are always changing up their flower designs and colours for guests and locals alike, so there’s consistently something new to discover.

As you circle the perimeter, you’ll notice towering white statues acting as the garden’s guardians. Sculpted by Gerard van Opstal, a skilled artist of classical mythologies from Antwerp, these glorious scenes of lust, triumph and pain, while not as proficient as some pieces from Italy’s Renaissance masters, are nonetheless wonderfully powerful works of art.

Salzach River

As you finish your tour of the Gardens, pass through the Northern Exit, which will lead you towards the Salzach River. Walk southeast along the river’s edge, where you’ll find a pretty pedestrian walkway. This little trail is a great place to admire the cake-topper, pastel baroque houses which dot the riverside. Soon, you’ll reach the Mozartsteg bridge, a great place to stop and watch tourist boat putter by, much as the salt boats would have floated up and down this same river hundreds of years ago. Salzburg’s mines were rich with salt, a hot commodity as early as the 8th century. Salt is the reason the city became wealthy and, as such, gave the town its name. Salzburg means “Salt Castle.”

Mozartplatz

After you get off the bridge, head down to the Mozartplatz or Mozart Square. Mozart Square is named after Salzburg’s most famous resident, you guessed it, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The statue looming in the middle of the square, dedicated to the legendary composer, was unveiled on September 5, 1842, by sculptor Ludwig Schwanthaler. Although Mozart wasn’t alive to see it, his sons were present as the entire city came together to honour their father’s work. The buildings surrounding Mozartplatz are lovely examples of 16th and 18th-century architecture so take a minute to sit and admire the surroundings.

Residenceplatz

Residence Square is located nearby and comprises the New Residence of the Princes of the Salzburg, the Salzburg Cathedral, various aristocratic townhouses and a dozen famous bakeries and cafes. In the middle of the square stands the centrepiece, the enormous Italian Baroque fountain of Tommaso di Garone. It is one of the most magnificent baroque fonts in Europe. Four horses burst out of a rocky mound, rearing up their legs as water shoots from their mouths. Triton stands upon the rocks, holding up a scalloped upper basin that three dolphins balance atop.

Royal Residence

While exploring Residence Square, check out the Royal Residence courtyard. Although you can also explore the interior, this might be better left for a more extended stay. From the exterior, you can still see where the Royals would have lived during their time in Salzburg and get a glimpse of their lifestyle in Austria.

Salzburg Cathedral

Next, it’s over the famous Dom zu Salzburg or Salzburg Cathedral for some spiritual awakening and awe-inspiring architecture. The first Christian church was built in here Salzburg in 774. The original foundations of that church remain here today, underneath the new DOM. When that first church was built, it was one of the largest sacred buildings in Europe. But in 842, lightning struck it and burned it to the ground.

History of the Dom Cathedral

In 1181 a late Romanesque structure was restored, but it was also burnt down in 1598. Some say the fire wasn’t an accident but was initiated by the then Prince-Archbishop, Wolf Dietrich, who wanted to build a new church in his preferred style. But his plans were thwarted, and Italian architect Santino Solari oversaw the current design. It was consecrated in 1628 by Archbishop Paris Count Lodron. The Salzburg Cathedral is one of Germany’s best examples of early Baroque architecture. Its imposing Untersberg marble facade is framed between two twin towers with bright green domes. Atop the towers are four statues; Peter and Paul hold a key and a sword, respectively and Salzburg’s two patron saints, Rupert and Virgil, each clasp a salt vessel (the symbol of the city) and a model of the church.

The church’s exterior has a huge bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, which stands outside to greet visitors. She is flanked by various other expressive characters, and her loving embrace of her son warms your soul on even the coldest day.

Interior of the Dom Cathedral

Three doors allow you to enter the church, each one illustrating a theme; Faith, Hope and Love. The interior of the church is both minimal and elaborate at the same time. The church’s structure is painted a soothing and peaceful shade of white. Despite the simplistic white paint, ornate stucco designs in baroque shapes are embedded onto the walls, columns, archways and ceiling. We have brightly painted frescos along the roof, their colours sharply contrasted against the white of the rest of the Cathedral.

Near the entrance is a Romanesque font where Mozart was baptized. The font is made entirely of bronze and decorated with reliefs of various biblical saints. Be sure to take a moment to study the magnificent organ. Many of Mozart’s compositions were written for this very instrument. They were initially meant to be played in this very place.

Alter Markt

Now, I bet you’re getting slightly hungry after all this walking. So it’s time to start searching for something to eat. Walk over to the Alter Markt, where you have various options. During the middle ages, farmers from all over the country would come here to sell their goods. The St. Florian Fountain in the middle of the square was built in 1488, with the Salzburg’s coat of arms emblazed. The buildings surrounding the marketplace date back to the middle ages, designed in the old burgher’s style of architecture.

Café Tomaselli

There are many different cafes to grab a bite at, but if you have a few extra euros to spend and want an exceptional experience try Café Tomaselli. This cafe is over a hundred years old, and Mozart used to come in here to drink, of all things, almond milk. The cafe is full of history and is decorated with old paintings curated by their various owners. The stories this place could tell if only the walls could talk. But this atmosphere comes with a price. If you still want a chance to visit but are short on cash, simply order a coffee and split a simple pastry with a friend.

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Fisch-Krieg Fish Market

If you decide that the Alter Market is too rich for your blood, head to Fisch-Krieg Fish Market. This adorable restaurant along the water is half fish market, half restaurant. All you need to do is pick which variety of fish you’d like, choose how you want it cooked (grilled or fried), and they will serve it up to you alongside one of their many traditional Austrian salads. All their dishes are very reasonably priced, and they have a great taste of traditional Salzburg cuisine. The shop’s interior, with its unique plastic tree growing right up through the floor, is one of those unforgettable touches that will stay in your memory forever. I cannot recommend this place more!

Balkan Grill

Lastly, if you’re looking for something really, really inexpensive that’s just as delicious as it is authentically Austrian, you have to check out the Balkan Grill. Balkan Grill is located at 33 Getreidegasse, one of the city’s most upscale neighbourhoods. They have been serving sausages in this tiny booth for over 50 years, and there is always a line-up. They only have one thing on the menu: a grilled pork sausage covered in your choice of; onions, fresh parsley, and a secret blend of spices served on a white bun with some curry mustard and ketchup. There is something about the fresh parsley that really brightens up the greasy sausage.

Getreidegasse

Once you have sated your hunger, take a few moments to explore Getreidegasse. Getreidegasse, or “grain lane,” is Salzburg’s most prestigious shopping street. It’s most recognizable for its tall and narrow houses, which seem to lean over the sidewalk below.

Ornately designed wrought iron signs hang off the sides of the buildings. These signs were wordless symbols in the middle ages to help citizens who couldn’t read find bakeries, cobblers or butcher shops. The signs have been updated with logos featuring iconic fashion brands, but they have kept up their antique look.

Mozart’s Birthplace

One building worth a second look at is #9 Getreidegasse. This is Mozart’s “Geburtshaus,” or Birthplace. Its golden yellow exterior makes it unmissable as you walk along the street. The Mozart Family lived on the third floor of the “Hagenauer House” from 1747 to 1773. Mozart spent his childhood in Salzburg, developing his incredible musical talent. Inside is a small museum which still holds many objects from the Mozart household and recreations of what the home would have looked like in the 18th century.

Franziskanerkirche

Once you’re exploring Getreidegasse, head north, down Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse, to see the Franciscan Church. The Franciscan Church, or Franziskanerkirche, is the architectural opposite of the Salzburg DOM. Whereas the DOM is bright and white, the Franziskanerkirche is dark and GOTHIC! I love both for different reasons, and both are worth checking out.

The first church built on these grounds was erected in the 8th century. It was frequently ravaged by fires and rebuilt time after time. The Salzburg middle class of the 15th century was reasonably well off. When their church needed renovation, they gathered up the required funds themselves. They hired the famous architect Hans von Burghausen to design a newer and more magnificent church. His work was a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Throughout the church, you’ll find slender, dark marble columns that reach up to the sky and open into refined rib vaulting, like a pair of hands whose fingers open to the heavens.

St. Peter’s Abbey & Cemetery

Continue onwards to St. Peter’s Cemetery. St. Peter’s Cemetery is the oldest in Salzburg. Looking at the gravestones, they don’t appear so ancient but take a look behind the headstones, along the rockface, to see where the real history lies. Carved into Mönchsberg are a set of caves which served as catacombs for the earliest settlers. The oldest surviving tombstones inside date back to 1288. If you decide to go inside, you can climb up the 48 steps to see the “Gertrauden Chapel,” which dates back to 1178.

Back on the ground, you can see several crypts flank the nearby church’s exterior. These elegant wrought-iron fences protect the crypts of some of Salzburg’s wealthiest families. These crypts also were the setting for one of the iconic scenes in The Sound of Music when the Von Trapp family was hiding from the Nazis during their daring escape.

Hohensalzburg Castle

To end your walking tour, head to the Mönchsberg funicular, which will take you all the way to the top of the hillside to the crowning glory of Salzburg, the Hohensalzburg Castle.

The first castle built on this site was raised in 1077 and was little more than four wooden walls. It was made high up on the hills to serve as a lookout post to protect the city against Imperial troops from the Holy Roman Empire.

Interior of the Palace

Over the years, towers were built, stone walls were added to fortify the castle, and the fortress grew in size. Inside the castle, the portrait gallery is the first room you’ll pass through. It’s filled with more than a dozen portraits of all the Prince whose legacy it was to grow the size and strength of this impressive Castle Fortress. Unlike many others across Europe, modernization has not touched this building. Salzburg was never subject to attack, so its historic castle was never destroyed or rebuilt. This treasure of the past is truly a unique experience to walk through.

Inside you’ll get to see some of the furnishings used by the royals who once lived within these walls. Opulent wallpaper, lush bedding and even the most ornate heaters you’ve ever seen. In addition to exploring the life of the royals, there are also various exhibits displaying the might of their army. Armour, weaponry and even medieval torture devices are displayed for viewers to discover.

Salzach at Dusk

After exploring the castle, take advantage of the vantage point atop the mountain and walk along the pedestrian path toward the perfect dinner destination. As day turns to dusk, you’ll have a wonderful view of the city’s lights as you make your way toward the Austinger Brau.

Augustiner-Bräu

The Augustiner-Bräu is an old beer hall frequented by locals and tourists alike. If you arrive on a colder night, don’t be surprised if you walk in and think it’s closed (that’s just because all the action is happening downstairs, as the beer garden is only open in the warmer months). Head down the stairs and turn the corner. Any silence you might have experienced upstairs will be broken by laughter and the occasional singing accompanied by the smell of cooking sausages and freshly poured beer. This place is indeed the ideal location to finish your day exploring Salzburg! If you’re lucky and the beer garden is open, you’ll enjoy food and drink beneath a canopy of ancient Austrian trees under the starry sky.

How to Order at Austrian Beer Halls

But first, you’ll need to know how to serve yourself. Yes, that’s right. There are no waiters here. To get a beer, go to the register and pay for as many drinks as you’d like; they will give you one ticket, which you use to trade in for a stein and another for your beers. Once armed with your stein, hand the barman your drink ticket to fill er’ up! The trade for doing all this yourself? Cheap beer, which tastes great. Once you’re done drinking as much as possible, wash out your stein and place it on the rack for someone else to use.

The food available is a traditional Bavarian fair. Small vendor stalls are located in the basement. They have everything from appetizers to desserts. Perfect for whatever you’re craving! Once you’ve got your food and beer tray, find a table and make some new friends. We witnessed friendly Austrians singing happy birthday to a group of tourists to welcome them into the country.

No doubt this tour has worn you out, but after a few Austrian beers, all you’ll feel is that warm fuzziness that comes from good friends and a beautiful day in a fantastic city. Salzburg is a city that truly has something for everyone, from its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage to its delicious cuisine and lively atmosphere. Whether you have just 24 hours or a little longer, be sure to take advantage of all this beautiful city has to offer.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Ultimate 24-Hours in Salzburg, Austria first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Map of the Walking Tour
2. Můstek Metro Stop
3. Jungmann Square
4. Church of Our Lady of the Snows
5. Lucerna
6. Wenceslas Square
7. The Karolinum
8. Powder Tower
9. Municipal House
10. The Basilica of St. James
11. Old Town Square
12. Church of Our Lady
13. Astronomical Clock
14. Lunch Time
15. The Jewish Quarter
16. The Spanish Synagogue
17. Rudolfinum Concert Hall
18. Charles Bridge
19. Malá Strana
20. Prague Castle
21. St. Nicholas Church
22. Lennon Wall
23. Kampa Island

Map of the Walking Tour

Můstek Metro Stop

We start our tour at the Můstek metro stop. This location marks the old border between the old town and new city. Můstek in Czech means Bridge. The reasons it is so named is because, upon excavation of this area, they found the remains of an old bridge, a moat and a steep wall. On the wall leading into the church courtyard, you can still see old carvings left on the remnants of the medieval wall.

In the centre of the square, you’ll see a beautiful lamppost shaped in cubist zigzags. This cubist architecture and decorative design can be found all over Prague and was a uniquely Czech form of art. Although it was only in vogue for a brief time, it leaves a powerful and lasting impression on those who view it.

Jungmann Square

Walking down Jungmannova street from Mustek station, you come to Jungmann Square. Across from the square is Adria Palace, now a large shopping plaza and business centre, the palace is one of the most important architectural monuments in the city. Built in 1923 by architect Josef Zasche it represents the uniquely Czech form of architecture, Rondocubism.

Rondocubism is famous for geometric edges, cubes and pyramids complimented by Slavic icons of design like crescents and circles. The building is also decorated with sculptures by Josef Malínský. The sculptures peek out from under the canopied doorways and flank either side of the beautiful windows that surround and the facade.

In the centre of the Josef Jungmann Square is a statue of the man himself. Josef Jungmann was a critical figure to the Czech people as he was a talented writer who revolutionised the Czech language. Initially, the Czech language was seen as simple and only for the peasants, but Josef, with his incredible writing, took the language from peasant to poets.

Church of Our Lady of the Snows

On the opposite side of the Square, is the Church of Our Lady of the Snows. Emperor Charles IV originally founded the church in 1347. In 1603 the church was donated by Emperor Rudolf II to the Franciscan monastery and therein became a Franciscan church.

Although the church itself is something to behold, the Franciscan Gardens, behind the church are where the real life of the Czech people lies. The Franscians believed that God could be found in nature and as such, their gardens were a vital part of their worship. The gardens are open all year round and unlike the stuffy and imposing church, it is full of everyday people, laughing in the playground, making conversation on the benches and relaxing among the manicured trees.

A French Baroque garden was designed for the church, along with a pavilion, walled fence and herb garden which the members of the clergy would tend to. There are rows and rows of roses and a sculptural fountain in the centre of the garden. Behind the busy city, this place feels like an oasis and is a hidden gem that many don’t even know is there.

Lucerna

After strolling through the gardens, head through the Lucerna Arcade to access Wenceslas Square. But don’t rush the journey! These arcades are some of the most beautiful art-nouveau arcades from Prague’s history. Inside these covered throughways are shops, cafes and hidden treasures.

The arcade is located between Štěpánská and Vodičkova street. Inside the arcade in addition to shops and cafes, you’ll even find a cinema! They play both Czech and English films and if you’re lucky you will be able to see your movie inside the original art-nouveau theatre. The seats aren’t the most comfortable, but the atmosphere is everything.

David Černý’s sculpture Kun 

In front of the theatre hangs, and you can’t miss it, artist David Černý’s sculpture Kun (which means Horse in Czech). The piece was created in 1999 and is the counterpart to the equestrian statue of St. Wenceslas square. The artist never made clear the meaning of the sculpture but it is thought to be a reference to the president at the time and the fact he hung out to dry the Czech people.

Novák Arcade

Beside the Lucerna Arcade, you’ll find the Novák Arcade. This arcade is another example of incredible art-nouveau design complete with a sparkling mosaic of Czech daily life on the interior.

Wenceslas Square

As you exit the arcade, you come up upon Wenceslas Square. Wenceslas Square was at one point in medieval times, the Horse Market, where farmers would come to sell their horses to the King’s Guard and local merchants. It was officially named Wenceslas square in 1848. Saint Wenceslas is the patron saint of Bohemia and as such, is an important figure for the Czech people. It is for this reason that this square is such an important place for the Czech people to meet and political rallies have been held. At the south-east corner of the plaza is the neoclassical Czech National Museum and on the other side is the border to New Town and the Old Town.

This square has been the site of many important events, some good and some a stain to the history of this city. The Nazi’s used this square for one of their many demonstrations and in 1969, a student, Jan Palach, set himself on fire to protest of the invasion of the Soviet Union in Prague. His actions set off national revolution, and he is memorialized on the square today. When the Czech hockey team defeated the USSR at the World Championship, 1500,000 people met here to celebrate their win as the underdog. And, most importantly, in 1989, the Velvet Revolution was started here with hundreds of Czechs rising against their government forming the free state of the Czech Republic as it stands today.

Prague Architecture

Surrounding the square are some of the most incredible buildings in Prague, representing all different kinds of architectural styles. You’ll see neo-gothic, neo-renaissance and neo-baroque. There’s also an abundance of art nouveau architecture with its sensual curves and bright colours. Then there is the structured and grey lines of functionalism. In the mid-20th century, the Soviet rule was form follows function and not the other way around. Look over at the Hotel Jalta for an example of this rigid style of design.

Rytířská street

After continuing down Wenceslas Square, turn up Rytířská street. As you walk up the street, turn onto Železná and you’ll see three iconic buildings facing each other. The Estates Theatre, the Church of St Havel and the Karolinum.

The Estates Theatre was built in the 18th century by designer Anton Haffenecker. The building was designed in the neoclassical style and is still today preserved in near original state. Above the portal to the theatres, there is a motto inscribed above the door that says “Patriae et Musis” which translates into, “To the Native Land and the Muses”. A very fitting phrase to keep in your mind as you enter through the doors to be transported by the productions that lie within. The building remains the only theatre left standing where Mozart performed. In 1791, Mozart’s La Clemenza di Tito was staged in public here for the first time.

The Church of St Havel

The Church of St Havel is one of the best examples of baroque architecture and furnishings in Prague and is worth a peek in the doors if you’re interesting in Baroque Art. The church was established in 1232, but it’s Baroque architectural facade was built in 1723. Inside you’ll find works of art such as the famous “Calvary” by Ferdinand Brokoff.

The Karolinum

The Karolinum is a series of buildings that makes up the seat of Charles University, established by Emperor Charles IV. Charles was obsessed with the new universities popping up in all the other great cities of Europe and wanted Prague to have a national college where they could grow the minds of their students. These buildings contain some of the oldest dormitories in Europe, and one can only imagine how cool it would be to live in such a historical building.

Ovocný trh

Continue walking down Ovocný trh. Take a leisurely stroll and admire all the incredible facades of these noble houses.

Once more, walking along this street, you can pick out a hodgepodge of architectural styles. From Baroque to Cubist to functionalism. Together they are like a patchwork quilt of Prague’s artistic past. Take your time on this quiet little lane. There are so many details to admire. It’s very rare to come upon a street this full of history in Prague that isn’t littered in tourists.

Cafe Orient

At the end of the street, before turning back onto the main road, you’ll come upon the Cafe Orient. The Cafe Orient represents that unique cubist architecture and decor that was so rampant in Prague in the early 20th century. Josef Gočár designed the Cafe in 1912. Every little detail in this establishment has flourishes of cubist stylings, from the lampshades to coat hooks, you’re transported to another era once you step in the door. Even just standing outside you can see how this stylists form of architecture and decor was so becoming and captured the minds of so many young Czechs.

Powder Tower

As you turn the corner from the Cafe Orient, you’ll see off in the distance a looming, black gothic tower. This is the Powder Tower, a remnant of the old city, dating back to the 11th century. The tower was not used as protection but rather as an attractive entrance for guests to pass through when they entered the town.

At one time, the tower was used to store gunpowder and get its official name from the massive amounts stored there. Although the tower suffered damage through some of the battles fought within the city most of its original structure has remained. Only the statues and ornamentation had to be replaced or restored.

Municipal House

Beside the Powder Tower stands the Art Nouveau gem called the Obecní dům or Municipal House. If you are feeling thirsty or want to rest your legs, this is a perfect stop. Although mostly frequented by tourists, this old restaurant was once the epitome of art nouveau decor where the who’s who of Czech society would meet in the 1920s.

Hotel Paris

After stopping for a quick drink, pass by Hotel Paris as you make your way down to Old Town along Jakubská street. Hotel Paris is another stunning example of art nouveau architecture and stylish designs. Take a peek inside and see how many gilded mirror you can see right there in the lobby.

The Basilica of St. James

On the way into old town, make sure to stop off at The Basilica of St. James. The basilica has a stunning set of sculptures, hanging off the facade of the church but since the rest of the building blends into the balance of the row houses, some people right walk right by. When we walk in the door, prepare to be in awe of one of the most fabulous baroque interiors I’ve ever seen. Originally the church was built in the gothic fashion but after a fire in 1689, the church was reconstructed in the Baroque style. And what a baroque design it is.

One of the strangest items in the church is a mummified forearm that’s over 400 years old. The story goes that a thief broke into the church and tried to steal the statue of the Virgin Mary. As the thief went to take the statue, Saint Mary grabbed his arm and would not let go. When the monks arrived in the morning, the thief was still there being held by the statue. They promptly cut off his hand in retribution of his attempted crime and then put it on display in the church to teach a lesson to other sinners who would pass through the doors.

Old Town Square

As we approach the Old Town Square, walk through the quaint little street called Tyn. It’s a tiny lane that leads into Old Town Square. On all side of the laneway are shops, restaurants and cafes selling traditional Czech goods and cuisine.

Church of Our Lady

Despite it being so close to one of the most popular tourist destinations in Prague, the courtyard remains busy but not overwhelming. The shop “Botanica” sells soaps, creams, tonic water for your face and much more. It feels like a modern apothecary shop made with organic materials grown in the Czech Republic. Worth taking a look inside. As you continue down Tyn, you pass through a very narrow corridor. On one side of you is the brick walls of the Church of Our Lady. At the end of the pathway, the walls open up to a GIANT square, littered with hundreds of people, staring up at all the brilliant buildings surrounding them. This is Old Town Square.

The Church of Our Lady stands tall and omnipresent over the east side of the Square. It was built in the 14th century in the late Gothic style by Peter Parler. Parler’s relief of the Crucifixion above the northern portal is an incredible example of sculpture and architecture from this period. If you don’t venture inside, be sure to at least get close up to the building and admire all the small details and decoration.

Interior of the Church

Inside the church, you’ll find a mixture of Gothic and Baroque works. Paintings by Karel Škréta painted in 1649 dot the walls and at the back of the church lies the oldest pipe organ in the Czech Republic. It was built in 1673 by Heinrich Mundt and still works to this day.

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Statue of Jan Hus

In the centre of the square is an enormous monument of the religious reformer, Jan Hus. The statue was created to mark the 500th anniversary of his death. Jan Hus was a martyr and burnt at the stake for his beliefs which insighted the Hussite Wars.

Kinský Palace

One of my favourite buildings on the square is the Kinský Palace. It’s pink decorations, and white exterior makes it looks like a frilly, Rococo birthday cake. In 2006 it became a National Museum, but originally it was built as a palace for a noble family in 1755.

Astronomical Clock

The Prague Astronomical Clock is THE BIGGEST attraction in Prague, or at least that’s what the hoards of people crowding around it would make you believe. The clock is housed up on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall and has been there, in parts, since 1410. Legend says that if something bad were to befall the clock, Prague itself would fall. Although just a superstitious rumour, it’s been enough to keep the clock shiny and new all these years later.

There are three main parts to the clock. The first is the dial, which represents the Sun and Moon and their position in the sky. The next is the sculptures of the Apostles who, upon the hour, perform a little show for the onlookers. They move around the clock and are chased by a statue of death. This is what everyone is waiting to see but let me tell you, this little show isn’t worth fighting your way through the mob. Plus, once the show is over, the crowds disappear you get a much better view fo the rest of the clock. The final part of the clock is the calendar dial, with different medallions representing the different months of the year and their corresponding astrological signs.

Lunch Time

Around this time you might be feeling a little peckish, so it’s time to stop for something to eat. But don’t try and eat anywhere within the square. The small snack from the food vendors in their old wooden stall are vastly overpriced! And the restaurants around the square are most tourist traps and always overcrowded. Instead, head outside the square, towards the Jewish Quarter. We stopped off at VKolkovně – the first Pilsner Urquell Restaurant. Pilsner Urquell is one of the most famous of the Czech beers, and this restaurant serves it up plentifully along with traditional Czech dishes.

The restaurant has stood here for almost 100 years and aside from some minor renovations, still preserves its historical roots. There is a beer garden open in the Summer where you can sit outside and enjoy the sunshine. Since it’s so close to Old Town Square, yet tucked away enough to avoid throngs of tourists, this is a great spot to rest your feet and enjoy a cold glass of beer.

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The Jewish Quarter

After finishing your lunch, let’s continue. This part of the tour leads us into the Jewish Quarter of Prague. The Jewish Quarter is the smallest of all the areas and was once a ghetto for the Jewish people of Prague. Jews settled here in the 10th century and despite persecution, throughout the years the quarter prospered up until the 16th century. In 1850 the quarter was renamed “Josefstadt” (Joseph’s City) after Joseph II, Holy Roman Emperor who emancipated the Jews with the “Toleration Edict” in 1781.

Shortly after that, Jews were allowed to move outside the ghetto and live wherever they wanted in the city. This reduced the general population of the Jewish quarter and only Orthodox, and poor Jews remained living there. Unfortunately, most of the old Jewish Quarter was destroyed in the 20th century, but we are still left a few important building that preserves their people’s history and culture.

The Spanish Synagogue

The Spanish Synagogue is one of the newest buildings in this area, built in the same spot as where one of the oldest buildings once stood. As you look up at the building, you might feel as though you aren’t in Prague anymore but are looking up at something from Spain. The building was built in the Moorish Revival Style, inspired by the art of Arabic architecture in Spain. Inside you’ll see even more of the Moorish design, specifically the impressive gilded and polychromic parquet. The geometric mosaic pieces of wood make the inside of the church feel like the centre of the sun; glowing, warm and a treat for the eyes. Inside you’ll find less of a traditional synagogue and more of an exposition of Jewish history in Prague.

The Jewish Town Hall

The High Synagogue and the Jewish Town Hall stand together as some of the most elegant, Renaissance-style buildings along the street. The High Synagogue was built in 1568, the same year as the Town Hall. It was designed to emulate the High Synagogue in Krakow, Poland. The Town Hall was given a Rococo finished facade in the 18th century. It was a meeting house for the Jewish community and as such a very important building to the quarter. The clock on the top of the building is vital to the heart of the city. One clock face contains Roman numerals, but the other has Hebrew numbers, beginning with alpha and continuing counterclockwise are the dial.

Old Synagogue

On the other side of the road, we find the Old Synagogue, which oddly enough is Europe’s oldest mediaeval, twin nave synagogue. This building was constructed in 1270 and as such was built in the Gothic style. One of the most iconic pieces of design in this synagogue is the incorporation of the number twelve. Along the doorway, you’ll find twelve vines and twelve bunches of grapes, inside you’ll see twelve columns and twelve lancet windows. These all represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Legend also has it that inside the Synagogue, up in the attic, there lies the body of a Golem. A golem is a huge creature made of clay that can be brought to life through magic.

It is said that one day the Golem will come to life to defend its people. During WWII, the Gestapo never entered the attic during the war and the building was spared the destruction wrought by the Nazis. Perhaps it was the Golem that either scared them off or indeed protected the building from destruction just like the legend says. Either way, this building has a real sense of power and importance when you step through its doors.

Pinkas Synagogue

Little ways away, you’ll come across the Pinkas Synagogue. This is the second oldest surviving synagogue in Prague. Today it serves as a museum to commemorate the 78,000 Czech victims of WWII. Along the walls of the Synagogue are the names of the victims, a powerful memory to their lives. There is also along a large exhibition of pictures drawn by children during their incarceration in the concentration camps. These images depict their experiences in the ghetto, their capture and their memories from home. Friedl Dicker-Brandeis was a painter who led these drawing lessons in the camp and hid the drawing before being executed himself. They were later recovered and preserved here in the Pinkas Synagogue.

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Rudolfinum Concert Hall

After wandering through the colourful and ornate streets of the Jewish Quarter, we turn down Křižovnická street. As you walk, admire the enormous Rudolfinum Concert Hall. This building is the home of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and has been since 1946. It was built in 1885 and is a great place to hear some of Prague’s best musician’s.

Charles Bridge

As you continue down the street, you come upon the entrance to the Charles Bridge. This is one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks and although no doubt full of people, it is worth making your way through. The bridge was constructed in 1357 under the watchful eye of King Charles IV. The reason this bridge was always so important was that it connected the castle part of town, to the city’s old town. The bridge is 621 meters long and almost a whopping 10 meters wide! On either side of the bridge are two guard towers, once used for protection, now they only serve as a fascinating decoration for the tourists.

Before heading onto the Bridge, there are a few points here to take pictures, and it’s much better to do down here than on the bridge where the isn’t an inch of free space and pickpockets are on the prowl.

As you walk along the bridge, you come across dozens of statues and statuaries in baroque and gothic styles. They were all once original pieces created in the 16th and 17th century but now are replaced with replicas to keep better in the weather. The statues depict various saints and patrons who were of great importance during the time of its construction.

Malá Strana

Across the bridge, you’ll come to Malá Strana, or “Little Quarter” in Czech. This is the vast area of town situated on the hills below Prague Castle. In the middle ages, the city was divided into two halves, separated by the river and the Charles Bridge. King Ottokar II of Bohemia founded Malá Strana in 1257. The right side of town was the centre of the bourgeois, native Czech population. The left bank, however, was made up of many more German and Italian citizens, alongside some noble palaces. The king had brought with him many of these German craftsmen to help establish his city as one with some of the finest merchants and craftsmen in Europe.

In Mala Strana, you can explore small shops filled with trinkets, perfumes, lace and more. You can explore the various devotional churches that have stood on these stones since it’s foundation. You can eat and drink to your hearts content at the various traditional Czech pubs, bars and restaurants along the river, complete with a picturesque view of the right bank. At night, the streets are lit with lanterns and the crowds dwindle. Although it might be outside the inner city, it is a real treat to stay overnight on this side of two for a night or two. The experience is unique and one you should give a try!

Prague Castle

Most of the hotels on this side of town are housed inside beautifully restored buildings, and they give you a sense of what living in Mala Strana would have been like in the Renaissance. On the top of the hill in the Little Quarter, you’ll find Prague Castle. Although called a “castle” the area thus-named is more like its own neighbourhood than one building. This area is so vast and there is so much to see and explore it warrants it’s own walking tour. We skipped over on this leg since we wanted to spend a significant portion of time dedicated to this area and didn’t wanna rush through. If you are short on time, though, you can continue up the hill from the Bridge and wander around the Castle district, but for now, we’re going to skip over this.

St. Nicolas Square

The first stop on in the Little Quarter is St. Nicolas Square. The lower part of the square is now the site of the Holy Trinity Column, designed by Giovanni Batista Alliprandi. This was once the site of the gallows where hundreds of executions took place. But the column does not mark those events and rather is a monument to celebrate the end of the plague that ravaged the city of Prague. Along the column are the statues of various patron saints, including St. Wenceslas and St. John Nepomuk, two seminal saints for the city of Prague.

I wasn’t feeling to well and had to stop off at a pharmacy when we were visiting the square. Although I hope you don’t have the same experience, this store is incredible and is one of the oldest in the city. Despite the new medicines, it feels like an old apothecary of the 18th century. Worth poking your head inside.

St. Nicholas Church

St. Nicholas Church and the square has always served as a meeting place for citizens from the Little Quarter. It is the heart and soul of the city and as such, is an architectural marvel. Inside the church, you’ll see even more extraordinary pieces of Czech artwork. The dome is finely painted with the scene of the apotheosis of St. Nicolas, the defender of children, seamen and his followers.

Little Quarter East

Make your way across the Little Quarter’s East end by taking this shortcut through this medieval archway.

Walk down the small laneways and admire all the different shops along the road. So many of these places have been here for decades and the treasures you’ll find within are truly unique.

Along Prokopská you will see a few traditional pastry shops. If you’re feeling like something sweet, go inside on of the cafes and ask for their specialty. We got some delicious flaky sweet filled with blueberries and cream. Perfection.

Lennon Wall

As you make your way down, you’ll find yourself passing by the John Lennon Wall. The Lennon Wall is a favourite spot for tourists and locals alike. Since the 1980s, people have been coming to visit this wall and covering it in graffiti relating to John Lennon and the Beatles. It represents all the ideals that John Lennon stood for; peace, love and equality. The origins of the first piece of graffiti are unknown, but it seemed to have caught on like wildfire.

In addition to Lennon-inspired graffiti, in 1988 the wall became a place were young Czechs could air their grievances about the communist regime. Whenever local authorities would paint over the graffiti, the next day it would be covered up once more in poems and paintings. Eventually, they just stopped trying and accepted it as long as people stuck to graffitiing this one area and didn’t start defacing the entire lower half of Mala Strana. Which, politely, they did.

Love Bridge

As you continue, you will also pass by the love bridge. In the last decade, locking padlocks onto bridges has become a way of lovers to show their affection for one and other as well as leaving a piece of their love in the city. If you want to do the same, bring a lock with you and a pen and be sure to initial your names on the lock before securing it to the bridge.

Kampa Island

As you walk past the Lennon Wall and turn left, you will make your way down to Kampa Island. Kampa is a peaceful, green retreat from the busy city. On Kampa island, you’ll see lots of local Czech families out to enjoy some time outdoors. There are outdoor sculptures all along the island, along with the Kampa Modern Art Museum. This Museum features the private collection of Meda Mládek and is a treat for anyone who loves abstract modern art.

On your way out of Mala Strana, we pass across the Legion Bridge, this bridge isn’t as large or scenic as the Charles Bridge but gives you an incredible view both of the Mala Strana and the Old Town. You also get a great view of Prague Castle with the Charles Bridge in the foreground from this point.

This finishes our walking tour of Prague. Continue from here to either go back and explore the Castle District or head over to a museum (or two) and check out more about the art and culture of this amazing city.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

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History of the State Opera

The State Opera in Prague opened in 1888 was the New German Theatre. Although the outside of the building is rather drab, it is nothing compared to the incredible neo-renaissance decoration in the interior. The exterior of the building does feature decorations of busts of famous musicians such as Goethe, Mozart, and Schiller, as well as characters fro

Interior of the Prague Opera

m mythology, always significant in Operas, such as Pegasus, Icarus, Cupid, Athena, Leda and others.

The interior makes this building known worldwide as one of the most beautiful buildings in Europe. In 1886 architect Alfons Wertmüller was inspired by the opera houses in Vienna to create a fury of gold and stucco for his new Opera house in Prague. The style of the interior features neo-Rococo decorations.
It features traditional baroque designs with lots of stockworks and gold leafing. Asymmetrical designs grow like flowers across the ceiling and along the balconies. They are graceful and almost weave your mind into a lullaby while looking at them. Inside the larger designs on the roof were dark frescos of famous scenes from the many operas once put on inside these doors.

When the Opera opened, Wagner’s opera “Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg” was their first performance. The night we were visiting, we were off to see “Carmen,” an opera by French composer Georges Bizet. Although written by a Frenchman, it is set in southern Spain and follows the life of Don José, a naive soldier seduced by a sultry gypsy named Carmen.

The Production

The production was beautifully designed, well sung and touched on the comedic aspects with dexterous aplomb. We had bought box seats since they weren’t much more expensive than the regular ones, and we knew we wouldn’t have many chances to experience this luxury! And luxurious it was. The seats weren’t the most comfortable, the box itself was like something out of Phantom of the Opera, and the ornate decoration in the booth made you feel like someone special.

Exploring the Opera House

During intermission, we got to admire the detailing around the Opera house. Outside the main theatre, there was only white and gold colouring, and one can only imagine what things would have looked like when the elite of Prague came to the Opera in their colourful finery. We got a few snacks during intermission to enjoy throughout the rest of the show. I was amazed by how compelling the production was; even Dan seemed to enjoy the entire show. After it all was over, we were exhausted from a long day of travel, sightseeing and smiling.

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Although you might expect the vault to be coloured green, the name comes from an altogether different reference. During its construction, the columns and bases that held up the vaulted ceiling inside were painted green. Hence the name the “Green Vault.” A German Emerald city.

Table Of Contents

1. History
2. Tickets
3. The Great Green Vault Robbery 
4. The Vorgewölbe (Entrance Foyer)
5. The Bernsteinkabinett (Amber Cabinet)
6. The Elfenbeinzimmer (Ivory Room)
7. The Weißsilberzimmer (Silver Room or White Silver Room)
8. The Silbervergoldete Zimmer (Silver Gilt Room)
9. The Pretiosensaal (Pretiosa Room or Hall of Treasures)
10. The Wappenzimmer (Coats of Arms Room, Heraldry Room)
11. The Juwelenzimmer (Jewel Chamber)
12. The Bronzezimmer (Bronze Room)

History

Augustus the Strong was the ruler of Saxony and lived in Dresden in the 18th century. Augustus was a very wealthy man and adored his city. He spent time, money and effort to make Dresden the jewel of all Europe. The King wanted the best artists from all over the world to congregate there to live, work and create commissions for his kingdom.

Today, Dresden is not as well known as Florence or Berlin, but in the 18th century, it was referred to as the Venice of the Elbe. Augustus’ had some of the finest jewellers, metalworkers and artists working round the clock to create treasures that would rival any royal collection worldwide. But the treasurer’s served a practical purpose in addition to looking so beautiful. They were an expression of wealth and absolutist power to any visiting officials that spoke volumes of Dresden’s regime.

WWII

Dresden was very heavily bombed during WWII. But early warnings allowed the King’s men to hide the treasures in a fortress far away from the ruined city. Alas, this did not keep them safe forever. When the Red Army invaded, they stole the collection and brought it as a prize to Moscow and Kyiv. After years and years of negotiation, the pieces were returned to Dresden.

During the years of negotiation, the city of Dresden set about reconstructing the Green Vault. And in 2005, the collections and restored interiors were returned to the public. The baroque galleries and ornate displays have all been rebuilt in the same brilliant style. Today, you can walk through the rooms just as hundreds of people have done years before.

Tickets

The lineup for tickets to these galleries was intense. Only so many tickets are allotted per hour to limit the number of people they let inside. To ensure you get to visit, you can always buy your tickets online in advance. You can buy a single ticket to the Green Vault or a combined ticket to the Royal Palace that will also get you admission to the New Green Vault, Turkish Chamber, Renaissance Wing, Hall of the Giants, Royal State Apartments of August the Strong and the Porcelain Cabinet, Firearms Gallery and special exhibitions in the Kupferstich-Kabinett.

Prices: Green Vault Adults €14.00 | Combined Ticket €24.50

We arrived a little before our designated ticket time, so we enjoyed our coffee while perusing the large art bookstore inside the museum. This place was a dream; there were hundreds of art books, paper doll collections, postcards, jewellery pieces, and more. It was probably my favourite bookstore we visited on our entire trip. I could have just lived here.

The Great Green Vault Robbery 

Another reason that they are so strict about limiting the numbers inside the green vault is due to the modern-day robbery that took place here in 2019. On November 25th, a collection of royal jewellery was stolen from the museum. Included in the heist was a 49-carat Dresden White Diamond, the diamond-laden breast star of the Polish Order of the White Eagle, which belonged to the King of Poland, a hat clasp with a 16-carat diamond, a diamond epaulette, and a diamond-studded hilt containing nine large and 770 smaller diamonds, along with a matching scabbard. Thankfully, the collection’s most significant treasure, the green diamond, was away on loan at the MET Gallery in New York.

The worth of stolen items was valued at over €1 billion! But it was the cultural significance that was truly priceless. The Green Vault closed its doors to the public after the theft. Thankfully, in 2022 thirty-one of the stolen items were recovered by the German authorities. Today, the museum plans to reopen in February 2023 to allow guests back inside to see the collection again.

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The Vorgewölbe (Entrance Foyer)

Before entering the museum, you must enter a large waiting room, which features an introductory audio program. Also in this room are various pieces from the collection that aren’t currently displayed in the gallery. Also in this gallery are photos of the Green Vault taken before WWII. This gives you an idea of the extent of destruction and reconstruction required to bring this place back to life after the Dresden bombings.

Also included in the waiting area, are a collection of enamel works from Limoges and other ceramics that date back to the Middle Ages and early Renaissance.

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No Photo Policy

You are not allowed to take pictures inside the gallery. A policy which always pains me. But especially after the rubbery, they are so careful about the security of this precious museum. But in not allowing you to take photos, you are forced to truly immerse yourself without distraction into exploring the collection.

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The Displays

When it was time to enter the gallery, you approached a set of glass doors with your ticket and were quickly given a once-over by security. Then you walk through a dust-proof double door which sucks out all the air from your entering before opening the second set of doors. This is because everything isn’t behind glass when you are in the gallery. The tiny pieces of the collection are displayed on gilt shelves, which hover like flying carpets against mirrored walls, just as the King once displayed them.

The Bernsteinkabinett (Amber Cabinet)

The first room you enter after exiting the spaceship-like dust-proof room is the Bernsteinkabinett or the Amber Cabinet room. The exhibit includes 16th-century vessels, bowls, ceremonial cutlery and statuettes produced in the amber workshops in Königsberg and Danzig. Amber art was thought to be the most luxurious of all the art forms, so it was no surprise that it found its way into royal chambers.

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The King of Prussia gave many of the pieces to Augustus the Strong. Prussia was then famous for its skilled Amber sculptures. The small Amber Cabinet, the showpiece of this room, was one of those gifts. Its incredible handwork is astonishing. The tiny amber drawers with inlaid gold are fantastic. There is something about Amber’s art that is transfixing. It swirls and changes shape as the light reflects upon its glasslike surface.

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The Elfenbeinzimmer (Ivory Room)

After the Amber room, you enter the Elfenbeinzimmer (the Ivory Room). Save for a few numbered plaques, this room almost doesn’t feel like a museum. It only feels like you’re walking through a beautiful house you’ve been invited into. The small groups allow the space not to feel overcrowded. Everyone respects the silence, and despite being a touristy place, it does feel relatively peaceful.

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Atop all the shelves were a variety of small carved statues made from pure ivory. The ivory towers with impossibly tiny spirals inside are still one of the most amazing pieces of art and engineering. I cannot imagine how skilful and still those hands who made that must be. The bright white ivory is set against dark terracotta marble and a rich red and black tiled floor. Creating the most luxurious juxtaposition.

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The Weißsilberzimmer (Silver Room or White Silver Room)

The next room is the Weißsilberzimmer (the White Silver Room). This room displays some of the finest examples of silver plates, flatware, buffets, oversized silver vessels and large pieces for dinner service from Augustus the Strong. This room is painted floor-to-ceiling emerald green and trimmed in gold to contrast the silver on display. The vaulted ceilings are bright white and accented with elaborate details.

These silver pieces are some of the best examples of silversmith artwork from the 17th and 18th centuries. You won’t see any pieces in here from the 19th century, as most silver from that era was melted down to fund the crown’s dwindling bank account. One of the most important treasures from this room is a solid gold drinking bowl from Ivan the Terrible. One of Augustus’ prized possessions.

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Along one wall, are shelves are dedicated to the gold ruby glass of the royal palace. Its dark red colour pops against the green walls. The red colour was produced by adding gold chloride as it cooked. The ruby glass was frequently associated with magical powers. Coral was also thought to have magical properties and, as such, was incorporated into many silver gilt designs from the 17th-18th century.

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The Silbervergoldete Zimmer (Silver Gilt Room)

As you pass through the Emerald green of the White Silver Room, you come upon the Silbervergoldete Zimmer (the Silver Gilt Room). In contrast to the previous one, this room is painted a deep vermillion. The mirrors in this room are smaller but formed into various baroque shapes. This room features gilded silver pieces, gold drinking vessels, and carved figurines. Most figurines feature Greek myths’ stories, but some also feature historical figures.

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One of the most striking pieces in this room is a jewellery box made of gilded silver, mother of pearl and precious stones. It was a Christmas gift that Christian I gave his wife Sophie in 1585. Inside the lid of the box was once a tiny clock, but only fragments of the clock have been preserved. One can only imagine which precious jewels Sophie kept inside this box.

The Pretiosensaal (Pretiosa Room or Hall of Treasures)

As you enter the next room, you immediately notice that this is the largest of all the rooms. This is the Pretiosensaal (Hall of Treasures). This room reminded me greatly of the Chandelier Gallery in Versaille.

It was not as big as Versaille, perhaps, but even more opulent. Along each wall, from floor to ceiling, were gilded ostrich eggs, nautilus and sea snails set in silver, vessels made of coloured gems and ambers, microscopic portraits inlaid onto ornate cherry wood boxes and even rock crystal bowls decorated with Grecian heroines.

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Precious Crystals

In the Middle ages, rock crystal was believed to have magical powers. I think you can see a theme emerging. The King wanted the finest things in his collection and anything that would perhaps imbue him with more power. Since crystals were thought to be pure, it was thought to symbolize God and the purity of the Virgin Mary.

But not everyone was on board with these thoughts. In fact, some found these jewels to be an affront to God. As nothing should be worshipped aside from God himself. Saxony was one of the wealthiest countries of the time, and they loved showing off their wealth anywhere they could. This resulted in the creation of some of these outlandish drinking vessels. There were glasses made from ostrich eggs and sea snail shells, goblets made of mother of pearl, and even coconuts inlaid with gemstones. These were considered the devil’s inventions and deplored by God in Heaven by many monks who served the King.

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The Wappenzimmer (Coats of Arms Room, Heraldry Room)

The Wappenzimmer (the Heraldry Room) features copper and gilded coats of arms of the Saxon provinces, the Polish state coat of arms and the original plates of the House of Wettin electorates. This room serves as a nice break from the overwhelming decor of the previous rooms. Some of these coats of arms still bare the damage from the WWII bombings. And you can see the burnt metal’s edges almost peeling away. This an excellent example of how fire can burn through almost anything.

The Juwelenzimmer (Jewel Chamber)

Up next is the Juwelenzimmer (Jewel Chamber). Here are the crown jewels of the Saxon-Polish royalty. This was the room that was the target of the 2019 burglary. Behind solid glass are golden pendants, necklaces and rings, electoral swords and modern gem sets. The room looks like a bedazzled royal coat of arms. Blue and crimson walls are decorated with ornamental fields of mirrors and covered in gold engravings.

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Dresden Green Diamond

In this room, the real crown jewel of the Green Vault can be viewed. It is the impossibly rare Dresden Green Diamond, a massive, naturally irradiated gem from India. The diamond is embedded in a statue called the “Moor with Emerald Cluster” or the “Jewel Garniture” and the “Obeliscus Augustalis.” It is a flawless hunk of green carbon, unfined and perfect. Augustus was obsessed with possessing rare and precious stones. He was so impressed with this gem that he didn’t want to ruin its natural state and therefore commissioned statuettes designed to carry the precious stone.

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Sapphire Collection

One of my favourite pieces from the gem room is the Sapphire collection. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Sun King Louis XIV started a trend of making jewellery designed in a uniform style. This meant that buttons, buckles, weapons, snuff boxes, pocket watches, hat decorations and more all possessed reflected the same designs and detailing. This attire gave the impression of absolute uniformity throughout the monarchy and the royal family. For Augustus, he did so with his signature Dresden Sapphires.

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The Bronzezimmer (Bronze Room)

The final room is the Raum der Renaissance bronzes (Room of Renaissance Bronzes). It features some large, bronze sculptures from the 17th century.

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Dresden’s Green Vault offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s most magnificent collections of treasures. From its stunning Baroque architecture to its sparkling jewels, intricate enamels, and precious goldsmith works, the Green Vault is a testament to the skill and artistry of the master craftsmen of centuries past. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of fine art, or simply looking for an exceptional experience, a visit to the Green Vault is an absolute must! If you’ve visited before, let me know your favourite part of the collection.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Dresden’s Amazing Historic Green Vault first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.