Stuff you don't find in guide books
The Rotunda of St Stephen in Prague, was part of the Christianization effort in Bohemia. Constructed in the Benedictine-owned village of Na Rybničku, the rotunda was later owned by Teutonic Knights who reconsecrated it to St Longinus in the 15th century.
Accidents of geography have determined as much of world history and culture as anything else. Rivers and mountains became natural, then political, borders. The Czech town of Hranice used to be a meeting point between 3 countries.
One thing which fascinates me is the amount of human history we’ve lost. The barbican is one of those historical architectural features we’ve almost lost. In fact in Coimbra, Portugal, one of the remaining few is often confused with something else.
Rotundas used to be common in Central Europe. Prague was no exception and it is a shame so many have disappeared. This article explains how archaeologists re-discovered St Wenceslas’ rotunda which stood in the Lesser Town Square (Malostranské náměstí).
Driving through Bohemia heading to (or from) Poland means driving through some beautiful landscapes. If you’re looking for a pit stop but don’t want a faceless motorway cafe, I’d recommend a quick diversion to the quaint town of Jičin.
Along the Atlantic coast, in Portugal’s central region, lies the town of Nazaré – literally, Nazareth. It sprawls over a clifftop and a beach belowRead More