Tag: Staré Město (Old Town)

A photo of the Black Sun - Prague, Czechia

The Black Sun in medieval Prague

Tourists stroll along Prague’s Celetna street, heading to or from the beautiful Old Town Square. Those who look up and marvel at the art on the buildings facades will wonder what the symbol of a black sun means. This article explores its mythology and its connection, or otherwise, to Prague's mystical alchemical trail.
A photo of the facade of St Vitius Cathedral - Prague, Czechia

The Myth of Sylvanus

Throughout the ages, man had a certain respect for nature. Many cultures imagined that there must be some spirit or god responsible for nature and the wilderness. The Romans called
A photo of the statue of St John of Nepomuk with the river Vltava behind him - Prague, Czechia

The Legend of St John’s 5 Stars

Uniquely amongst Catholic saints, the statue of the Bohemian St John of Nepomuk has 5 stars on its halo. Catholic tradition usually portrays the Virgin Mary with stars (and all others with a simple halo), so what's the story here?
A photo of the statue of mercury on the House of the Golden Angel - Prague, Czechia

This Golden Angel Hides a Mystical Prague Secret

Stand beneath the gilded figure on Celetná Street and you'll discover more than just beautiful baroque art. You'll be at the threshold of one of Europe's most intriguing alchemical mysteries – a divine messenger who has watched over travellers, merchants, and seekers of hidden knowledge for centuries.
A photo of the Powder Tower by night - Prague, Czechia

Prague’s Powder Tower: The Full History

Tourists crowd around the Powder Tower for selfies and videos and who can blame them? The city is photogenic; this tower is one of the iconic scenes people have in mind. The funny thing about the tower is that, grandiose as it is, it was always more ornamental than useful. This article explains why and how it was built, and how it became what it is today.
A photo of a glass of Prosecco

A Crystal Night

One juggling act travellers face is simple – when choosing a restaurant do you go for something close to the reassuring familiarity of the tourist centre or do you opt for