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Travel Blog: Czech Republic- Architectural Magic and World-Famous Spa Towns

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Leeds chapter.

The Czech Republic is a great destination not only for its interesting, cultural sights, but also for its picturesque views and unique natural landscapes. Prague, the capital, is an attractive tourist destination with countless historical attractions. I also highly recommend  a visit to Karlovy Vary, in order to admire the spectacular landscape.

Prague

Prague is undeniably a centre for both culture and the arts. One of the main attractions in this lively capital city is the Old Town square with its famous astronomical clock. Its origins in the 12th century, the Old Town Square is the most important square in the historical centre of Prague and is one of the most beautiful historical sights in Europe. Many are attracted to the sight to see ‘The walk of the Apostles’, an hourly clockwork show featuring figures of the Apostles and a calendar dial with medallions representing the months.

Prague Castle is another must-see sight. According to the Guiness World Records, it is the largest ancient castle in the world. Prague Castle is a vast complex, which includes palaces, a church, a monastery, museums and art galleries. St. Vitus Cathedral is an excellent example of Gothic architecture and is the most important church in the country. If you have time, try to catch a classical concert in Prague. The city has long been deeply associated with music and as a result classical concerts are often staged at one of two stunning concert halls, as well as in an array of beautiful churches, palaces and other historic buildings.

Karlovy Vary is the second most visited spot in the Czech Republic. Because of its unique architecture, it is one of Europe’s most beautiful spa towns. The Hot Spring is the richest and warmest spring in Karlovy Vary and lies in the heart of the spa area. An interesting sight nearby is the Church of Mary Magdalene, a Gothic church that was built in the second half of the 14th century on a small hill above the Hot Spring. Also in the central spa district is the grand neoclassical Mill Colonnade, which houses occasional summer concerts.

Another beautiful place to  visit is the smaller town of Marianske Lazne, located near to Karlovy Vary and famous for its singing fountain, which is located in front of the Main Colonnade. An amazing water spectacle accompanied by classical music compositions can be seen at regular intervals. It is especially beautiful after dusk, when the incredible show lights up.

 

To sum up, the Czech Republic is an ideal destination for those who adore architectural heritage but also love relaxing in some amazing spa towns. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said: ‘Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail’.

Image sources:

1.     http://static01.nyt.com/images/2012/11/18/travel/18PRAGUE_SPAN/18PRAGUE-superJumbo.jpg

2.     http://www.tentree.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/prague.jpg

3.      http://kleberly.com/data_images/wallpapers/13/297648-prague.jpg

4.    https://www.private-prague-guide.com/wp-content/prague-karlovy-vary-day-tours-from-prague43.jpg

5.    http://www.discoverczech.com/apictures/z_karlovyvary/marianske-lazne/sights/singing-fountain/singing-fountain_v.jpg

My name is Elina Stylianou.I am 18 years old and I am from Cyprus.I am a first year student of English Language and Literature in the University of Leeds.I speak Greek, English,French.I have played the piano for 11 years and I adore music.I also adore travelling and that is why I am going to have a travel blog in Her Campus.