Czech Republic

A small nation in Europe, yet it has the largest castle complex in the world.

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, where I traveled back in 2004.  It is nicknamed the "city of thousand spires" because of its 1,100-year-old skyline consisting of domed churches and old towers.  This is also the reason why Prague is considered one of the architectural gems in the world. 

There are so many tourist attractions in Prague, but here are two of the most famous that I personally experienced. 

Prague Castle

It was once the home of Bohemia's Kings, and today the official residence of the Czech Republic President.  This is the largest castle complex in the world. Hence this vast fortress requires ample time to tour to enjoy it.  Within the castle are Prague's most popular tourist sites, including St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George's Basilica, the Powder Tower, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane. 

Highlights of the Prague Castle include the Old Royal Palace's main hall, the Vladislav Hall, and the Royal Garden. The Royal Garden has a Ball Game Pavilion, the Royal Summer House with a Singing Fountain, and the Lion's Court. 

One of the best things to do at night in Prague is to enjoy the castle lighted in a range of hues. Seeing all these attractions day and night is overwhelming, yet it gives you the best travel experience.

Charles Bridge

It is one of the "most recognizable old bridges in Europe."  Built in 1357, this bridge has a superstitious belief that the "builders laid the bridge stone on 9th of July at exactly 5:31 AM.  It was a precise set of numbers (135797531) and was believed to give additional strength to the bridge.  It was also constructed in perfect alignment with the tomb of St. Vitus and the setting sun on the equinox.

The bridge is famous for its old statues.  Two of the most important statues are Roman Emperor Charles IV and John of Nepomuk, the country's most revered saint. 

Another superstitious belief is rubbing the plaque at the base of the statue will make your wish come true.  I can't remember if I did that. But for sure I will do it when I set my foot again on this famous bridge.

Walking on Charles Bridge is highly recommended, especially during the late afternoon, to view the beautiful sunset. Listening to the music of local people is such an amazing experience.

There are two important possessions I have that remind me of my visit to Prague.  One is the Infant Jesus or the Sto Nino statue, and the other one is the blue sapphire pendant.

A special devotion to the Infant Jesus originated in Prague at the beginning of the 17th century. History says that Princess Polyxenia received a wedding gift from her mother, a Divine Child's small statue from Spain. The statue was 19 inches tall, made of wood and cloth.  It represented the Infant Jesus dressed in royal robes and wearing a king's crown. After her husband's death, the princess devoted herself to charity works, particularly to the Carmelites in Prague.  When the monastery was hit by poverty, she gave the statue to the Carmelites, saying, "I give you what I prize most highly in the world; honor and respect the Child Jesus, and you shall never be in want." 

The Carmelites kept up their devotion to the Divine Infant, and everything prospered with them. The original statue is now preserved in the church of St. Mary of Victory in Prague.

Replica of Sto. Nino is honored in many parts of the world, including the Philippines.  Hence, my visit to Prague was completed with my Sto. Nino statue. I still have it with me, in the drawer beside my bed. I consider it as one of the most precious souvenirs from my travels.

Whenever I wear my blue pendant, I always get a compliment. I am proud to tell them that I bought it in Prague, and I recommend visiting the country. 

I may not have photos to document my trip to the Czech Republic, but I have wonderful memories and souvenirs. It is one of my favorite countries, and I look forward to visiting again.