Prague Christmas Markets: Full City Center Walking Tour (4K 60fps)

Prague Christmas Markets: Full City Center Walking Tour (4K 60fps)

Welcome to Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic! The City of a Hundred Spires is perfectly nicknamed due to its abundance of historic architecture. We begin our walk in the bustling Old Town Square, the oldest square in Prague’s historic center. This is the Old Town Hall. We will go up its tower later in the tour. The Old Town Square market is regularly named as one of the best by the international media. The Christmas market has a spectacular Christmas tree each year, famed for its artistic lighting and decorations. Surrounding this square are many historic Gothic buildings. The food at the markets is legendary. You can find local products like salami and cheese at the stalls. This market also has one of the best backdrops of dramatic churches and characterful houses. As we walk up the steps, you can see the spires of the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn. The Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn dates from the 14th century and is one of the city’s most iconic buildings. The Old Town Hall, also dating from the 14th century, is another iconic building on the square. The Church of Our Lady before Týn’s spires are an impressive 262 feet (80 meters) tall. In the center of the square is the Jan Hus monument, an iconic sculpture of a 15th-century martyr. This platform can get a little crowded! Everyone stops here to get their picture taken in front of the tree….which blocks the way down. These delicately decorated houses around the square date from the 17th century. The market also has a spectacular Christmas tree each year. This year’s is a 22 meter tall spruce from the village of Krompach in the Českolipsko region. The tree was selected from 45 candidates. We have to pass through two large buildings to reach the entrance of the church. This building, the House at the White Unicorn, dates to the 14th century. Oh, here is the church, tucked away back here. The Church of Our Lady before Týn in Prague is free to enter, though a voluntary donation is asked. Visitors cannot climb up either of the twin towers of the Church of Our Lady before Týn. Many of Prague’s stunning historic architecture has survived because it wasn’t rebuilt in the 18th and 19th centuries. I would like to sample it all! But no, I must keep filming! Punch is one of the most popular drinks at Prague’s markets, made from alcohol, sugar, lemon, fruit juice and spices. Prague was just a provincial town during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which helped preserve its architecture. Don’t miss out on the sweet treats! Trdelník is a traditional sweet delicacy heated over coals and served warm. I get at least one of these per day when I’m out filming these markets! I’ll walk it off, right? To our left here is the Old Town Square Park. Spit-roast ham is very traditional and was supposedly first prepared by a Prague butcher in the 19th century. The famous ham is brine cured and stewed before being smoked. Over 600,000 tourists visit Prague in December, many coming for its delightful Christmas markets. I really want to make one of these so I can cook myself a good daily amount of chimney cakes! This is St. Nicholas Church which was built between 1732 and 1737. Another must-try local delicacy you can find at the market stands are potato pancakes. I don’t know where this guy will take you, but I am assuming around to the other markets. We are now going to pass through the market again and head over to the next market at Republic Square. The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square markets are the two main markets in Prague. The 13th-century markets that took place in Vienna weren’t actually Christmas or religious themed, but they clearly began a trend. The first Christmas markets are thought to originate in Vienna in 1296. In 1296, Duke Albrecht I ruled that residents could hold 14-day fairs during the month of December. Trdelník is made from crispy rolled-up pastry topped with sugar, cinnamon and crushed almonds. Winter markets also sprung up in Germany in the 14th century. The tree light animation to music takes place every day at 16:30, 17:30, 18:30, 19:30, 20:30, and 21:30. The music for the tree illumination alternates between “Elizabethan Serenade” and an orchestral version of “All I Want for Christmas is You” The Christmas market in Nuremberg, Germany, can be traced back to 1628. Christmas markets began to spread across Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries. The markets haven’t changed much—in the past they also sold baked goods and handmade gifts. Christmas markets declined in the 19th century as they competed with department stores selling cheaper, mass-produced products. In Germany, Christmas markets were actually revived by the Nazi regime in the 1930s. Celetná Street has always been part of the Royal Route, the coronation path of Bohemian kings ending at Prague Castle. The street was named after the bread rolls that used to be baked here in the Middle Ages. You can still find many houses here bearing the original house signs, used before house numbering. The House of the Black Madonna on Celetná Street is a key example of Cubist architecture in Prague. Franz Kafka spent part of his childhood (August 1888- May 1889) in the Sixt House on this street. The House At The Golden Angel is a historic hotel that once hosted Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The street leads to the imposing Powder Tower, first built in the 15th century. The Powder Tower was one of the original city gates separating the Old Town from the New Town. There were once 13 city gates around Prague. The cost to go up the tower was about $8.00. The Powder Tower was never intended as a defensive tower, but only as an elegant entrance to the city. You can see the Church of Our Lady before Týn from the top, which is also visible from several points in the city. The sculptures on the tower were replaced in 1876. Construction began in 1475, with the foundation stone placed by Vladislav II, King of Bohemia. The gate was used to store gunpowder in the 17th century, which is how it got its moniker. The dome of the Art Nouveau Municipal House is a venue for concerts and ballet performances. From the top, you get a breathtaking view over the city and its many spires! The Powder Tower is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic gates in Europe. The tower rises nearly 50 metres high and a spiral staircase with 136 steps leads to the top. The tower was the work of architect Peter Parler, who also designed the Charles Bridge and part of St. Vitus Cathedral. The tower’s design is rich in symbolism related to astrology and sacred geometry. The first floor of the tower used to be a guardhouse, and the second floor served as a prison for debtors. The beheaded heads of twenty-seven executed Czech lords were exhibited here in 1621. We now arrive at Republic Square (náměstí Republiky), a major transport hub. This charming pedestrianized street has buildings dating from as early as the 15th century up to the 18th. Republic Square also hosts a smaller Christmas market with craft products and food stands. Okay…I know I show these a lot…but I am really want one every time I walk by! You can find classic food and drink offerings like mulled wine, punch, roast chestnuts and pancakes. Republic Square Christmas Market runs from around late November to Christmas Eve. This market is often a good alternative to the Old Town Square for a bit less crowding. Most vendors at the smaller markets sell handcrafted items and traditional Czech products. The best time to visit the markets is on weekdays or earlier in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. Look for traditional wooden toys and handmade glass decorations for unique gifts. Many stalls accept both cash (Czech Koruna) and card payments. Prague is particularly beautiful at night with all the Christmas lights and decorations. My camera setup is kind of big, which sometimes prevents me from showing everything in the stalls. The vendors get a little tense when they see a big camera approaching. Although some smile and welcome it. Personally, I find the food much more interesting than the souvenirs. For reference, $1.00 (USD) equals about 21 Czech Koruna (CZK). Or $5=100CZK. I must have been hungry when I was filming this. All this food is getting to me! Here at the market stalls you’ll find teplá medovina — warm honey-wine, a centuries-old Czech winter drink made from fermented honey and served for steaming cold-day cheer. The large lit up building on the corner is the Kings Court Hotel. The cost is about €450 per night for a basic double room. A deluxe is about €1,350 per night. Have you ever stayed a place like that?? I never have. We will walk by the hotel where I stayed. I will point it out to you soon. We are now heading out of Republic Square toward Na Příkopě Street. This beautiful, illuminated area connects the Old Town and New Town. We are now on Na Příkopě Street, which translates to “On the Moat.” The street follows the line of the former Old Town moat, which was filled in and built over. Na Příkopě Street was named Kolowratská třída from 1845-70, and has been called Na Příkopě since 1871. As one of the few very wide streets in Prague, it became an important traffic artery. The first line of the Prague horse-drawn tram ran here in 1875, and was electrified in 1899. Today, the street is a major shopping boulevard connecting the Old and New Towns. The presence of the moat was essential for the defense of the Old Town in the Middle Ages. The street showcases a variety of architectural styles, from Baroque to modern department stores. This was the hotel where I stayed, the Friday Hotel Prague. The cost was $240 for two nights. Na Příkopě Street is known for having some of the highest commercial rents in the Czech Republic. The transition from the Old Town to the New Town is clearly marked by the former fortifications. This area is a business and culture hub of Prague. This part of the walk was filmed the night before, just after I checked into my hotel. We now enter Wenceslas Square, a historic and central square located in Prague’s New Town. Wenceslas Square is popular for its stalls selling traditional folk crafts. Like the Old Town Square market, this market also has a special Christmas tree. I had four of these in my two days here in Prague. 🙂 They are about $5 each. Wenceslas Square is named after Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia. The square was previously known as Horse Market because of its function during the Middle Ages. It was officially renamed St Wenceslas Square in 1848. The vast square has borne witness to many historic events, demonstrations, and celebrations. This square has the busiest pedestrian traffic in the whole country. At the far end of the square is the grand neoclassical Czech National Museum. Live carol concerts take place in the square throughout the festive period. Be cautious when buying food here—some prices are listed per 100g, so the cost can add up quickly! Wenceslas Square is technically a boulevard rather than a traditional square, measuring 750m long. The Christmas market at Wenceslas Square is usually located on the upper and lower ends of the square. The other half of the square is closed right now due to some construction. The square is a vibrant blend of history, commerce, and culture. The statue of St. Wenceslas at the top of the square is an important symbol of Czech statehood. The first mention of the Horse Market dates back to the establishment of the New Town in 1348. The market here is a little less crowded than the Old Town Square, offering a more relaxed experience. Many delicious traditional Czech soups are available at the markets, perfect for a cold day! Wenceslas Square is home to many important architectural landmarks from the 19th and 20th centuries. Prague’s New Town (Nové Město) was founded by Charles IV in 1348, making it not so “new” anymore! The sheer size of Wenceslas Square gives it a different, more open feel than the Old Town Square. Enjoy the festive mood and take a moment to absorb the historical significance of this place. The National Museum at the top of the square is the largest museum in the Czech Republic. The Christmas Market stalls in Wenceslas Square sell traditional handicrafts, including lace and ceramics. The atmosphere is enhanced by the sound of carolers and live music performances. The Christmas markets are a great place to sample delicious Czech pastries and desserts. Wenceslas Square is also a modern commercial center with hotels and shops. The square has witnessed the proclamation of independence in 1918 and protests against the Soviet invasion in 1968. Remember to try klobása (sausage) or a taste of the Prague ham. The market stalls are adorned with festive lights and Christmas decorations. This central location makes it easy to explore other nearby attractions. The atmosphere here is very lively, especially in the evenings. We are now in Jungmann Square (Jungmannovo náměstí), an intimate space in the city center. This was one of the many historical crossroads in front of the Old Town walls in the 13th century. The square gained prominence with the founding of the New Town by Emperor Charles IV in 1348. The Church of Our Lady of the Snows (Panna Marie Sněžná) was founded in 1347 by Charles IV. Charles IV planned for this church to be the largest in Prague, even bigger than St. Vitus Cathedral. However, only the choir was completed, which is why the church’s entrance is so tall today. The nearby Franciscan Garden still survive today, dating back to the reign of Charles IV. The statue in the square is of Josef Jungmann, a major figure in the Czech National Revival. The Bethlehem Exhibition (Jesličky) is a common Christmas tradition in the Czech Republic. Nativity scenes (Bethlehem mangers) were built in families long before Christmas trees were decorated. The tradition of building nativities reflects the history of carving art in the Czech Republic. Look for the unique mechanical nativities, some of which are over 100 years old with hundreds of moving figures. The figures in the mechanical scenes often depict biblical stories and moments from the life of common people. The exhibition highlights the importance of this cultural heritage during the Christmas season. Jungmann Square features a fascinating mix of architectural styles, including Neo-Baroque and modern Cubism. The quiet little square found itself at the epicenter of modern Prague’s development in the 20th century. The Church of Our Lady of the Snows has one of the highest church vaults in Prague, reaching almost 34 meters. We are now going to pass through Hazel’s Market on our way back to Old Town Square. Many of the side streets leading off the main squares offer charming views and quieter cafes. The Christmas atmosphere extends beyond the main markets into these smaller squares. The Bethlehem Chapel, though not pictured, is another historic site tied to the pre-Christmas season. The combination of historic churches and festive decorations is what makes Prague so magical at Christmas. Take a moment to appreciate the centuries of history reflected in these buildings. Charles IV was a major patron of Prague’s architecture and urban development. Charles IV was a major patron of Prague’s architecture and urban development , responsible for founding the New Town in 1348 We now enter Havel’s Market (Havelské tržiště), one of the city’s oldest and most famous markets. The market was established in the 13th century and has a rich history. Havel’s Market offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, flowers, and handmade crafts. During the holiday season, it transforms into a festive market with traditional Czech Christmas ornaments. This market provides a delightful shopping experience in a historic setting. It’s a great place to buy unique gifts and mementos away from the main square markets. The market is named after the nearby Church of St. Gall (sv. Havla). Stalls here are more permanent than the temporary Christmas stalls in the main squares. The variety of goods allows for a more traditional market shopping experience. Havel’s Market is located conveniently in the heart of Prague’s Old Town. Look for stalls selling Czech puppets and wooden toys—traditional souvenirs. The Christmas markets are a testament to Prague’s long-standing tradition of winter fairs. The first Old Town market was granted in 1232, making the tradition very old! The market area is a picturesque part of the Old Town, nestled among historic buildings. We return to the main Old Town Square for a different perspective. The square is even more magical at night with the tree and all the lights illuminated. The town hall’s most important feature is the horologe, an astronomical clock first built in the 1400s. The astronomical clock has a calendar dial and an astronomical dial, with figures set in motion every hour. The Old Town Hall is the seat of the Old Town administration, built in 1338. The Astronomical Clock is located on the southern side of the tower. The clock’s figures are set in motion every hour between 9 am and 11 pm. The view provides a great perspective on the architecture’s survival through the centuries. The view from the top is a perfect photo opportunity, capturing the heart of Prague. The Old Town Hall tower is accessible via a staircase or a modern elevator (wheelchair accessible). The colorful buildings surrounding the square truly come to life from this elevated view. The atmosphere here is one of joy and festive cheer! The Christmas tree is the centerpiece of the Old Town Square market. The Jan Hus Monument is visible in the distance, central to the square. The Church of Our Lady before Týn’s twin Gothic spires dominate the eastern side of the square. From this height, you can see the hustle and bustle of the holiday season below. Take a moment to imagine the many historical events that have unfolded in this square. Remember to try the hot filled dumplings—a popular market food. The intricate architecture and cobblestones tell the story of a preserved medieval city. The artistic lighting decorations make the night view particularly spectacular. Prague’s history as a provincial town in the Austro-Hungarian empire helped save its architecture from modernization. The sheer number of historical buildings is what sets Prague apart from many other European capitals. The market itself is an open-air spectacle of holiday cheer Yes, we are going to go up here one more time. 🙂 I have been to Prague twice and both times it was to film this Christmas market. I would like to come back during the summer to see this square then. Here you can see the Marian Column (in Czech Mariánský sloup), a freestanding Baroque monument erected in 1650. It stands about 15–16 metres tall and originally included: a sandstone column, atop which a statue of the Virgin Mary stands; at its base were sculptural groups of angels and reliefs. The column symbolised Catholic victory and Habsburg dominance in Bohemia after the Thirty Years’ War. On November 3, 1918, shortly after the end of World War I and the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the column was torn down by citizens of Prague who saw it as a symbol not just of faith but of Habsburg oppression. The crowd was too much and it took a long time to get down, so I will transition to the bottom of the steps in a moment. We are now about half way through the tour. We are going to leave Old Town Square and head over to the Charles Bridge. But first, let’s catch the evening performance. The entire historic center of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The preservation of this architecture is truly remarkable. We are now in Little Square (Malé náměstí), a charming extension of the Old Town Square. The square is lined with historic houses with arcades and original house signs. At the center of the square is a Renaissance fountain with a beautiful iron grille. Little Square is another picturesque spot for a market or to enjoy the historic architecture. We now proceed down Karlova Street, named after Emperor Charles IV. Karlova Street was historically part of Prague’s Royal Route, the ceremonial path for coronations. This narrow street has witnessed countless events, from royal processions to revolutions. It is one of the most winding and complex streets in the Old Town. Look for the house signs and architectural details that tell the story of the city’s past. The street is often very crowded as it leads directly to the Charles Bridge. The architecture along Karlova Street includes Renaissance and Baroque styles. The street will lead us toward the Vltava river. Many buildings here are medieval in origin, though with Baroque facades. The density of the architecture here is a testament to the growth of the Old Town. Enjoy the narrow, winding nature of this historic street! The street name is a tribute to the great Czech King and Holy Roman Emperor. The Old Town Bridge Tower will come into view as we approach the river. We have arrived at the Old Town Bridge Tower, a Gothic structure and a symbol of the city. The tower was constructed in 1357 under Charles IV and designed by architect Petr Parléř. From this view, we can see St. Vitus Cathedral and Prague Castle across the Vltava River. I actually started this walk in front of Prague Castle in front of the Cathedral. It took me about an hour to film the walk from the castle to the market in Old Town Square. Since tour is meant to showcase the Christmas markets, I decided to move the beginning of this tour, to the end of the video So, we will cross over the bridge and then transition to earlier in the day in front of the Cathedral. Charles Bridge (Karlův most) construction began in 1357 under King Charles IV. The bridge was built to replace the old Judith Bridge, which was washed away by floods. The bridge is 516 meters long and nearly 10 meters wide. Until 1841, this was the only means of crossing the Vltava river. Charles Bridge is the oldest bridge over the Vltava river and the second oldest in the Czech Republic. The bridge is lined with 30 statues of saints, mostly erected between 1683 and 1714. The original statues have been replaced by replicas to protect the Baroque sculptures. The originals are now housed in the Lapidarium of the National Museum. One of the most famous statues is the Holy Crucifix and Calvary. It is said that touching the statue of St. John of Nepomuk brings good luck and ensures your return to Prague. Street artists and musicians often give performances on the bridge, adding to the atmosphere. The bridge was originally named Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge, but was renamed after 1870. Many statues were placed by craft guilds to represent their patrons. The statues are a highlight of a visit and a testament to the skill of the sculptors. We have arrived at the charming Kampa Island Christmas Market. Kampa Island is a lovely area in the Lesser Town, sometimes called the “Venice of Prague.” The small market here is a quieter alternative to the Old Town Square market. Kampa Island often hosts smaller markets, most notably Easter and Christmas markets. This cozy market is decked out in cute festive décor, including bauble-studded garlands and a large Xmas tree. The food options here are sometimes considered superior to the Old Town Square market. Kampa Island is separated from the Lesser Town by the Devil’s Stream (Čertovka). The area is a pleasant riverside park perfect for a stroll. Kampa Island is a beautifully picturesque part of the city, especially during the festive season. The gate up ahead leads into an area of the city known as Lesser Town. The Lesser Town Bridge Towers mark the entrance to the Lesser Town from the bridge. The smaller Romanesque tower (on the left) dates back to the 12th Century. The taller, Late Gothic tower was built after 1464 on the site of an older Romanesque tower. The towers are the gate to the Bridge Street (Mostecká) leading to Lesser Town Square. The evening part of our tour ends here. We will resume our tour in St. George’s Square up above at Prague Castle. St. George’s Square is located inside the grounds of Prague Castle, just in front of the St. George’s Basilica. The basilica itself dates from 920 AD, founded by Duke Vratislaus I of Bohemia. After a major fire in 1142, the basilica was rebuilt and the current Romanesque appearance of the church (and the buildings around the square) largely stems from the reconstruction. On the opposite side of the square is St. Vitus Cathedral. Its full name is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saints Vitus, Wenceslaus and Adalbert. It’s the largest and most important church in the Czech Republic, symbolically and architecturally. Standing here, you are in the medieval heart of Prague’s monarchy — a place of power, faith and now tourism. Looks like we have a dragon…or was it a dinosaur? Prague Castle is often cited as the largest castle complex in the world. The castle’s origins stretch back to the 9th century. It has been the home of Bohemian kings, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents. The Castle is a powerful symbol of Czech statehood and history. We now enter the 3rd Courtyard of Prague Castle, the largest and most spectacular. The courtyard is framed by significant architecture: the western wing of the Old Royal Palace on one side and the massive Gothic façade of St. Vitus Cathedral on the other. The Old Royal Palace served as the seat of Bohemian dukes and kings and later Holy Roman emperors — making it a cornerstone of Prague’s political and royal heritage. A key monument inside this courtyard is the obelisk, a granite memorial designed by architect Jože Plečnik and erected in 1928 to commemorate victims of World War I. The complex encompasses palaces, churches, gardens, and defensive towers. There is also a historic bronze sculpture of Saint George slaying the dragon, cast in 1373, located in this courtyard. Saint George was a Roman soldier and Christian martyr who lived around AD 275–303. According to medieval legend, a dragon terrorized a town — sometimes said to be in Libya or Cappadocia (modern-day Turkey). To appease the dragon, townspeople offered sheep, and when those ran out, they began sacrificing humans chosen by lot. When the lot fell to the king’s daughter, George arrived, made the sign of the cross, and slayed the dragon with his spear. He told the townspeople to embrace Christianity, and when they did, he spared the beast — symbolically linking faith triumphing over evil. The dragon represents evil, sin, or paganism — a common symbol in Christian art. Saint George represents courage, faith, and virtue, defending the innocent and defeating darkness through divine strength. A church has stood on the site since around 925 AD, starting as a Romanesque rotunda built by Duke Wenceslaus. The Gothic cathedral you see today was commissioned in 1344 by King/Emperor Charles IV and master builder Matthias of Arras, later followed by Peter Parler. Because of wars, funding issues and changing architectural styles, the cathedral took almost 600 years to complete, finally consecrated in 1929. In terms of style: it’s predominantly Gothic — pointed arches, ribbed vaults, flying buttresses — but with other elements added over time. Inside you’ll find the ornate St. Wenceslas Chapel, richly decorated with frescoes and semi-precious stones. The crypt and mausoleums hold the tombs of Bohemian kings and important archbishops. The cathedral also houses the Bohemian Crown Jewels (in the Crown Chamber) — a symbol of national identity. A notable stained-glass window by Alfons Mucha (installed 1931) resides in the north nave, showing how later art styles were incorporated. We now proceed to the 2nd Courtyard of Prague Castle. Originally a pre-castle area, it evolved from medieval fortifications to its present Baroque appearance. The courtyard’s Baroque appearance is from the 18th century, designed by Niccolò Pacassi. This is the Powder Bridge which connects the Castle to the Royal Garden area. The bridge leads over the Deer Moat (Jelení příkop), which once protected the northern side of the Castle. The current bridge is an elevated viaduct that replaced an older wooden structure. The Second Courtyard housed unique stables and exhibition halls under Rudolf II. We now arrive at the 1st Courtyard of Prague Castle, behind the 18th-century gate. We now exit into Hradčany Square (Hradčanské náměstí), the foreground of the Castle. The monumental entrance is called the Matthias Gate, built in the early 17th century. The Schwarzenberg Palace, ahead on the left, is an early phase of palatial architecture, with Renaissance sgraffito decor. The gate is guarded by an armed guard, with a solemn changing of the guard ceremony every hour. This is a decorative gas street lamp. It features four female figures at its base, eight lantern arms above, and an allegorical figure of “Prague” at the top. To our left is the Archbishop’s Palace. It acquired its current form during a Rococo reconstruction in the second half of the 18th century. This statue is of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, who was the founding President of the independent state of Czechoslovakia in 1918. Hradčany is one of the most atmospheric districts, blending landmarks, courtyards, and views. The Castle area is a popular location for filming movies and commercials. We now descend the picturesque Castle Stairs (Zámecké schody). The earliest paths leading up to Prague Castle were dirt trails from the 9th-10th centuries. The trails were formalized into stone steps in the 17th century for easier access. The Old Castle Stairs were rebuilt and widened in the 1830s, giving them their present-day structure. The stairs offer fantastic views of the Lesser Town and the Vltava river. The stairs lead directly down into the heart of the Lesser Town (Malá Strana). This area is called Malá Strana in Czech, which literally translates to “Small Side”. It’s often rendered in English as Lesser Town, Lesser Quarter or Little Side. Originally in 1257 the district was founded as a “royal town beneath the castle.” Later, when the larger “New Town” ( Nové Město ) of Prague was established in 1348, the older settlement beneath the castle was distinguished by name and thus became known as the Lesser Town. Malá Strana was formally founded in 1257 by King Ottokar II of Bohemia (Přemyslid) as a royal town merging smaller settlements beneath Prague Castle The area suffered major destruction during fires (notably in 1541) and was rebuilt in Renaissance and later Baroque styles. We are now going to walk back across the Charles Bridge to the Old Town Square. The Lesser Town Hall (Malostranská beseda) was built in 1470 and rebuilt in Baroque style in 1630. The Lesser Town is the main embassy district in Prague. The Smiricky Palace here was the site where Czech nobles gathered before the 1618 Defenestration of Prague. The Lesser Town is quieter than the Old Town and a lovely area to stay. Bridge Street has connected Charles Bridge to the square for over 750 years. It was once part of the royal coronation route. Look for the house marked by three painted ostriches, which was once a feather merchant’s storefront. We will pass beneath the Lesser Town Bridge Towers once more before crossing the bridge. Construction on the bridge began in 1357 under King Charles IV. The bridge is lined with 30 statues of saints. The statues were mostly erected between 1683 and 1714. The original statues have been replaced by replicas to protect the Baroque sculptures. The originals are now housed in the Lapidarium of the National Museum. It is said that touching the statue of St. John of Nepomuk brings good luck and ensures your return to Prague Or, just get online, book your ticket, and return to Prague all on your own without touching a statue. 🙂 The bridge was originally named Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge, but was renamed after 1870. I don’t know…I don’t get it. I’ll return Prague at Christmas just to eat the Chimney cakes! The bridge is said to be protected by the guardian angel of Prague. The statues tell the stories of various saints and historical figures. We are now going to go up to the top of the Old Town Bridge Tower. We are now at the top of the Old Town Bridge Tower for a different view of the city. From this height, you get a breathtaking view over the city and its many spires! The view encompasses the Charles Bridge, the river, and the Lesser Town beyond. The tower rises nearly 50 metres high and offers great panoramic views. You can fully appreciate the scale of Charles Bridge from this elevated position. The tower was completed before 1380 as part of the Old Town’s fortifications. You can see the multitude of historical buildings that line the Vltava river. Time to head back down. Across the piazza is the Church of St. Salvator. This is a monument to Charles IV, the Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia. Have you ever been to Prague? What did you enjoy most about your visit? Would you put Prague on your list of Must See cities in the world? Just like any major city, you can just follow the crowds if you don’t know where to go. But do we go left of right? The street to the left leads more into the Josefov district of the Old Town. Historically known as the Jewish Ghetto (later renamed after Emperor Joseph II) — “Josefov” means “Joseph’s town/city”. Jews are believed to have settled in Prague in this area as early as the 10th century, and by the 13th century the community became more formally defined. In 1850 the quarter was renamed Josefov in honour of Joseph II, whose reforms (including the Edict of Tolerance in 1781) gradually eased restrictions on the Jewish community. Between 1893 and 1913 much of the original ghetto layout was demolished as part of a city-modernisation project, though several important synagogues and the Old Jewish Cemetery were preserved. The Old Jewish Cemetery nearby contains nearly 12,000 visible tombstones and is one of Europe’s oldest Jewish burial sites. The Old-New Synagogue, built around 1270, remains in use and stands as Europe’s oldest functioning Gothic synagogue. We have now arrived back at the Little Square. Seems like they could come up with a better name than that. This is The House at the Minute, one of the most photographed facades in Prague because of its intricate black-and-white sgraffito decoration. Thank you for joining me on this tour. If you enjoyed the walk, please leave a like on the video or share it with a friend. Also, please consider subscribing to the channel. It’s free and helps Youtube to make better suggestions for your Youtube home page. Also…I would really love to reach the 1 million subscriber mark. I need to have goals, right? 🙂 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

*Prague Christmas Markets 2024 (4K 60fps Walking Tour):*
Experience the magic and festive cheer of the Old Town and Wenceslas Squares, two of Europe’s most charming holiday destinations! Walk with us through the “City of a Hundred Spires” as we sample famous street food like Trdelník and see historic landmarks like the Astronomical Clock and the Charles Bridge. This full tour captures the artistic lighting , Gothic architecture, and the lively atmosphere. (Note: The tour starts in the Old Town Square and concludes with the famous walk through the Lesser Town and Prague Castle, filmed earlier in the day! )

📅 *Filmed on* Monday, December 9th, 2024 starting at 3:30 PM
🌞 *Weather* 2°C | 36°F 🌡
🗺️ *Map of the Walk* https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1kQxBb_O50fzsBPTyIV56R-1qOmB7cIc&usp=sharing 🗺️

⏱️ *Video Timeline*
0:00 Intro and Map
*1:00 Old Town Square*
28:55 Celetná Street
34:16 The Powder Tower (View from the top)
*41:02 Republic Square*
53:14 Na Prikope Street
*59:09 Wenceslas Square*
1:20:25 Jungmann Square
1:21:56 Church of Our Lady of the Snows
1:24:16 Bethlehem Exhibition
*1:34:30 Havel’s Market*
*1:42:14 Old Town Square*
1:45:08 Old Town Hall Tower View (Panoramic City Views)
2:19:50 Little Square
2:21:57 Karlova Street
2:29:32 Old Town Bridge Tower
2:32:06 Charles Bridge: Crossing the Vltava River
*2:41:12 Kampa Island Christmas Market*
2:46:55 Lesser Town Bridge Towers
*2:48:26 Prague Castle: St. George’s Square & St. Vitus Cathedral*
2:52:42 3rd Courtyard
3:01:50 2nd Courtyard
3:03:28 Powder Bridge over the Deer Moat
3:06:44 1st Courtyard
3:07:32 Hradčany Square
3:12:33 Castle Stairs
3:17:55 Lesser Town Square
3:21:48 Bridge Street
3:24:36 Charles Bridge
3:37:30 Old Town Bridge Tower: Charles Bridge Panoramic
3:46:58 Karlova Street
3:53:57 Little Square
3:55:42 Old Town Square

If you enjoyed the walk, please subscribe and let me know your favorite part of Prague in the comments!

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📽 *MORE WALKING TOURS*
🎄Christmas Markets Playlist: (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSOO4vYXpMCd2nqHyPaDtgxkf_BsAuQCt&si=0YU1zhv0tLbwm8u6)
🍕 Italy Playlist: (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSOO4vYXpMCc6k7EuMhr764qCNeXDrxpj&si=aYfLAtNw1eGc560w)
🏛️ Greece Playlist: (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSOO4vYXpMCf151n5M3j9IxxvvvZNK7TM&si=xW-ewBTs4pzb90a1)
🚴 Biking Tours Playlist: (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSOO4vYXpMCe4SaQXMk9IMfpkl1w473Zz&si=1rFBHTnZtCMmykPA)
🐪 Egypt Playlist: (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSOO4vYXpMCc_y7TUiJufW_N_QZod0M8d&si=XgIlOOZb0DLiPt9z)
🍣 Japan Playlist: (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSOO4vYXpMCc69vi-SFMODDGKQf_7D-IK&si=hxZIpoG9x1Ypszyq)
🥁 Brazil Playlist: (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSOO4vYXpMCcefbIXpStQK7fPRJBBiBAH&si=Zlji0Mfbp3sJlyjs)
🦘 Australia Playlist: (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSOO4vYXpMCcuh1sGTbEtCldxhCA6grbV&si=tQ56vSTmsQKUNWjN)
🌍 Complete List of Walks: http://www.prowalks.com/videos
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