Monday June 1st 2009

After a good night's sleep we were able to tackle our day. Originally we had planned to take the tram to the Strahov Monastery, but then Hera reminded me that today was Monday, and if it was open or not. We quickly returned home to check, and while we did know that many sites were closed today, we could not find any reference if the Monastery was open or closed today.

So we decided to try our luck with the Municpal House. We had some time to spare, so we wandered into the Old Town Square, and watched the toursists enjoy the hourly Clock Tower show, that we have already caught numerous times by now.

Behind Tyn Church we came across a lovely quiet courtyard called Ungelt. A small enclosure that seems to insulate one from the crowds. Ungelt courtyard was the hostel for foreign merchants, where the could store their wares, and pay their taxes before setting up their stalls in the Old Town Square. For security, the courtyard was built with only two entraces, making the enclosure safe, and easy to guard.

Our eyes fell upon some scrupmtious looking cookies. With cookie in hand, we wandered out of Ungelt courtyard.

Municipal House was built in the dying years of the Austrian-Hapsburg Empire, to promote Czeck nationalism. It is a great example of Art Nouveau, although it is eclectic in that other styles are included in the design. It is a grand structure and holds Prague's largest concert hall.

We took a tour, that was certainly worthwhile. Our guide was pleasant and very informative, taking us through several unique rooms and halls of the building, each with it's own personal style and ambiance. One lovely room was decorated by Mucha, with his characteristic painting style, as well as his gorgeous stained glass.



Hera loved the Municpal house, as she merrily clicked away with her camera.
Leaving the Municipal House, we made our way to the Vlttava River, enjoying the lovely buildings, and views from the various bridges, and across the river.

As we walked home, we picked up an ice cream in the Old Town Square, and planned our evening and next day.




Cheers,

Hera & Anthony