August 28, 2009 - Final afternoon in Prague

We all headed out from Dobruška this morning at 9:30 and got to Prague about noon. Margaret called taxis for herself, Kathy and me, as she knew a reputable company - AAA. This turned out great, as I had two large suitcases and two carry-on bags. Got to Leon Hotel in 10 minutes for 140 crowns or about seven US dollars. Was able to navigate my way around Prague this afternoon without maps! Fourth time was the charm. Got to the CD store on Loretto Square and on the advice of Kathy toured the Loretto Church, which was spectacular.

Loretto Church

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Got to hear the bells play at 3 p.m. too. These bells were what one of the poems we recited for the concluding program was about, so that was a fun connection. Then went to St. Vitus Cathedral near the main castle, which we had not been able to get into on our Dobruška day in Prague because there were hundreds of people in line around noon when we had a chance to go. At 3:30 there was no line at all and the afternoon light was perfect for pictures inside - and it was free!

St. Vitus Cathedral

The Alphonse Mucha Window

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Then took the tram and metro to Vysherad - the ancient castle site south of town and was able to explore there - views of Prague and the river, the old ruins and church, and especially the cemetery.

Vysherad

Found the graves of Božena Nemcova and Dvořak, but was not able to find Smetana.

Dvořak's Grave

As I was leaving, found a location list and map of the famous people buried there and did then locate Smetana's grave. There were also two Trnka family burial plots so I photographed the information for later study.

One of the Trnka Gravesites

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Then went back to the hotel, made my list for customs tomorrow, and had dinner at the Mexican restaurant near the hotel. Kathy and I had gone there for ice cream the night before Dobruška, so it was fun to find that I could now order in Czech! Quite a difference from a month ago, even if I cannot do a regular conversation yet.

Now off to bed for hopefully a little sleep before my 4:30 a.m. wake-up call.

Praha (Prague) – Miscellaneous Photos

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