Silver & Bones...Prague

Prague has gone by way too fast. I stayed with 2 local guys Jan & Vladimir in a gorgeous converted apartment. It was a former 14th century boarding house central to everything. They finally had their chance tonight to ask away their Aussie questions & they bravely tried their 1st vegimite! They ate their serves even though they didn’t like it. Part humour, curiosity & perhaps not to offend even though I admitted after their 1st bites I didn’t like it either. I was kind enough to warn them to spread it lightly.

Everyday I’ve completed the walk across the Kurluv Most (Charles Bridge) & up to the Prazsky Hrad (Prague Palace). Every time I’ve discovered something different. 

Day 1 (afternoon arrival) I came across a crowded French Market. I eventually managed to order some cinnamon crepes (suggested by the girl) & took them down to the Kurluv’s waterfront base to enjoy.

Day 2 Was rather spontaneous as I really wanted to see the Ossuary (Bones Church) this trip but thought I had left it too late for today. I was planning on catching a train to the town of Kutna Hora & after researching, I decided to put it off for the next day. As I headed into the town, I investigated a tour company that offered a tour leaving an hour later & decided to take a chance & join it.
I filled in the time with a tradition meal opposite the Astrological Clock. The entree was a local sausage served with horseradish & mustard. The main was goulash with dumplings & homemade lemonade  that was served red. A guide had suggested trying a raspberry lemonade if we could find a place in town who serves it. When I tried to ask if it was raspberries with the lemon, we had a lost in translation moment & I settled with the “fruity mix” answer. I also squeeze in half of the ‘Tim Burton’ exhibit.

The tour proved worthwhile as it took us to several places within Kutna Hora. The town also has a history of silver mining, minting coins & stunning views. The ticket seller was rather rude. Another couple were in my predicament & soon struck up conversation. They just so happened to be Sydney locals from Dural! As we finally got on the bus another Aussie Jonathan from Perth recognised our accents & joined in our conversations. Seriously, I don’t think we neglected any subjects. We played tourist through the local landmarks until we came to the church which has been described as morbid. Honestly I don’t think any of us felt that way. Curiosity took over for myself although I shall forever think of pirates thanks to Sandra. On our return,Sandra & Tony rejoined their tour group & I joined Jonathan on a walk through town to the Palace & back for dinner. 

Day 3 I was finally at the Palace with it completely open to see all the exhibits & climb the South tower. Last time I was here, they were excavating tombs of a king. This time he was formally displayed in one of the exhibits as a cast of the original. I preferred the old site with it’s rawness. On the walk back I visited 2 churches, the Baroque styled St Nicholas & the Our Lady Victorious where the ‘Infant of Jesus’ doll is displayed. It wasn’t as freaky as others have described. As I neared the bridge a storm appeared from nowhere & of course I didn't  think I’d need to bring my umbrella. While others sought limited shelter I just went with the flow & walked back to the apartment sharing laughs with locals & tourist either in the same predicament or entertained by mine.