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Built with the Devil’s help, Part III: Karlov
The big dome at the Church of St Charlemagne in Karlov is simply to die for. Making a large building or a bridge requires a lot of complex math and engineering. But…
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Built with the Devil’s help, Part II: Kinský Palace
Kinský Palace may have some dark secrets buried in its foundation. Making a large building or a bridge requires a lot of complex math and engineering. But back in the Middle Ages…
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Built with the Devil’s help, Part I: Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge was falling down until an architect made a deal. Making a large building or a bridge requires a lot of complex math and engineering. But back in the Middle Ages…
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A fateful tale of false measurements at New Town Hall
The metal rod on the side of the old tower at New Town Hall is a reminder for those who would cheat at business. Near the entrance to New Town Hall, there…
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Rival ghosts haunt the House at the Golden Well
Old Town’s iconic House at the Golden Well is also home to legends of greed and murder. One of the most striking facades on the route from Charles Bridge to Old Town…
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A hooker and an angry Priest haunt Celetná Street
A truly odd couple roams Celetná Street near Old Town Square at night, oblivious to anyone else. Ladies of the night have always flocked to busy market areas and touristy spots, at…
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Edward Kelley and his Bohemian adventures
British alchemist Edward Kelley went from highs to lows to a premature death in the Rudolfine era. When it comes to alchemists in Bohemia working under Rudolf II, two names stand out:…
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Alchemist and seer John Dee languishes in Bohemia
John Dee was once an adviser to Queen Elizabeth I, but he saw his fortunes decline in Prague. The scholarly John Dee will likely always be remembered for getting caught up with…
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Prague was founded by Libuše, a pagan princess
A visionary woman named Libuše saw the future of the Czech capital. Like many old cities, the origins of Prague are a bit mysterious. A popular legend says the city was founded…
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Cursed trios reside on the facades of three Prague houses
Building names hold clues to some gruesome tales about unfortunate trios of people. Older buildings in Prague are known not by their numbers but by distinctive names, and corresponding pictures are often…
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The fortuneteller of the Golden Lane
Madame de Thebes read cards at Prague Castle’s Golden Lane but fell afoul of the Gestapo. One of the big attractions of Prague Castle is the Golden Lane. Legends claim it was…
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The Devil’s Column is due to a diabolical bet
Some see a broken stone pillar as evidence that a demon named Zardan visited Prague. The history of Vyšehrad goes back to the very foundation of Prague, and the walled fortress-like area…
