Prague Day 2 - Cemeteries and Cathedrals

Elaine and T at Vysehrad

View from Vysehrad

View of the river.

Kunta Hora ossary

Bone Chandler

Today's post by Teresa and photos by Elaine

After mastering the metro system, we start our day by heading down to a large urban park (the Vysehrad). This is actually an old fortress on the banks of the Vlata |(sp?) river. We had a great view of the river and could watch the marathon below. This is an annual international event which shutdown most of old town and beyond.
The Vyshehrad contains a Gothic cellar housing several old artifacts, a beautiful cathedral and a large ornate cemetery. Famous composer Anton Dvorak has is buried here. The park in all is a very scenic an beautiful spot. A good way to start the day.
From here we head to Republic square and catch a tour to Kutna Hora. This is a city located about an hour and a half outside of Prague, which was established based on silver mining. We start out at the Bone Church (Ossary), which is decorated almost entirely with human bones. It is delightfully creepy, including a bone chandelier, 6 bone pyramids, and a rather detailed coat of arms. It is said to be the bones of over 40000 people.
Next stop was the Cathedral of St. Barbara, who is the patron saint of mining. This cathedral is amazing, with it's foundations starting in 1380's. The design is from the same architect who did Prague castle St. Vitus Cathedral and is the outside is a reminiscent gothic style. The interior is mainly Baroque, with a large confessional that just makes you want to repent. There is a mining theme throughout.
We then went to the Italian courtyard. This building was developed as the Royal Mint, and the courtyard is reminiscent of Italian design as it was them who taught the Czechs to mint coins. The interior is dedicated to the metalsmith process, however there is a surprisingly decorative private chappel dedicated to St. Wencelas (important king), and is still used publicly on his national holiday. There is a trpitic of alters within, and handpainted walls and ceilings..
The trip back from Kutna Hora took us through some lovely countryside. We got back around 6pm, and decided to get in an hour of power shopping. However, we we pleasantly surprised that the stores were all open until 9pm, so we took full advantage.
This excursion was followed by a metro trip to Sherwood restaurant, where we experienced yet another exceptional Czech meal. I had the Wallachovian sour soup, which is essentially pototo soup with sour kraut and sausage. It was unbelievable. Elaine had 1/2 duck, which was 3/4 too much. Evelyn had Tandoori chicken and mouthwatering potato pancakes.
We got back to our room at what we thought was about 10:30 but was really midnight - the witching hour. We are exhausted. This is day 2 being an honorary Ong sister, and happy to say no catfighting to speak of and only minimal hair pulling.