traveldk.com

Grandson of an emperor and son of a Přemyslid princess, Charles could hardly help rising to both the Roman and Bohemian thrones in 1333. Prague became the seat of imperial power under his reign, as well as an archbishopric and the home of central Europe’s first university.

Looking for cool souvenirs to take back for the kids? Problem solved: a Charles University pullover. If it’s chilly out, you’ll want one for yourself as well.

The cellar rooms afford cosy candlelight dining. In warm weather, you can enjoy the fine French food in the courtyard.

With its threadbare furniture and oil lamps on every table, this café is made for rainy nights. In chilly weather, try their excellent mulled wine.

Streets fill with carp sellers and hedonists drinking mulled wine.

The Gothic towers of Týn loom over Old Town Square’s dainty houses. During the Counter-Reformation, the Jesuits melted down the gold Hussite chalice that stood between the towers and recast it as the Madonna seen today.

Opposite Bernini’s Ecstasy of St Teresa in the nave is the famed Infant Jesus of Prague. The wax baby doll is credited with miraculous powers. The resident Order of English Virgins look after the little man and change his clothes.

More popularly known as the Church of the Infant Jesus of Prague, Prague’s first Baroque church (1611) got its name – and its Catholic outlook – after the Battle of White Mountain. Visitors stream in to the church to see the miracle-working statue of the Christ Child.

The Gothic and Baroque interior here wins the award for Prague’s creepiest sanctuary. The church is best known for the legend of the mummified arm hanging above the door (see One-Armed Thief), but visitors should not miss the opportunity to take in one of the organ recitals held here.

The Baroque façade is awash with cherubim and scenes from the lives of saints Francis of Assisi, James and Antony of Padua. It’s an active house of worship, so gaze respectfully at the mummified arm hanging above the door inside.