Overlooking the rest of the city, Prague Castle is a huge tourist attraction, but it also houses two large churches, including St. Vitus, whose spires you see through the gate. It is also the seat of government, and a huge historical region.

The stained glass windows within St. Vitus are spectacular!. This is only a single example of a dozen or so magnificent windows. I am showing off only a few pictures from Prague Castle, because the light was failing. The days are short in late December.

Returning to the south side of the Vltava, we see the baroque and gothic structures and the winding streets of the Old Town Prague. This shot was actually taken from the South Tower of the Charles Bridge.

The heart of Old Town Prague is Old Town Square. You have seen it at night, among the wedding pictures. The heart of Old Town Square is the historic City Hall. Portions of this building date to the 14th century.

The Astronomical Clock, built into the Old City Hall, is the most recognizable symbol of the city of Prague. This clock, with its wandering characters on each hour, is much newer than the Old City Hall. The Clock was built in the 16th century.

During the Christmas and New Year holidays, Old Town Square is loaded with stands selling gifts, food and drink. The hot wine is really good in this weather, but the roast pig is more spectacular.

Finally, the "New" City Hall. This is not nearly as well known as the Old City Hall, but Ian and Ellen had to get their marriage license here. It is actually a masterpiece of Arte Neuveau. This building could have been in Paris.