The Prague Castle and Its Treasures

Rating:
Summary: A PICTORIAL ODE TO PRAGUE
Review: One of the world's most beautiful cities is exquisitely represented in this splendid volume.

Beginning with a breathtaking twilight washed view of the towered city, each succeeding photograph reveals anopther extraordinary work of art within the Hrad or Prague Castle.

Its age of glory began in the early 14th century, with the first building dating back to the second half of the 9th century. Today it beguiles the eye in all its Baroque splendor.

Rating:
Summary: A PICTORIAL ODE TO PRAGUE
Review: One of the world's most beautiful cities is exquisitely represented in this splendid volume.

Beginning with a breathtaking twilight washed view of the towered city, each succeeding photograph reveals anopther extraordinary work of art within the Hrad or Prague Castle.

Its age of glory began in the early 14th century, with the first building dating back to the second half of the 9th century. Today it beguiles the eye in all its Baroque splendor.

Rating:
Summary: Beautiful, informative book for research or souvenir
Review: Prague has always been one of the most beautiful and interesting -- as well as historically significant -- cities of Central Europe. Even forty-odd years of Communist domination weren't able to destroy that. This worthwhile book, published in 1994, focuses on perhaps the brightest jewel of that bright city, the Prague Castle.

Karl Schwarzenberg, editor of this title, is a former intimate advisor to Václav Havel and scion of a noble Austro-Bohemian family that is itself interesting and historically-significant. He has assembled a fine collection of art, photography, and narrative into a book that will satisfy people seeking a souvenir of their visit to Prague as well as historically-minded readers looking for a window into Czech history or medieval and early modern art and culture. The castle itself is thoroughly catalogued, from its ancient foundations to the modern, stylish, and unpretentious office of the president of the Czech Republic. St. Vitus's Cathedral, next door, is also covered, as are various squares, chapels, and the collection of the National Gallery at the nearby St. George's Convent.

In all, this book gives the reader much to admire and enjoy. I've never been to Prague, but it's definitely high up on my list of places I want to see. Until then, this book will be both diversion and further incentive.