Prague Czech Republic Video

Local Myths and Legends of Prague Czech Republic

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is rich in history and folklore. Throughout the centuries, the city has been the birthplace of numerous myths and legends that have captivated the imaginations of locals and visitors alike. From ghostly apparitions to hidden treasures, Prague’s myths and legends add an air of mystery to its already enchanting atmosphere. In this article, we will explore ten fascinating tales that have become an integral part of Prague’s cultural heritage.

The Astronomical Clock: The Legend of Master Hanuš

• Legend: According to the legend, Master Hanuš was the mastermind behind the construction of Prague’s Astronomical Clock in the 15th century. However, out of fear that Hanuš would create a similar masterpiece elsewhere, the city councillors decided to blind him.

Master Hanuš, blinded but not defeated, sought revenge by damaging the clock. He threw himself into the mechanism, causing it to malfunction for many years. It was only after his death that the clock was repaired and restored to its former glory.

• Keywords: Astronomical Clock, Master Hanuš, legend, revenge, mechanism

The Golem of Prague

• Legend: The Golem of Prague is a legendary creature made of clay and brought to life by Rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel in the 16th century. The Golem was created to protect the Jewish community from persecution.

According to the legend, the Golem grew more powerful and uncontrollable over time. To prevent further chaos, Rabbi Loew removed the Hebrew letter “aleph” from the creature’s forehead, deactivating it. The Golem was then stored in the attic of the Old-New Synagogue, where it remains to this day, awaiting its reawakening in times of great need.

• Keywords: Golem, Prague, Rabbi Judah Loew, clay, protection, Old-New Synagogue

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The Devil’s Bible

• Legend: The Devil’s Bible, also known as the Codex Gigas, is a massive medieval manuscript housed in the National Library of Sweden. According to legend, it was written by a monk who made a pact with the devil to complete it in a single night.

In exchange for his soul, the monk received supernatural assistance and completed the manuscript. However, as he finished the last page, he added a portrait of the devil himself. The Codex Gigas is said to be cursed, bringing misfortune to anyone who possesses it.

• Keywords: Devil’s Bible, Codex Gigas, manuscript, monk, curse, National Library of Sweden

The Legend of the Vyšehrad Castle

• Legend: The Vyšehrad Castle, located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River, is associated with the legend of Princess Libuše. According to the tale, Libuše was a prophetess and the founder of Prague.

The legend states that Libuše stood on the hill and foresaw the future greatness of Prague. She predicted that a city would be built at the spot where she saw a man plowing a threshold. This prophecy came true, and Prague was established. The Vyšehrad Castle stands as a testament to Libuše’s vision.

• Keywords: Vyšehrad Castle, Princess Libuše, prophecy, Prague, Vltava River

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The Legend of the Charles Bridge

• Legend: The Charles Bridge, one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks, is steeped in legend. According to one tale, the bridge’s construction required a special ingredient: eggs.

The master builder, worried about the bridge’s stability, made a deal with a local egg merchant. The merchant promised to add eggs to the mortar mixture, making it stronger. However, the builder tricked the merchant and used only egg yolks instead of whole eggs. The bridge still stands strong today, a testament to the ingenious builder.

• Keywords: Charles Bridge, legend, construction, eggs, master builder

The Dancing House: The Ghost of Fred and Ginger

• Legend: The Dancing House, a modern architectural marvel, has a ghostly tale associated with it. The building’s unique design, resembling a couple in a dance, has led to its nickname, “Fred and Ginger.”

According to legend, the ghost of the famous dancer Fred Astaire haunts the building, often seen dancing with his partner, Ginger Rogers. Witnesses claim to have seen the spectral duo twirling and waltzing through the halls of the Dancing House, adding a touch of the supernatural to its artistic allure.

• Keywords: Dancing House, Fred and Ginger, ghost, legend, dance, Fred Astaire

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The Vltava River: The Legend of the Water Sprite

• Legend: The Vltava River, flowing through Prague, is said to be home to a mischievous water sprite known as Vodník.

According to legend, Vodník would lure unsuspecting victims into the river, pulling them under the water’s surface. He would then keep their souls trapped in his underwater kingdom forever. To appease the water sprite, locals would offer him gifts, such as bread and wine, to ensure safe passage along the river.

• Keywords: Vltava River, water sprite, Vodník, legend, souls, underwater kingdom

The Powder Tower: The Legend of the Alchemist

• Legend: The Powder Tower, a Gothic tower in Prague, is associated with the legend of an alchemist who sought to turn common metals into gold.

Legend has it that the alchemist made a deal with the devil himself to gain the secret knowledge of transmutation. However, the devil tricked the alchemist, and instead of transforming metals, he turned them into gunpowder. The explosion that followed destroyed the alchemist’s laboratory and left the tower with its name, the Powder Tower.

• Keywords: Powder Tower, alchemist, legend, metals, gold, transmutation

The Legend of the Prague Castle

• Legend: The Prague Castle, a magnificent fortress complex, is steeped in history and legend. One tale tells the story of a hidden treasure buried within the castle walls.

According to legend, the treasure can only be found by a pure-hearted individual. Many have searched for it, but only those with noble intentions can uncover its location. The legend adds an air of mystery and intrigue to the already awe-inspiring Prague Castle.

• Keywords: Prague Castle, legend, treasure, hidden, pure-hearted, fortress

Conclusion

Prague’s myths and legends weave a captivating tapestry of history, mystery, and folklore. From the Astronomical Clock to the Prague Castle, each tale adds depth and intrigue to the city’s cultural heritage. Whether you believe in these stories or not, exploring Prague’s local myths and legends is a fascinating journey into the mystical side of this enchanting city.

References

– nationalgeographic.com
– visitczechrepublic.com
– prague.eu