Prague Castle, Wenceslas Square, Charles Bridge…Prague is bursting with so many incredible landmarks they can easily fill a jam-packed two-week itinerary. But if Europe’s beer capital is one of your go-to city break destinations, you’re bound to get fed up of the highlights eventually – no matter how amazing they are. If you’re looking for something a bit more out there to liven up your next trip to Czechia’s capital, take a look at these 9 unusual things to see in Prague.
The most unusual things to see in Prague
Dancing House
Dancing House…or Drunken House?Originally nicknamed “Fred and Ginger” by its co-architect Frank Gehry, this seven storey building sits on a corner near the Vltava River, surrounded by imposing 17th and 18th century buildings. Although many admire its modern look, some locals have a different opinion, dubbing the structure “The Drunk House” as it reminds them of a booze-filled Saturday night along the river.
Where? Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Albino Peacocks
Definitely not your usual peacockPrague Zoo isn’t the only place in the city you can see beautiful wildlife. The charming baroque gardens tucked away inside the Wallenstein Palace grounds are home to ponds of giant koi carp, as well as peaceful albino peacocks. Note: The Wallenstein Gardens are only open from April until October.
Where? Wallenstein Gardens, Letenská 123/4, 118 00 Malá Strana
Brown Nosers
Would you climb the ladder?One of David Černý’s several controversial sculptures scattered across the city, Brown Nosers is actually an interactive, multi-media exhibit. Climb up the ladder, peer inside and you’ll see a video of two Czech politicians spoon feeding each other, accompanied by Queen’s “We Are the Champions”. Note: Entry is free – all you’ve got to do is press the buzzer on the giant door to get in.
Where? Inside the Futura Gallery, Holečkova 789/49, 150 00 Praha 5
Giant R2D2
Out the way, but worth a visit!A ventilation shaft for an underground bunker transformed into Star Wars fan art by unknown street artists. The robot has seen better days (there were once two concrete pieces on either side of the dome, a restraining bolt and no graffiti) but it’s still worth a look.
Where? Bělehradská 1097/48120 00 Praha 2-Vinohrady
Hanging Sigmund Freud
How’s it hanging?Dangling high above the streets of Prague’s Old Town is an impressive statue that will definitely make you do a double take. What looks like a death-defying stunt or possible suicide attempt is actually a Sigmund Freud statue, unveiled in 1996 by David Černý.
Where? Husova, 110 00 Staré Město
Peeing Statue
Careful not to get splashed!Among the unusual things to see in Prague is another example of David Černý’s work, there’s more to this statue than meets the eye. The figures are made of rippling bronze, with movable crotch sections that swivel as they pee. But the movement isn’t random – it’s been designed so each flow spells out Czech literary quotes. You can interrupt their writing by sending a text message to +420 724 370 770 and having them write your own message!
Where? Outside the Franz Kafka Museum, 2A Cihelná, 118 00
Narrowest Street in Prague
Wait for the green manMore of a staircase than a street, Vinárna Čertovka is so small that only one person at a time can walk through it. Hit the button at the entrance to the street and wait for the red man to turn green before squeezing your way through the 50cm-wide gap.
Where? Vinárna Čertovka, 24 U Lužického semináře
Never-Ending Book Spiral
Be careful not to fall in!A long-term art installation entitled “Idiom”, this incredible piece of work is designed to give you a feel for what it would be like falling through a never-ending tunnel of books, Alice in Wonderland-style. Of course, the tower isn’t really never-ending (clever mirror placement plays a big role) but the sensation does leave your head spinning.
Where? Prague Municipal Library, Mariánské nám. 98/1, 110 00 Staré Město
Franz Kafka’s Head
The movement symbolises the author’s mental tormentYet another David Černý masterpiece, Franz Kafka is one of Prague’s most celebrated authors who was tormented by depression and self-doubt throughout his life. This mirrored, moving sculpture twists and rotates, symbolic of the internal anguish he suffered. Definitely put this on your list of unusual things to see in Prague!
Where? 5 Charvátova, 110 00