If you’ve been reading this blog, you probably know that we’re covering UnTours regions on a monthly basis. And, as today is the 1st of May, we’re starting a new region: Eastern Europe, which, for the purposes of this month’s blog, is comprised of Prague and Budapest.
And, if you’ve been reading this blog, you probably know this about me: I love funiculars. So, any guesses as to what this post will be about? You’re absolutely right – the Petrin funicular in Prague.
The funicular, which opened originally in 1891, connects the Mala Strana district to the top of Petrin Hill, an area filled with parks and wonderful green areas. In addition to the calming natural scene, you can also find some other great sights on Petrin, including the Mirror Labyrinth, Stefanik’s Observatory and the Lookout Tower, inspired by the Eiffel Tower but just 1/5 its size.
Climbing about .3 miles, making 3 stops (Ujezd, Nbozizek, Petrin) and running 2 cars holding 100 passengers each, the funicular is a fun, economical way to see some of the city’s highlights. Along its way from Ujezd (at the bottom of Petrin Hill) to Nbozizek (the middle stop), you’ll see beautiful views of the city, including a gorgeous vista of Prague Castle. You’ll also pass through the Hunger Wall, built around 1362(!), and has been fortified and repaired several times since its construction. According to tradition, this wall was built as a way to employ the city’s poor during the time of a terrible famine – those working on the project were given food for themselves and their families. There are other stories about the construction of this wall, but this one just feels good, doesn’t it?
Regardless of how you feel about slow-jamming the news, if you love slow travel, then the Prague funicular is perfect for you.
Have you taken the Prague funicular?