Not From These Parts

June 17, 2019 (20/30)

Český Krumlov is considered the second largest tourist destination in the Czech Republic, after Prague. It is a small fairy tale town that almost seems fake. Charming would be an understatement. While around 14,000 people actually live in the town, nearly 800,000 tourists visit annually. Most visitors are bussed in for the day, and leave before dusk, as the small town is only a few hours from Prague. Because we spent a few days in Český, we were able to see the town in both the day and night, which was quite the contrast.

One of the biggest differences we have noticed is the abundance of Asian tourists in the Czech Republic as compared to other European destinations. Our teacher told us that Prague now has as many Asian tourists annually as cities like London and Paris. This is believed to be a result of a new direct flight. We have even had multiple tour guides refer to certain areas of town or monuments as “Beijing”…

This photo was taken at the Český Krumlov castle. The little boy was very fed up with his parents taking so many photos and began to have a melt down.

The Nocturnalist

June 16, 2019 (19/30)

Prague does not lack in terms of night life. Whether you prefer an indie bar like Anonymous, where waiters wear masks and play with fire, or are drawn to the five story club, with a different theme on every level, Prague has got you covered. If you stay out long enough, or wake up early enough, you can even see those staggering home from the bars/clubs at a mere 6 a.m. (not me Mom ;)).

The Czechs like their alcohol and enjoy having a good time. In fact, they consume more beer than any other country in the world. They are also very passionate about their many native liquors like Becherovka, which they sometimes consider as “medicine.” If you walk anywhere near the city center of Prague, you will undoubtedly see an advertisement for a store selling Absinthe (illegal in many countries)… steer very clear from that.

This photo was taken during a night out with some friends visiting one weekend. They were anxious to try one of Prague’s most famous pub crawls. I love all the vibrant lights and colors in this photo that highlight the blurred silhouettes of the dancers. It really represents the whirlwind of a night out on the town in Prague.

As I sat at a booth I couldn’t help but notice this crew dancing their hearts out – arms and legs flailing. They seemed to be the living embodiment of the phrase “dance like no one’s watching.” What they lacked in dance moves they made up for in spirit.

Not From These Parts

June 15, 2019 (18/30)

As I walked the streets of Český Krumlov on our last evening, I came across this family sitting together. Český Krumlov becomes an entirely different town as dusk draws in. The crowds of tourists who are bussed in for the day vanish, and the once busy cobblestone streets grow space. Instead of the hum of hundreds of voices, one can hear the crackling Vltava river down below. I prefer Česky in the evenings.

I love this photo because I think it is a genuine and telling reflection of this family. I could hear them speaking English, but could not identify their accent. It was clear that they were visitors to this small town. The family sat together on a bench and seemed rather somber and exhausted, in no rush whatsoever. Perhaps they had missed their bus and didn’t have a place to go. Or perhaps they were lost or just taking a moment for themselves. Regardless, I liked how their expressions are matching – almost as if they are the same person.

I think this photo tells a lot about the family’s relationship with one another. They are clearly a close and comfortable family. Comfortable enough to be leaning on each other, sitting closely on one bench. They don’t need the silence to be filled with conversation. They would rather sit in peace together and marvel at the fairytale town that is Český Krumlov.

Location Notation

June 14, 2019 (17/30)

This photo was taken on the bridge of the Český Krumlov castle. The castle was first mentioned in historical documents dating back to 1240/42, meaning the castle is at least 779 years old. As opposed to the rather basic design of the Zvíkov Castle, this castle was much, much more ornate. Throughout the buildings history, it has been designed/decorated as Baroque, Renaissance, and Rococo styles. It was very interesting to see the differences in these styles. Some rooms reflected how they would have looked in dramatic Baroque style, while others represented colorful Rococo style. We also learned some of the history of the noble families who once owned this castle, which I found to be the most interesting aspect of this tour. The castle was owned by three noble families before it was seized by the state in the mid 1900’s. It is still owned by the government today.  

As I was reviewing my photos from the day, I was pleasantly surprised to come across this one. Not only does it highlight the beautiful rolling hills and endless views of Český Krumlov, but it also shows some of the stunning ancient artwork. The women’s facial expression is one that I keep finding myself making. Walking around, head up, marveling at all the sights.

Architecturally Speaking

June 13, 2019 (16/30)

This photo was taken at the Zvíkov Castle on our way to Český Krumlov. Dennis really likes this castle because it isn’t as crowded or touristy as others, probably because it isn’t in a major town. One of my favorite things about this program is that we have been given the opportunity to see and learn things that we probably wouldn’t otherwise. I found the castle to be extremely beautiful and well-restored. It was perched upon a hill overlooking a winding lake with thousands of towering trees. Inside the castle were many stunning archways and various artifacts like pots for cooking, and ancient furniture. The castle was first constructed around 1230 (it was mentioned in writing for the first time in 1234). It took me a while to really let that sink in. 785 years ago.

I liked this photo because the elderly women appears so, so small in comparison to the stone tower and wall behind her, which does not totally fit in the frame. She walks in the sun, just outside of the large shadow the tower casts next to her. I appreciated the contrast. Light versus dark. Present life versus history.

A Thousand Words

June 12, 2019 (15/30)

When resistance forces assassinated Nazi leader Reinhard Heydrich in Prague,
all hell broke loose in the Czech Republic. Thousands of houses were searched
in Prague, and many were randomly killed in the streets, in hopes of instilling
fear. As weeks went on with no one to hold accountable, Hitler grew impatient
and ordered the small, and completely innocent town of Lidice
to be wiped off the map – in order to send a message to the Czechs. The message
was clear: resistance would not be tolerated and there would be no mercy.

The town of Lidice was home to hundreds of men women and children. It was
considered to be a charming, quaint town. Within days the town was bombed and
burned to dust. The men were shot and the women sent to concentration camps.
Eight children were salvaged and put up for adoption while the rest were sent
to a concentration camp – they were gassed to death on the way there. Any
living animal, including the dogs, were killed as well.

As if that wasn’t enough, Nazi forces went as far as to destroy old graves
and tear trees out of the ground. They wanted absolutely nothing to be left of
this town. And why? Lidice was completely innocent, it was just an easy target,
a way of sending a message.

One thing that really stood out to me was when our guide, a young Czech
woman, said that if General Heydrich had not been assassinated, she nor her
family, would not be here today. Czech people would be speaking German and
Czech culture would not exist. She argued that as terrible as the aftermath
was, the assassination was a crucial factor in Czech history, and is the reason
things are the way they are, today.

This photo was taken at the Lidice memorial. I believe it really symbolizes
just how full-circle things are becoming. Had the assassination not happened,
these young children (pictured signing the guest book at the memorial) would
not be here today. They would not be learning about their history or
remembering the brave stories of the courageous soldiers. They are able to live
the life they do today because of what happened. As sad and unjust as their
history is, the Czech nation is what it is today as a result.

 

Location Notation

June 11, 2019 (14/30)

Shortly after the tragedy that occurred at Lidice, the men responsible for
the assassination of General Heydrich were discovered. A fellow paratrooper had
given them up in order to save himself. They had been hiding in the crypt of
Sts Cyril and Methodius Church. Although the paratroopers were surrounded and
outnumbered by Nazi soldiers, they put up a fight and never surrendered, even
when given the opportunity. Ultimately, the paratroopers turned their guns on
themselves rather than surrender or become prisoners to the Nazis. They died
proud Czech soldiers and their stories are still remembered today.

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Standing in the cold, damp darkness of the crypt sent a shiver down my
spine. I can’t imagine what these soldiers went through for weeks. After
visiting the Church and crypt, I left feeling overwhelmed with emotion. It was
so moving to hear these stories. They are filled with sadness, courage, and
patriotism.

As we left the tour we were given the opportunity to see the “window” of the
crypt from the street view. The bullet holes left in the stone wall can still
clearly be seen. I liked this photograph because it shows a glimpse of the
terrible tragedy that occurred while also highlighting the contrast of current
daily life.

Weekend Miser

June 10, 2019 (13/30)

This photo was taken on the street near the Můstek metro station. As I emerged from a store, I was greeted with the sounds of hundreds of people talking, car horns honking, street vendors haggling, and babies fussing. As I continued down the street, I began to hear a beautiful melody rise above the typical noises of the street. Soon I discovered a young girl, just around my own age, sitting in the middle of the street plucking her harp. Her soft acoustic music had drawn a successful crowd, which is impressive here in Prague.

My first initial reaction was to not take a photo. In fact, I almost became so mesmerized by the beautiful harmonies that I nearly forgot about my photographic duties. I stood and watched for a while as her fingers quickly danced across the strings. I’m not sure if I have seen anyone play the harp in person before, but it was quite interesting to watch. She appeared extremely focused and rarely looked up from her instrument to address the crowd. More and more people joined me as she continued to play. I love all the street performers and musicians here. I could spend an entire afternoon watching and listening to their unique talents under the warm Czech sun.

June 9, 2019 (12/30)

Morning Glories

This photograph was taken in the metro on another bustling morning. The metro has become one of my favorite experiences in Prague. It is an extremely effective way to get across town. I keep thinking how useful this infrastructure would be in Austin. Can you imagine getting to South Austin from Campus in only a few stops? Sounds a lot better than sitting on MoPac South for 45 minutes. In my experience, the metro has always been an exciting place. Quickly descending down the escalator, hair blowing every which way, overhearing many different languages, the thrill of jumping onto a metro car right as the doors close.

Throughout the swarms of people, I was able to capture this adorable train of children getting off one of the metro cars. The class was led by two teachers who frantically tried to watch over all of them (it looked like herding cats), which proved to be a very daunting task. The school children held hands and wore matching vests – it was quite cute. I liked this photo because I feel it accurately portrays the happiness and eagerness of the school children. I also appreciate how the liveliness of the children’s neon vest contrasts nicely with the bland background of the metro.

June 8, 2019 (11/30)

Architecturally Speaking

This photo was taken at the Franz Kafka statue. While I did not know much about Kafka prior to coming to Prague, he can’t be missed here. Kafka was a native Czech author, born in Prague. His most famous work, Metamorphosis, is a story of magical realism that is considered one of the greatest books of the 20^th century. After exploring Prague and seeing the many statues, posters, memorabilia, and museum for Kafka, I couldn’t help but begin reading the book (very interesting so far). I am excited to visit the museum and statues again when I finish the book with my newfound appreciation.

This Kafka statue is quite modern compared to others. It is 11 meters high and composed of 42 mirrored moving panels. When the panels align, they form the face of Kafka. The statue was installed in 2014. Czech sculptor, David Černý, created the piece entitled Metalmorphasis. I like this photo because it highlights the scale of the sculpture. The construction worker appears extremely small in comparison to the large metal panels. The entirety of the sculpture cannot fit into the frame. I also like how I was able to capture the moment the worker looked directly at the camera so that viewers are able to see his expression.