Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The LiTTLe
QuarTer
Malá Strana
This charming neighborhood, huddled under the castle on the
west bank of the river, is low on blockbuster sights but high on
ambience. The most enjoyable approach from the Old Town is
across Charles Bridge. From the end of the bridge (TI in tower),
Mostecká street leads two blocks up to the Little Quarter Square
(Malostranské Náměstí) and the huge Church of St. Nicholas. But
before you head up there, consider a detour to Kampa Island (all
described in this chapter).
Between Charles Bridge and
Little Quarter Square
Kampa Island
One hundred yards before the castle end of the Charles Bridge,
stairs on the left lead down to the main square of Kampa Island
(mostly created from the rubble
of the Little Quarter, which was
destroyed in a 1540 fire). The
island features relaxing pubs, a
breezy park, hippies, lovers, a fine
contemporary art gallery, and river
access. From the main square,
Hroznová lane (on the r ight)
leads to a bridge. Behind the old
mill wheel, notice the high-water
marks from the flood of 2002. The water wheel is the last survivor
of many that once lined the canal here. Each mill once had its own
protective water spirit
(vodník)
. Today, only one wheel—and one
spirit (Mr. Kabourek)—remains.
• Fifty yards beyond the bridge (on the right, under the trees) is the...
