Praha Czechoslovak State Railways Poster – Vintage Prague Travel Wall Art – c1935
Situated on the Vltava River, the beautiful city of Prague is not only the capital and the largest city of the Czech republic, it was also the historical capital of Bohemia. Our reproduction print of this original Praha Czechoslovak State Railways Poster perfectly captures the essence of the city. The warm, golden glow of eventide even reinforces the city’s nickname as “The Golden City”. The monicker was given to the city during the reign of the Czech King and Holy Roman Emperor, Charles IV, when the towers of Prague Castle were covered in gold.
Although the poster bears no signature, the artistic style is very reminiscent of other Czech posters by the artist Alois Salac who regularly produced poster designs for the Czechoslovak State Railways in the late 1920 and early 1930s. Whoever was responsible for the artwork on this vintage Pragha poster has successfully transported us to the left bank of the Vltava river offering us a view alongside the Charles Bridge and out towards Prague Old Town.
On the left-hand side of the poster at the far end of the bridge stands the majestic Old Town Bridge Tower. The tower, known as Staroměstská mostecká věž in Czech, stands as a remarkable example of Gothic architecture and serves as a majestic gateway to Prague’s Old Town, complementing the iconic Charles Bridge. This awe-inspiring structure was brought to life in the mid-14th century under the patronage of Emperor Charles IV, who entrusted the brilliant architect Petr Parléř with its design.
The tower holds historical significance beyond its architectural splendor. It was strategically conceived as a symbolic victory arch, signifying the triumphant path that Czech kings traversed during their coronation processions, an event of great importance in the country’s history. As such, the Old Town Bridge Tower stands not only as an imposing edifice but also as a representation of the nation’s regal heritage.
As the tower majestically guards one end of the world-famous Charles Bridge, its presence adds to the allure and grandeur of Prague’s historical cityscape. The tower’s construction began in conjunction with the laying of the foundation stone for the Karlův most in 1357, as per Emperor Charles IV’s vision to leave a lasting legacy that would stand the test of time.
Along the banks of the Vltava River, to the right of the tower, stands the majestic Staroměstská vodárna, the city’s Old Town Waterworks. It is an architectural marvel that beckons visitors to explore its rich history. The story of Prague’s water supply traces back to the 15th century when the city began harnessing the river’s flow, using ingenious wooden waterworks and lead pipes.
Among the first waterworks to serve the Old Town was Staroměstská, erected in 1489. Throughout its existence, it endured the ravages of 14 fires and wars, bearing the scars of its resilience. In 1883, the waterworks underwent a transformation, taking on a striking Neo-Renaissance design, adorned with captivating Neo-Gothic paneling, all crafted under the visionary architect Antonín Wiehl.
Over the years, the Old Town Waterworks has witnessed a shift in its purpose. In 1913, with the inauguration of the modern Káraný water plant, it ceased its role in supplying water to the Old Town (Staré Město). Today, the structure that once quenched the city’s thirst has found a new identity as the Bedřich Smetana Museum. Inside its walls, a fascinating collection pays homage to Bedřich Smetana, the esteemed 19th-century composer, affectionately referred to as the father of Czech music.
This vintage Praha poster was originally produced and published in 1928 by the “CSD” better known as the Czechoslavak State Railways. Copies of the image used in newspaper and magazine adverts were accompanied by the following text: Visit the Republic of Czechoslavakia, a country of extraordinary natural beauty with remarkable art monuments and numerous health resorts and natural springs enjoying a worldwide reputation.
Direct railway connections with foreign countries; accommodation and living at low prices in all parts of the Republic.
Information and railway tickets to be obtained at all Travel Agencies
The legend of Knight Bruncvik and the Sword of Bruncvik
According to Czech legend Bruncvik was a magnificent hero. Knight Bruncvik, also known as Bruncvík or Bruncwík, is a legendary figure in Czech folklore and medieval poetry. He is an iconic knight who embodies bravery, chivalry, and adventure. While Knight Bruncvik is not a historical figure, he holds great importance in Czech culture and is considered a symbol of national identity and heroism.
The legend of Knight Bruncvik has been passed down through generations, and several versions of the story exist. In the tale, Bruncvik sets out on a quest to become a renowned knight and travels to distant lands, facing various challenges and adversaries along the way. He acquires a magical sword and shield that help him defeat mythical beasts and rescue captives, including a lion and a princess.
One of the most famous parts of the legend is when Knight Bruncvik sets sail to the distant island of Buyan, where he confronts a dragon. After a fierce battle, Bruncvik defeats the dragon and gains the dragon’s head as a trophy, which he brings back to Prague as a symbol of his bravery.
Knight Bruncvik’s adventures and noble deeds have made him a beloved character in Czech culture, symbolizing the ideals of courage, honor, and gallantry. He represents the spirit of Czech heroism and has become a part of national folklore, inspiring numerous literary works, poems, and artworks over the centuries.
While Knight Bruncvik is not a historical figure, his legend has contributed to the rich tapestry of Czech cultural heritage, and he remains an important and cherished character in the country’s folklore and collective imagination. The statue of the knight Bruncvík is located on the Lesser Town pillar of Charles Bridge. It is a bollard that determines that this part of the Vltava belongs to the citizens of the Old Town. The Czech Republic’s seal has the lion from the legend on it.
