Destiny & I had a fun day yesterday. We ended up spending all morning and afternoon in the Jewish Quarter of the city. We went to six different sites that comprise the Jewish History "Museum." Several of them are synagogues that now function as museums chronicling the history of the Jewish community in Prague.
The thing that was the most incredible was a display of children's artwork from the Terezin ghetto. Terezin is northwest of Prague and was a "holding place" for Jews before they were sent off to concentration camps (primairly Auchowitz). Terezin became almost a "model" ghetto and was exploited by the Nazis and used for propaganda showing how "well" they were taking care of the Jews. Terezin was home to many very talented Jewish musicians, artists and intellectuals. In order to put on their false front, the Nazis eventually permitted schooling, art, and theatre to take place within the ghetto. We saw a display of the artwork children in the ghetto had done and it was incredible.
We also walked through the Old Jewish cemetery. From 1439 to 1787 it was the only burial ground in the cities allowed for Jews. Because they did not believe in moving the dead, bodies were simply buried on top of each other resulting in a mound. There are over 12,000 tombstones in this area.
Our last stop was Old Town Square where we saw the Astronomical Clock and St. Nicholas Church. After a full day we crossed back over the Charles Bridge and settled in for a relaxing evening of ice cream and watching Friends. Unfortunately, a migraine descended upon me so I went to sleep at about 7:00 pm. I am very grateful that I am feeling better this morning.
Tonight we take a night train to Budapest and will leave Prague about 10 pm. Hungary, anyone?
1 comment:
Hi Joy and Destiny,
"Czeching" out your blog has been fun - thanks for the updates of your travels. Did you sleep on the night train? How many hours was that trip? Praying for your safety, Love Mom
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