Written by Vanessa Levins, (American University), Student Correspondent for CET Film Production at FAMU, Fall 2025
Three days after arriving in Prague, the CET staff promised us an exciting surprise for Sunday’s orientation—the only information given to us being the advice to wear good walking shoes. If I’m being honest, I first reacted to the nine hours of orientation planned in my calendar with reluctance. However, soon my hesitation was replaced with excitement as I realized the surprise entailed a day-long scavenger hunt around the city. Divided into random small groups, we embarked on a competitive mission to discover some of the many gems scattered around the city we would call home for the next four months.
Astronomical Clock
What would a scavenger hunt of Prague be without the world-famous Astronomical Clock, standing tall in Old Town Square? The beautiful historic clock remains one of the most popular sights in all of Prague—and for good reason. Immediately, I noticed the vibrant colors and intricate designs adorning the clock face. Unfortunately, we were too eager to continue the competition, and we missed the hourly “Walk of the Apostles,” but I’ve been back since then to take in the show.
Kafka Head
Next on our hunt, we stopped at the revolving head of Franz Kafka, the Prague-native and renowned writer, situated outside the Quadria shopping mall. The complex structure and the reflective steel of the statue give it a formidable presence that emphasizes the importance of Kafka to Czech culture and history. This was the first of many of David Černý’s public art displays that my group and I encountered around Prague during our mission.
One of our tasks throughout the scavenger hunt was to uncover as many public displays of David Ĉerný’s work as possible. Thankfully, they grace almost every corner of the city. “The Hanging Man”, a statue displaying Sigmund Freud hanging from a pole in the streets of Old Town, demonstrates the often provocative and impactful nature of Černý’s art. The installation, “Three Women on a House,” follows a similar pattern, utilizing abstract images to create an artistic statement.
Animal Spottings
Arguably, my favorite aspect of the scavenger hunt and a moment that left me awestruck was our visit to Vojanovy Sady, where wild peacocks lounge in the sunlight among the apple trees. I had never seen a peacock in the wild before, so the ability to come face to face with peacocks and sit in the grass as they frolicked about was truly an amazing experience. I absolutely found my new favorite spot in Prague the second I spotted my first peacock.
In Kampa Park, when looking out into the Vltava river, you cannot miss the row of thirty-four yellow penguins lined against the riverbank. An art installation made entirely of repurposed plastic, the Yellow Penguins serve to call attention to the importance of environmental and conservation efforts. As we approached the penguins to take a photo with them, I appreciated the vibrant addition to the landscape of Prague and the message that they prompt for observers.
Although I loved finding a new statue or location to check off on our scavenger hunt list, I think my favorite aspect of the day was simply wandering throughout the city, observing the beautiful, colorful architecture that paints the city. The cobblestone streets and pastel buildings among the various green spaces coalesce into the most picturesque scene that does not fail to amaze me.
Lennon Wall
Our final stop on the scavenger hunt was the iconic Lennon Wall in Prague 1, a chaotic collection of graffiti including personal messages and artistic and political expressions. Not only does the Wall possess a rich history of demonstrations of free expression, but it also serves as a point of connection between residents and visitors alike in the city of Prague. As we observed the overlapping messages and drawings, I felt a deep connection to the city and its people.
Charles Bridge
As time ran out, we concluded our scavenger hunt, gathered with the other groups, and boarded a restaurant river boat. We ate delicious Czech cuisine and chatted with friends as we cruised around the city on the Vltava River. As we passed under the famous Charles Bridge and overlooked the city on the boat’s rooftop, the CET staff announced the scavenger hunt winners.
My team posed for a group photo as they announced our second-place position. Although we had not come in first, I have to say, I felt quite like a winner, having spent a fulfilling day exploring the beautiful and dynamic city.