Prague Castle has been a symbol of power, religion, and culture for over a millennium. As one of the most significant landmarks in Prague, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city. Unlocking the secrets of this magnificent castle requires exploring its rich history and architectural wonders.
The castle’s origins date back to the 9th century when it was built as a wooden fort by Prince Bořivoj of the Premyslid dynasty. Over time, it evolved into a grand palace complex that served as the seat of power for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman emperors, and Czech presidents. The castle’s strategic location on a hill above the Vltava River made it an ideal spot for defense and surveillance.
Today, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, covering over 750,000 square meters. It comprises several palaces, churches, gardens, and fortifications that showcase a variety of architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic to Baroque. The most prominent buildings within the complex include St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.
St. Vitus Cathedral is the crown jewel of Prague Castle. This magnificent Gothic cathedral took over 600 years to complete and features intricate stained-glass windows, colorful mosaics, and a soaring vaulted ceiling. The cathedral also houses the remains of Bohemian kings, saints, and national heroes, including St. Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech Republic.
The Old Royal Palace is another must-see attraction within Prague Castle. This Renaissance palace was built in the 16th century for Emperor Rudolf II and served as the seat of power for Bohemian kings until the end of the 19th century. The palace’s highlights include the Vladislav Hall, a grand banqueting hall with a vaulted ceiling, and the Royal Apartments, which feature ornate tapestries, frescoes, and furnishings.
The Golden Lane is a charming street of colorful houses that date back to the 16th century. This street was originally built for imperial gunmen but later became home to goldsmiths, hence its name. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to medieval armor and weapons, as well as a souvenir shop selling handmade crafts and trinkets.
Apart from the main attractions, Prague Castle also offers visitors several other interesting sites to explore, such as the Royal Garden, the Ball Game Hall, and the Daliborka Tower. The Royal Garden is a peaceful oasis within the castle complex that features ornamental ponds, fountains, and sculptures. The Ball Game Hall is an indoor tennis court built in the 16th century for Emperor Ferdinand II, while the Daliborka Tower is a former prison that now houses a museum dedicated to medieval torture devices.
New travel stories to tell tomorrow, see you later.
Mary