The Prague Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting the Czech Republic. Located in the heart of the city, the castle is the largest ancient castle in the world and one of the most impressive palaces in Europe. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, take a tour of the interior and marvel at the architecture, visit the galleries and museums, and even take a boat ride along the Vltava River.
The castle is also home to several important institutions and churches, including St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace. With its breathtaking views, fascinating history, and abundance of cultural attractions, the Prague Castle is an unforgettable experience and is a unique and fascinating place to explore and admire.
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Brief History of the Prague Castle
The Castle of Prague has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 9th century. It was originally founded by Prince Bořivoj of the Czech tribe of the Premyslid dynasty in 880 AD. The castle was built on a hill overlooking the Vlava River and it served as the sea of power for the Premyslid rulers for centuries.
In 1320, the castle was the site of a royal coronation ceremony for the first King of Bohemia, John of Luxembourg. During this time, the castle underwent extensive rebuilding and was significantly enlarged. The castle was also a popular destination for pilgrims, as it was believed that it was the resting place of the remains of St. Wenceslas.
In 1483, the castle was the site of the signing of the Peace of Kutná Hora, which ended the Hussite Wars and ended the religious conflict between the Catholic Church and the followers of Jan Hus. In the 16th century, the castle was the home of the Habsburg rulers of the Holy Roman Empire. During this time, the castle underwent further rebuilding and expansion. It was also during this time that the famed Prague Castle Guard was founded and stationed at the castle.
In 1618, the castle was the site of the famous Defenestration of Prague, in which two Catholic officials were thrown out of a window and survived. This event was the beginning of the Thirty Years' War. In 1784, the castle was the site of the coronation of Emperor Joseph II of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In 1918, the castle was occupied by the newly formed Czechoslovak Republic, and it has served as the official residence of the Czech President since then.
Today, the castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague, and it is a symbol of Czech history and culture.
Enjoy the magic of the castle
The Prague Castle is a spectacular sight to behold. The castle walls and towers have been constructed from sandstone and the interior is decorated with colorful frescoes and sculptures. Visitors to the castle can explore its many galleries, courtyards and gardens. There are also several churches located within the walls of the castle. The most famous of these are St. Vitus Cathedral and St. George's Basilica.The castle is also home to several museums and art galleries. These include the National Gallery, the Prague Picture Gallery, and the Jewish Museum. Visitors can also take in the breathtaking views of the city from the castle walls.
In most parts of Prague, beer is cheaper than water.
The Prague Castle is an important site for Czech history and culture. Every year, the president of the Czech Republic takes his oath of office at the castle. It is also the site of many important state ceremonies and events.
The Prague Castle is an iconic symbol of the city. Its unique architecture and history make it a popular destination for visitors to the Czech Republic. It is a place of beauty, mystery and culture. Visitors to the castle can enjoy the magic of Prague and take in the stunning views of the city.
The Parts of the Prague Castle
The Prague Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the historic city of Prague. It is a complex of buildings, dating back to the 9th century, that serves as the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic. The Prague Castle is a sprawling complex, with many different parts and sections. Here is an overview of the parts of the Castle, where visitors can explore:
- Archishop's palace
- Matthias Gate
- Chapel of the Holy Cross
- Imperial Stable
- Spanish Hall
- St. Vitus Cathedral - This is the main church of the castle and is the burial site of many Czech kings and queens. It is a magnificent Gothic structure, built in the 14th century.
- Old Collegiate Church
- Old Royal Palace - This is the oldest part of the castle, dating back to the 9th century. It contains several important Gothic and Renaissance-style buildings, such as the Lobkowicz Palace and the Schwarzenberg Palace.
- Theresian wing
- Basilica of St. George
- Convent of St. George
- Lobkowicz Palace - the only privately own building in the castle with a collection of fine art.
- Supreme Burgraviate
- Golden Lane - This is a small street that runs through the castle complex. It is lined with colorful houses, which were once home to the castle guards.
- Daliborka Tower
- Black Tower
- Royal Summer Palace - This is a large building, located in the Royal Garden, which was used by the royal family as a summer home. Today, it is open to the public and contains a variety of artworks and other artifacts.
- The Stag Moat - This is a large ditch that surrounds the castle, which was originally used to protect the castle from invading armies. Today, it is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the views of the castle.
- Rosenberg Palace
- Powder Tower or Powder Gate - This is a large tower that was used to store gunpowder and other weapons. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, with a great view of the city.
- Ball Game Hall
- Schwarzenberg Palace
- In addition, there are gardens and courtyards, statues, and other beautiful views
The castle grounds also contain several gardens and courtyards. The most famous are
- Royal Garden - This is a large park that surrounds the castle complex, with a variety of plants, trees, and flowers. It is a great place to relax and take in the views of the castle, and this is where the Czech crown jewels are kept.
- The Hradčany Garden which is located at the highest point of the castle.
These are just some of the parts of the Prague Castle. There are many more interesting sights and attractions to explore in this historic complex. It is no wonder that the Prague Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Activities that visitors should not miss while in the Castle
Tour the Royal Palace, including the State Rooms, the Picture Gallery, and the Imperial Staircase
The State Rooms are a collection of formal and informal chambers, including the Throne Room, the Grand Hall, and the Mirror Hall. These rooms are decorated with exquisite tapestries and paintings, as well as crystal chandeliers and ornate furniture. This is a great place to learn about the history of the Czech Republic and its royal family.
The Picture Gallery is a collection of more than 400 works of art from the 16th to the 19th centuries, including pieces by Rubens, Durer, and Rembrandt. This gallery provides a glimpse into the history of the Czech Republic and its cultural heritage.
The Imperial Staircase is a grand entrance to the Royal Palace. It was designed by the architect Joseph Plečnik, and is decorated with ornate carvings and marble statues. The staircase leads to the palace's courtyards, where visitors can admire the beautiful gardens and fountains.
Visit the Old Royal Palace, which dates back to the 10th century
It is the oldest and most significant of the buildings of the Prague Castle complex. Built in the 9th century, it was the seat of the kings of Bohemia, and later of the Holy Roman Emperors. Throughout its long history, the Palace has undergone numerous renovations and additions, and it still stands today as a stunning example of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
The Palace itself is composed of multiple wings, with the main wing, the Vladislav Hall, being the oldest part of the complex. This hall is an impressive example of late Gothic architecture, featuring an intricate rib vault ceiling and a large illuminated fresco. The Vladislav Hall was used as a coronation hall for the kings of Bohemia. Other notable parts of the Old Royal Palace include the Spanish Hall, the Royal Summer Palace, and the Royal Garden.
The Old Royal Palace is also home to a number of impressive works of art. The Vladislav Hall is adorned with a number of frescoes, including the famous “Last Judgment”. The Spanish Hall houses a collection of 16th century tapestries, and the Royal Summer Palace contains a collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings.
Visit St. Vitus Cathedral, the largest and most important church in Prague
It is the largest and most important church in the country, and is the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. The cathedral was built in the 14th century by King Charles IV, and is dedicated to Saint Vitus, the patron saint of Bohemia.
The cathedral’s exterior is an impressive sight, with its intricate Gothic façade and towering spires. Inside, the large, bright interior is filled with beautiful stained glass windows, marble sculptures, and an impressive organ. The main attraction of the cathedral is its impressive treasury, which contains priceless artifacts from the 14th and 15th centuries, including the crown of St. Wenceslas and the coronation jewels of the Czech kings.
Admire the castle’s many courtyards, including the First and Second Courtyards
The courtyards are a complex network of grand and intricate pathways, linking various parts of the castle. A visit to Prague Castle is not complete without a stroll through the courtyards, which are filled with architectural wonders and historical treasures.
The first courtyard visitors will encounter is the Second Courtyard, which was built in the 13th century and is the largest of the courtyards. This courtyard is surrounded by walls that are adorned with statues of kings, saints, and other figures, and it is dominated by the Gothic-style Vladislav Hall. This courtyard is also home to the Chapel of St. George, which is a beautiful Baroque building that was built in the 17th century. The Third Courtyard is also a popular destination, as it is home to the Royal Palace and the Old Royal Palace, which are two of the most impressive buildings at the castle.
The Fourth Courtyard is the most unique of all the courtyards, as it is home to the Lobkowicz Palace, which is a Rococo-style palace that was built in the 18th century. This palace is filled with artwork and exquisite furniture, and it is a must-see attraction for visitors. The Fifth Courtyard is also a popular destination, as it is home to the Basilica of St. George, which is a stunning Baroque church that was built in the 17th century.
Explore the grounds of the castle, including the Golden Lane and Daliborka Tower
The grounds of the Prague Castle include the Golden Lane and Daliborka Tower, two of the most iconic landmarks of the castle.
The Golden Lane, built in the 16th century, was originally used to house the castle's marksmen. Today, it is a small street lined with colorful houses, each with its own unique story. It serves as a reminder of the castle's long and storied history. The lane is also home to the Franz Kafka Museum, which celebrates the life and works of the famous Czech writer.
The Daliborka Tower is another iconic landmark of the castle. It was built in 1496 and served as a prison for political prisoners, such as Jan Hus and Tycho Brahe. It is now open to the public and serves as a reminder of the castle's turbulent past.
Changing of the Guard
The change of guards at Prague Castle takes place by the First Courtyard, which lies just beyond the entrance of the castle.
The change of guard happens every hour, the most impressive ceremony taking place at noon and is marked by the blaring of trumpets and the exchange of the flag.
Lasts for around 45 minutes.
The ceremony starts at noon from their barracks. The guard is accompanied by a band playing military music as they march to the square. Once the guard arrives at the square, they receive the order to change the guard. The new guard is then inspected by a senior officer who ensures that they are ready to take up their duties.
The old guard then departs, followed by the band.
Other activities in the Castle
- Take a guided tour of the castle and its famous dungeons
- Enjoy the views of the city from the high walls of the castle
- Take the funicular up to the castle from the Lesser Town: it’s on the Castle side of the river
- Check out the Castle Picture Gallery and the toys of the Prague Castle Toy Museum
- Attend a classical music concert at the Lobkowicz Palace
- Take a boat tour on the Vltava River and view the castle from the water
The security check at Prague Castle
The security check at Prague Castle is one of the strictest in the country. All visitors must pass through several security checkpoints before entering the castle grounds. All visitors and their belongings are subject to a thorough search. All bags, purses, and backpacks must be opened. All items that could be potential weapons, such as knives, pepper spray, and firearms, are not allowed.
Prague Castle is one of the most important monuments in the Czech Republic and a popular tourist destination. The security check ensures the safety of all visitors and ensures that the castle remains a safe and secure place to visit.
The security check at the Castle of Prague is a comprehensive process which includes the following steps:
- All visitors must show valid identification (passport, driver's license, etc.) upon entering Prague Castle.
- All bags, backpacks, and other items must be checked by security personnel upon entry
- Hazardous materials are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated
- Metal detectors may be used to check visitors upon entry
- No children under the age of 14 are allowed unless accompanied by an adult.
- Visitors must remain in designated areas while on the castle grounds
- All visitors must adhere to the posted rules and regulations while on the castle grounds.
- No photography is allowed in certain areas of the castle grounds.
- All visitors must be accompanied by a guide or security personnel in order to enter certain areas of the castle.
- Visitors must remain within the castle walls at all times and must not attempt to enter restricted areas.
- All visitors must leave the castle grounds by the designated closing time.
Exploring Prague Castle with children - The Toy Museum
The Toy Museum of Prague is located in the beautiful and historic Castle of Prague. It is a museum dedicated to the preservation and display of toys from all over the world. The museum’s collection ranges from antique toys to modern-day collectibles.
Visitors can expect to find a variety of toys from different historical periods and different countries. The collection includes wooden dolls, tin soldiers, porcelain dolls, model trains, and other toys that have been cherished by generations of children. Many of the items have been carefully restored, while others remain in their original condition.
The museum also has interactive displays where visitors can learn about the history of toys and the people who made them. One of the highlights of the museum is the “Teddy Bear Corner”, where visitors can learn about the history of the beloved toy bear.
The Toy Museum of Prague is a great place for families and children to explore and learn about the history of toys. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs and gifts from the museum’s shop. The museum is open year-round, with extended hours during the summer months.
Not only will children enjoy seeing the unique toys from the past, but they will also learn something about Czech history by visiting the Toy Museum.
Exhibitions
The Prague Castle is home to a large number of exhibitions, which offer visitors an insight into the castle's long and varied history. The permanent exhibitions include the 'Treasures of The Prague Castle', which showcases the most important items from the castle's collection of artefacts, including paintings, sculptures, and precious stones.
The 'History of the Prague Castle' exhibition provides an overview of the castle's history, from its foundation in the 9th century to the present day. The 'History of Czechoslovakia' exhibition tells the story of the Czechoslovak nation from its creation in 1918 to its dissolution in 1993. The 'Royal Apartments' exhibition explores the lives and works of the castle's former rulers, from the first Bohemian king to the last of the Habsburgs.
The 'Art of the Castle' exhibition displays a selection of works from the castle's collection, including Renaissance and Baroque paintings, sculptures, and furniture. The castle also hosts temporary exhibitions, which focus on a wide range of topics. These have included the 'Impressions of Prague', which displays a selection of photographs and films illustrating various aspects of life in the city, and 'The Prague of the Past', which looks at the city's history and culture through artefacts and documents.
There are also a number of smaller exhibitions, such as the 'History of the Castle Gardens' and the 'History of the Castle Armoury'.
The main exhibition at Prague Castle is at the Prague Castle Picture Gallery, located in the Imperial Stables. This gallery houses a collection of over 1,500 paintings, sculptures and other works of art from the 16th to the 19th century. Other exhibitions hosted at Prague Castle include the Medieval Lapidary, the Toy Museum, and the Story of Prague Castle.
Tips and tricks
- Take a guided tour: There are many guided tours available for the Castle of Prague, so make sure to take advantage of them! They will provide you with a wealth of knowledge about the history and architecture of the castle, as well as great photo opportunities.
- Visit during the day: The grounds of the Castle of Prague are especially beautiful in the daylight. Make sure to get up early to take advantage of the best lighting for your photos.
- Explore the gardens: The Castle of Prague is home to several beautiful gardens and courtyards. Make sure to take a leisurely stroll and admire the flowers, trees, and statues.
- Visit at night: The castle is also beautiful at night, especially when lit up. Make sure to visit after dark to experience the beauty of the Castle of Prague in a different light.
- If you're planning to take photos, aim for early morning or late afternoon to get the best light.
- For a truly magical experience, try to visit the castle during the evening when it is illuminated by floodlights.
- Make sure to take in the stunning views from the castle’s towers.
- Take a look at the Golden Lane, a street lined with colorful houses.
- Stop by the powder tower, which is the oldest preserved building in the castle complex.
- Don’t forget to try some traditional Czech food while you’re there!
- Crowds start to swell from 10am and peak around 1pm. By 3 o'clock the queues at Prague Castle are shortened again. Therefore, for a more relaxed visit without the bustle of large crowds, the best time to visit Prague Castle is when it opens at 9am.
- The main advantage of arriving to the Castle after the peak period is that you can visit the Golden Lane for free. This is due to the fact that after 5 hours in summer and after 4 hours in winter, one does not need to purchase a ticket to explore the area.
- The weekends are the busiest for visiting the castle.
- Beginning the journey by foot from Carly Bridge and making one's way up the numerous stairs through the winding streets is worthwhile, as there are many intricate details to observe.
- Food and drink in the castle is very expensive. You should be prepared for this, especially if you are coming with children.
- Visiting the Castle is minimum a half-day programme.
Tickets
Entrance to Prague Castle is free of charge, allowing visitors to explore the castle's grounds and gardens without needing to purchase a ticket.
However, certain buildings, attractions, and exhibitions require a ticket for admission. Tickets can be bought in several places inside the castle.
Skip the Line Prague Castle ticket
The line to get into Prague Castle, particularly St. Vitus Cathedral, can be daunting and long. But this skip-the-line admission lets you breeze right past over tourists and head straight into the Castle and its many rooms where you can begin discovering all the history and architecture of the place.
"Skip-the-line" refers to bypassing the line waiting to purchase tickets, thereby saving time.
This 'B' Round Ticket grants you access to all the main attractions within Prague Castle, including the interiors of the castle, the old Royal Palace, St George's Basilica, the Golden Lane, and the stunning stained glass windows of St Vitus Cathedral.
The representative will meet you at the Prague Castle entrance with a blue and white umbrella. They will provide you with a ticket to the interiors of the castle, which includes entry to St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, and Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower. The ticket is valid for one entry only and does not include a guided tour. The representative will also give you a brief introduction and help you with orientation in the castle complex.
Ticket to the Prague Castle Circle A
Gives you access to all of these sites, as well as a guided tour of the castle grounds. This ticket also includes a visit to the Royal Garden, an audio-guided tour of the castle, and discounts at select restaurants and shops. With your ticket, you can also access the castle's many galleries, theaters, and museums.
Ticket to the Prague Castle Circle C
Holding your C-card, you can explore the "Treasures of St Vitus Cathedral" exhibition and the Prague Castle Picture Gallery.
Photography
Although you can take photos in some areas of Prague Castle for free, you must purchase a photography permit to capture the interior of the building.
Audio Guide
The AudioGuide is available in several languages, including English, German, French and Czech. With the AudioGuide, you will get an in-depth insight into the history and culture of Prague Castle, as well as an entertaining and informative tour of the complex.
It's the perfect way to explore the castle and learn about its many fascinating attractions. So, don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the beauty of Prague from the comfort of your own headphones!
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