Prague Castle, the Jewel of Prague
Prague Castle, along with the iconic Charles Bridge, stands as the crown jewel of Prague and arguably the entire Czech Republic. It’s a sight you simply can’t miss – and wouldn’t want to. To visit Prague without experiencing its majestic castle is to miss the true essence of the city. Spanning an impressive 7.5 hectares, the castle complex is the largest in the world, a vast treasure trove of history and architectural marvels. The Golden Mile, starting from the heart of You Love Prague, will lead you on a scenic walk straight to this breathtaking landmark.
Based on recent archaeological discoveries and the oldest written records, Prague Castle was founded around 880 by Prince Bořivoj I of the Přemyslid dynasty, the first confirmed Duke of Bohemia. Over the centuries, the castle has evolved, with each era adding its own touch to its architecture.
Centre of kings and religious power
From the 10th century, Prague Castle became not just the seat of the ruling prince and later the king, but also the center of religious power, housing the Bishop of Prague. The first monastery in Bohemia was established here as well, next to the Church of St. George, for the Benedictine monks. This blend of royal and spiritual authority made Prague Castle a true heart of Bohemian life.
A symbol of Czech Identity
Today, Prague Castle serves not only as the seat of the head of state but also as a treasure trove of Czech history and culture. Within its walls are housed the crown jewels, the tombs of Czech kings, rare Christian relics, priceless works of art, and key historical documents. The castle has witnessed many of the nation’s most significant events, making it a symbol of Czech identity. Prague Castle stands as a bridge between the past and present, embodying the rich historical tradition of the Czech state and its enduring legacy.
Personal
"Every time I enter Prague Castle, I am overwhelmed by a sense of ancient grandeur. The cobblestone streets whisper tales of royal intrigue, heroic battles, and artistic splendor that have unfolded here throughout the centuries. It feels as though the walls themselves have absorbed the history and now stand as witnesses to the passage of time."
Prague Castle: A Quick Guide to What You’ll See
Prague Castle is a must-visit for anyone in the city. With its rich history and stunning architecture, the castle complex offers something for everyone. Here’s a quick look at the main sights within the castle, perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace.
The Gothic crown of Prague Castle, this cathedral is known for its stunning stained glass and towering spires. Inside, you’ll find the tombs of Czech kings and the beautiful Chapel of St. Wenceslas.
Once the seat of Czech kings, this palace is famous for Vladislav Hall, a grand space where knights once jousted.
It’s the perfect place to imagine royal life centuries ago.
A narrow, colourful street of tiny houses, once home to castle guards and later alchemists and fortune tellers. It’s a charming slice of medieval life with small museums and shops to explore.
The Royal Garden
A peaceful garden filled with fountains and flowerbeds, ideal for a relaxing break from sightseeing.
Enjoy beautiful views of Prague from here, especially in spring and summer.
St. George's Basilica
One of the oldest churches in Prague, St. George's Basilica stands out with its Romanesque architecture and striking red façade.
Inside, you’ll find a simple yet atmospheric interior, and the tombs of early Czech royalty.
Changing of the Guard
The changing of the guard ceremony, held every hour, is a captivating tradition that combines pageantry with military precision.
For a truly memorable experience, make sure to be there at noon to witness the grand changing of the guards.
Tips for your visit!
General tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes – The castle complex is vast, and there’s a lot of walking involved.
- Allow enough time – To truly appreciate all that Prague Castle has to offer, set aside at least half a day for your visit.
- Best times to visit – To avoid crowds, try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during peak tourist season.
Personal Tip:
"Come back to Prague Castle when it is dark and the complex is lit.
The magical ambiance will sweep you into a state of euphoria."
Access and tickets to Prague Castle
While the grounds are free to enter (from 6 am to 10 pm), certain parts of the complex, like St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace, require a ticket. There are different ticket types depending on how much you want to explore:
- Combo Ticket 1: access to the rear part of St. Vitus Cathedral, the Golden Lane, St. George's Basilica, and the Old Royal Palace. Individual tickets for these attractions cannot be purchased separately.
- Combo Ticket 2: access to the permanent exhibitions: The Story of Prague Castle, the Castle Guard Exhibition, the Prague Castle Picture Gallery, and Rosenberg Palace.
- The Great Southern Tower of the cathedral offers stunning views over all of Prague.
- Lobkowicz Palace (museum).
You are allowed to bring your phone, food, and drinks. However, for some areas, you may need to pay an additional fee if you are using a separate camera to take photos.
Combo Ticket 1 and entrance to the Lobkowicz Palace are included in the Prague CoolPass.
How to Get to Prague Castle:
- Walking (see The Golden Mile) from the Malostranská metro station or tram stop.
- Walking from Charles Bridge via Mostecká, Malostranské náměstí, Nerudova, and Ke Hradu.
- Trams 12, 23, and 32 take you to the entrance on the north side of the Castle.
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