Prague Castle is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in the world. Its huge historical significance and interesting stories make it a must-see for all visitors.
A guided tour is a great way to learn about the castle’s history and lesser-known facts. Besides, they can recommend great places to see during your visit.
1. The Old Royal Palace
One of the most significant castles in Europe, Prague Castle is a UNESCO world heritage site. This massive complex of ecclesiastical, fortification and residential buildings is the symbol of more than a thousand years of Czech history.
Start your visit by taking a tour of the Old Royal Palace, which dates back to the 14th century. Originally the residence of Emperor Charles IV, it was expanded by his son Wenceslas.
2. St. George’s Basilica
One of the most interesting sights within Prague Castle is St. George’s Basilica, built in 920 and considered the best preserved Romanesque monument in Bohemia.
Its main triple nave features a monumental Romanesque apse and crypt. It also holds the tombs of prominent religious personalities like Vratislav, St. Ludmila, Duke Boleslav II and more.
3. The Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is one of the most famous sights in Prague Castle and a must-see. It’s held every hour and involves a ceremonial exchange of flags.
The Czech soldiers performing the Changing of the Guard are a joy to watch and you’ll probably find yourself laughing out loud while watching them. It’s a funny ceremony and the best time to see it is at noon.
4. The Golden Lane
One of the most popular areas of Prague Castle, The Golden Lane is a picturesque alleyway that dates back to the sixteenth century. Today, the houses here are pastel-colored and have been converted into souvenir shops.
The lane was originally built as dwellings for the guards of the castle. Later, artists, clerks and footmen also lived here.
5. The Cathedral of St. Vitus
Located in the center of Prague Castle is the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in the Czech Republic and a must-visit landmark in the city.
Its grand interiors feature a number of wonders including the stunningly decorated St Wenceslas Chapel, the crypt where many Czech kings are buried and the Crown Chamber, home to the Crown Jewels. The cathedral took nearly 600 years to complete.
6. The Great South Tower
The Great South Tower is a great place to see all of Prague Castle from above. It offers incredible views of the entire complex, and the best part is that you don’t have to pay a fortune to climb it!
The Great South Tower is one of the oldest parts of Prague Castle, and it’s also a popular site for tourists. This Gothic and Renaissance-inspired structure is home to the Great Vladislav Hall. It was the largest room in medieval Prague and served as a meeting place for banquets, councils, and even jousting tournaments!
7. The Tower of Sigmund
Prague Castle is one of the most important and oldest buildings in the Czech Republic. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has seen centuries of change.
The tower is known for its unique architecture and is the perfect place to capture some incredible Prague views. Moreover, the tower is also home to the famous Astronomical Clock.
8. The Powder Tower
Prague Castle is a massive complex of palaces, churches and defense towers. It is also home to the National Gallery and a number of museums.
One of the most famous features is the Powder Tower, which was once part of the Riga defensive system. Today it houses an impressive war museum.
9. The Astronomical Clock
The Astronomical Clock is one of the most famous sights in Prague and, first installed in 1410, remains one of the world’s oldest astronomical clocks. It features an astronomical dial, solar plate, calendar plate and zodiac ring.
Over the top of each of the two dials is a window where the Twelve Apostles appear in a precession every hour. They’re flanked by figures representing vanity, greed, death and lust.
10. The National Gallery
A UNESCO monument and symbol of more than a thousand years of Czech development, Prague Castle comprises historical palaces, churches, fortification buildings and gardens.
The National Gallery, which holds artefacts ranging from 14th to 19th century, is one of the biggest museums in central Europe. Its collections of European paintings, drawings and sculptures were founded in 1796 by the Society of Patriotic Friends of Art.
