Prague Castle Facts

Prague Castle was founded in the 9th century by Prince Bořivoj, making it one of the oldest castles in Europe. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and modified, resulting in a mix of architectural styles. It was the seat of power for the Bohemian princes and later the kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic.

The Prague Castle complex consists of several buildings and courtyards, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, and the Golden Lane. St. Vitus Cathedral is one of the most prominent buildings and features stunning stained-glass windows. The Old Royal Palace is another important building and houses historical artifacts, including the Bohemian and Moravian crown jewels. St. George's Basilica is one of the oldest surviving buildings and houses a collection of Bohemian art and artefacts. The Golden Lane is a small street within the complex that provides a glimpse into life in Prague during the Middle Ages.

Prague Castle is located on a hill overlooking the city of Prague. Visitors can reach the castle by taking a tram or walking up the hill from the city center. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes and provides beautiful views of the city. There is also a shuttle bus that runs from Malostranská metro station to the castle complex.

Yes, there is an entrance fee to enter certain areas of Prague Castle, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and St. George's Basilica. The fee varies depending on which areas you want to visit and whether you want to purchase a guided tour. There is also a fee to enter the Golden Lane, which is included in the Prague Castle circuit ticket.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Prague Castle is a popular attraction for tourists. It takes place every hour in front of the castle's main entrance and involves the replacement of the castle guards. The guards are dressed in traditional uniforms and carry weapons. The ceremony is accompanied by music and is a great way to experience a bit of Czech culture.

• Prague Castle Church: A stunning place of worship within the castle complex.
• Orangery in Prague Castle: A charming space filled with citrus trees and flowers.
• Garden of Bastion: A tranquil garden offering panoramic views of Prague.
• St. George's Basilica: A Romanesque church with impressive architectural details.