10 Interesting Facts About the Prague Castle

The Oldest Part of the Castle

The oldest part of the Prague Castle is the Romanesque Basilica of St. George, which was founded by Vratislaus I of Bohemia in the 10th century. The basilica was later rebuilt in the Gothic style and then again in the Baroque style. It is now a part of the National Gallery in Prague.

The Crown Jewels

The Prague Castle is home to the Czech Crown Jewels, which include the Crown of Saint Wenceslas, the Royal Sceptre, and the Royal Orb. The Crown Jewels are kept in a room inside the castle, and they are only displayed to the public on special occasions.

The Golden Lane

The Golden Lane is a narrow street located inside the Prague Castle complex. It is lined with small, brightly colored houses that were once occupied by goldsmiths. Today, the houses have been converted into shops and museums, and the street is a popular tourist attraction.

The Defenestration of Prague

The Defenestration of Prague was a key event that led to the outbreak of the Thirty Years’ War. In 1618, a group of Protestant Bohemian nobles threw two Catholic officials out of a window in the Prague Castle. The officials survived the fall, but the event marked the beginning of a long and bloody conflict.

The Presidential Office

The Prague Castle is the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic. The Presidential Office is located inside the castle, and the President holds meetings and official receptions there.

Prague Castle across the Vltava

Tip for your team

Prague is our playground. Castle views included

Treasure Hunt Prague takes your team through the historic center beneath the castle. Swap the meeting room for ciphers, tasks, and teamwork right in the streets.

Explore the game

The Powder Tower

The Powder Tower is a Gothic tower located at the entrance to the Prague Castle complex. It was built in the 15th century and was used to store gunpowder. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of Prague.

The St. Vitus Cathedral

The St. Vitus Cathedral is the most important church in the Czech Republic. It is located inside the Prague Castle complex and was founded in the 10th century. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is famous for its stained glass windows and beautiful frescoes.

The Lobkowicz Palace

The Lobkowicz Palace is a Baroque palace located inside the Prague Castle complex. It was built in the 16th century and was owned by the Lobkowicz family for over 300 years. Today, the palace is open to the public and houses a museum that showcases the family’s art collection.

The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard is a daily ceremony that takes place at the Prague Castle. The ceremony is performed by the Castle Guard, and it involves a procession from the Powder Tower to the Main Courtyard. Visitors can watch the ceremony and take photos with the guards.

The Castle Gardens

The Prague Castle Gardens are a series of beautiful gardens located on the southern side of the castle complex. The gardens were created in the Renaissance and Baroque styles and offer stunning views of the city. Visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy a peaceful stroll.