Prague Castle

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The complex holds the Guinness World Record for the largest coherent castle area in the world.

2. 2

   The Bohemian Crown Jewels are kept in a chamber within St. Vitus Cathedral that requires seven keys held by different state officials to open.

3. 3

   The Golden Lane's houses were originally built for castle archers and later occupied by goldsmiths and other artisans.

4. 4

   Franz Kafka lived in house No. 22 on the Golden Lane between 1916 and 1917.

5. 5

   The castle grounds include a dedicated vineyard, St. Wenceslas Vineyard, which is one of the oldest in the region.

6. 6

   The Vladislav Hall features a Gothic rib-vaulted ceiling designed to allow horse-drawn carriages to enter for tournaments.

7. 7

   The castle has been hit by multiple fires and sieges, leading to extensive architectural reconstruction after each event.

8. 8

   The Great South Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral houses 'Zikmund', the largest bell in the Czech Republic, cast in 1549.

9. 9

   The complex layout includes a moat on the north side, historically known as the 'Stag Moat'.

10. 10

    The castle complex serves as a repository for historical documents, including the remains of royal archives.

Overview

Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world, covering an area of nearly 70,000 square meters. The site functions as the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic and served historically as the seat of Czech kings and Holy Roman Emperors. The architectural evolution spans from Romanesque to Gothic and Baroque styles. St. Vitus Cathedral, located within the complex, contains the tombs of Czech monarchs and the Bohemian Crown Jewels. The complex includes several palaces, ecclesiastical buildings, fortifications, and residential gardens. Archaeological excavations confirm human activity on the site dating back to the 9th century. The complex is organized around three main courtyards and the Golden Lane, a street known for its small 16th-century houses. It is the most visited tourist attraction in the Czech Republic. The castle remains a central symbol of the Czech state and historical continuity.

Insider tips

• Purchase the entry circuit ticket to access all major interiors; walking the grounds is free, but many buildings require a pass.

• Enter through the main gate to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony held daily.

• Wear supportive footwear to navigate the extensive cobblestone terrain and steep staircases.

• Visit the less-crowded courtyards in the back of the complex for a quieter experience.