Visiting Prague Castle is an unforgettable experience and a perfect way to get to know Czech culture. Considered the largest medieval castle in the world, it sits high on a hill above the Vltava river and casts a majestic silhouette over the city skyline. Founded in the late 9th century, it has been the official residence of Bohemian monarchs and Czech presidents for most of its history.
The sprawling complex covers 45 hectares and you can spend a whole day or two exploring these historical grounds covered with fortification towers, religious edifices, aristocratic palaces, gardens and various picturesque spots. In addition to Prague Castle Main Circuit, which includes top sights like St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane (free entry with CoolPass), you can visit several permanent exhibitions of the complex (50% discount with CoolPass).
STORY OF PRAGUE CASTLE – located under the Gothic vaults beneath Old Royal Palace, this exciting display is dedicated to the millennia-old history of Prague Castle. Follow along a maze of beautiful rooms and admire various artefacts: models of the Castle in different ages, fascinating historical costumes, a 17th-century Bible, pottery, stone engravings and of course the glittering Bohemian royal jewels, including the the gold crown of St. Wenceslas made for Charles IV.
MIHULKA TOWER - CASTLE GUARD EXHIBITION – originally a cannon bastion, Powder Tower Mihulka now houses an exposition called "From the Royal Cohort to the Presidential Castle Guards of Today". Visitors will be guided through the history and present of Prague Castle Guard through a series of exhibits and period scenes.
PRAGUE CASTLE PICTURE GALLERY - the oldest continuously existing collection of paintings in the Czech Republic, whose roots date back to the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries. Originated during the reign of Emperor Rudolf II – an avid collector of art, it contains works of Titian, Aachen and Rubens amongst other priceless items.
ROSENBERG PALACE – former property of the Czech aristocratic family of Rožmberk, which later was turned into the Institute of Noblewomen by the Queen Maria Theresia. The main highlight is the 3-storey chapel with magnificent ceiling frescoes reflected in mirrors on the floor. Also, you can see several rooms, one of which is a recreation of a lady’s bedchamber – complete with period furniture and dress.
