Prague Castle
Vast hilltop castle complex with St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane.
Ideal: Ideal for history, architecture, views, and first-time visitors to Prague.
At 70,000 square metres, Guinness lists it as the world's largest ancient castle complex; since the 9th century it has been the seat of Bohemian kings and later presidents. St. Vitus Cathedral at its heart began in 1344 and was not finished until 1929 — 585 years. Alfons Mucha's stained-glass window added in 1931 is a rare art nouveau touch inside a Gothic cathedral. In 1618, two royal governors were thrown from a window here, starting the Thirty Years' War; both survived because they landed on a dung heap.
Why go?
- To see Prague's most iconic historic district
- To explore St. Vitus Cathedral and the castle courtyards
- Because it offers a strong viewpoint over the city from above
Travel tip
The castle area is large; don't just look from outside — allow time for St. Vitus Cathedral and the Golden Lane area.
