Vysehrad Castle

Vysehrad Castle is Prague's second castle and or as its name states High Castle. It sits perched high above the Vltava River and gets little attention from visitors. It's more of a local place with few tourists.

But, don't let that stop you from enjoying its history and many sights. The view of Prague from Vysehrad alone is worth the visit.

This page outlines a bit of the history and sights to expect. The easist way to get here is to take the Prague metro (C line) to Vysehrad station and follow the signs. It's quite simple.

Among all Prague attractions this one has far fewer tourists but is also on the outskirst of the city center.

There's no general admission to Vysehrad. Some parts may charge a very small fee to peek inside. So, grab a map of Prague and let's get going.

What to See and Do

A Brief History of Vysehrad Castle
 

What to See and Do at Vysehrad Castle

There's lots to see here. But, it's a different feeling than Prague Castle. The area is more of a park than a fairytale castle. Each sight is separated by paths and a garden feel. 

So be prepared to relax and stroll around. Many families come here for an afternoon in the summer just to relax, have an ice cream (or beer) and just walk around. Of note will be:

Visit the Casemates

These are deep passages within the fortress ramparts. They now house some of the original statues of Charles Bridge.

The casemates were almost destroyed at the end of the First Silesian War in 1742. The Prussians placed 133 barrels of gunpowder within the casemates, but the slow fuse was never lit by the last soldier in the garrison to leave.

Church of Saints Peter and Paul

This twin steepled church has been reset and rebuilt over the years. Today it maintains its Art Nouveau decor inside and neogothic details outside. Note the gorgeous frescoes above the entrances (see photo below).

National Cemetery

The cemetery at Vysehrad Castle is, in a way, more of an open air art exhibition. Numerous famous Czechs have been laid to rest here with ornate graves, frescoes and sculptured headstones. Among them include: Antonin Dvorak, Bedrich Smetana, Jan Neruda and Karel Capek. On the backside of the cemetery you'll find the Slavin. This is a large resting place for numerous guests inlcuding Alfons Mucha.

Gates and Walls

The fortress is guarded by a series of incredibly large brick walls and formidable gates. The Leopold Gate in particular tells you without a doubt - you are entering a castle. From the western and northern sides of Vysehrad Castle you will find lovely views of Prague, Vltava River and the surrounding suburbs.

St. Martin's Rotunda

Considered by some to be the oldest surviving building in Prague, the Rotunda (see photo below) is not open to the public but is worth taking a look at. I'm always amazed at how it's lasted through such strife amid the walls of Vysehrad. One way of course was to act as a gun powder storage at times instead of its original chapel intention.

A Brief History of Vysehrad Castle

Vysehrad Castle is commonly known as the birthplace of Prague. It was here that Princess Libuse, the wise daughter of a local ruler foresaw the future of Prague, a great city.

She sought out Přemysl the Ploughman and the foundation of the Přemysl dynasty soon took hold. Records show that the first settlement here was in the 10th century.

 St. Martin's Rotunda

The area then underwent several changes over the centuries. It fell in and out of favor depending on the ruling family and its interests.

In the 11th century the Rotunda of St. Martin was built and is considered to be one of Prague's oldest surviving buildings.

After some neglect the area again took importance during the rule of Charles IV. The emporer declared a new coronation route that was to begin symbolically at Vysehrad and lead into Prague.

During the Hussite Wars the area was nearly destroyed and maintained its status as a military jurisdiction until 1911. At this time the city took control of the area and work began to rediscover its heritage.

In the 20th century, the trademark twin spired Church of Saints Peter and Paul was built and the national cemetery was founded.