Historical Highlights
Historical Highlights
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Prague with our comprehensive guide. From majestic historic buildings to awe-inspiring churches and religious sites, there's something for everyone to admire. Use the links below to quickly navigate to different sections of the page and explore the fascinating historical highlights that Prague has to offer.
Historical Buildings
Prague Castle
Prague Castle was founded in 880 and is the world's largest ancient castle complex made of palaces and church buildings (e.g. St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, the Golden Lane, St. George's Basilica, Rosenberg Palace). The complex also includes the magnificent Royal Garden which Habsburg Ferdinand I built. The Great South Tower of the Cathedral offers a unique view of Prague.
Website: Official website of Prague Castle
Guided tours: Guided tours information
Opening Hours: See more on official sites
Accessibility: All buildings are fully wheelchair accessible except the St George's Basilica with a 10 cm high step and the two towers.
Source: https://www.guide-prague.cz/
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge, constructed in the 14th Century, is the oldest standing bridge over the Vltava River in Prague, connecting the Old Town with Mala Strana. It is known for its stunning statues and baroque architecture. The Bridge offers beautiful views of the Vltava River.
More information about Charles Bridge: here
Source: https://praguesiesta.com/pruvodce-okolim/karluv-most/
Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock
The Old Town Hall, located in the Old Town Square, was established in 1338 as the first in Bohemia and served as the seat of the Old Town government. In 1992, it was declared a national cultural monument. The oldest part represents the southern wing with a beautiful tower and a unique Astronomical Clock. The Clock has been operating since 1410 and it's famous mainly because of the Procession of Twelve Apostles which appears every hour (9 am to 11 pm). The visitor circuit consists of the Tower and historical interiors (chapel, halls, and underground). The Tower is the only barrier-free one of Prague's medieval towers.
More information about Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock: here
Opening Hours: See more on official sites
Accessibility: Access to the Town Hall Tower is barrier-free for wheelchair users.
Source: https://www.prague.eu/
Prague City Gallery – Troja Château (Zámek Troja)
Troja Castle (also known as Troja Castle) is a Baroque building with unique fresco decoration of the halls which was built in 1679–1685 by Count Václav Vojtěch from Šternberk. A beautiful French garden with many ornamental and fruit trees and a small natural maze surrounds the castle.
Website: Official website of Troja Château
Opening Hours: See more on official sites
Accessibility: Ramps and elevators ensure wheelchair accessibility. Designated parking spaces for visitors with disabilities.
Source: https://www.ikaruvsen.cz/project/zamek-troja-praha/
Powder Gate Tower
Powder Gate Tower, completed in 1475, is a late Gothic building representing one of Prague's most significant monuments and symbols. The Tower formerly served as a gunpowder storage place. It's the starting point of the Royal Path to Prague Castle. The height of the Tower is 65 m and inside at a height of 44m there is a gallery.
Website: Official website of Powder Gate Tower
Opening Hours: Daily 09:00–20:30
Accessibility: Wheelchair access is not allowed for technical and operational reasons.
Source: https://www.prague.eu/
Religious Monuments and Sites
St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral, the crown jewel of Prague Castle, is an impressive Gothic cathedral and the largest and most significant religious site in Prague. Founded in 1344 and completed in 1929, its construction spanned an incredible 585 years, involving renowned architects like Matthias of Arras, Petr Parléř, Benedikt Ried, and Hans Tirol. The cathedral houses the tombs of many Bohemian kings, emperors, nobles, archbishops, and the Czech Crown Jewels.
Visitors should not miss the unique St. Vitus net vault designed by Petr Parléř, which is an architectural marvel of its time. The cathedral also features stunning modern works of art, including sculptures and a carved altar by František Bílek, as well as contributions from famous artists like Alfons Mucha and Max Švabinský.
Website: Official website of St. Vitus Cathedral
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday 09:00–17:00; Sunday 12:00–17:00
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Source: https://www.hrad.cz/
St. Nicholas Church
Located in the Lesser Town, this baroque church is known for its stunning frescoes and ornate interior. It's a prime example of high baroque architecture in Prague. Many fantastic concerts are organized here during the primary season (April – December). Further details about the program and prices can be found here: Concerts at St. Nicholas Church
Website: Official website of St. Nicholas Church
Opening Hours, September: Friday–Saturday 09:00–17:00; Sunday–Thursday 09:00–18:00.
Accessibility: Assisted wheelchair access should be available with prior notice.
Source: https://www.pragueticketoffice.com/
Church of Our Lady before Týn
A monumental Gothic church with its characteristic two towers visible from any point of Prague, dominates the beautiful Old Town Square. It was built in the 14th Century and the interior was rebuilt in the Baroque style in the 17th Century due to a fire. The Church houses a gallery of Gothic, Renaissance, and early Baroque works, the famous astronomer Tycho Braha's tomb, and the oldest organ in Prague.
Website: Official website of Church of Our Lady before Týn
Opening hours: See more on official sites
Admission: voluntary recommended 40 CZK (€2 EUR)
Accessibility: Wheelchair access is via 5 Celetna Street
Source: https://www.prague.eu/