Vyšehrad: The Other Prague Castle
Vyšehrad fortress has one of the most magnificent views of Prague. Hidden from the touristic paths, this historical site still keeps its magical atmosphere. Have a walk by the medieval fortification, explore the park with the historical sites, and have a beer in an open pub with an astonishing view over the Prague roofs. Especially the sunset time has a unique atmosphere, so make sure you won’t miss it.
According to the legend, Vyšehrad is the oldest seat of the Bohemian kings and queens. In one of the legends, princess Libuše has a vision “I can see a great city, whose fame will reach the stars.” However, the existence of Vyšehrad is confirmed only from the mid-10th century. The royals moved to the Prague Castle one century later.
What to Visit at Vyšehrad
Taking aside all the legends we have about Vyšehrad, you can feel a magical atmosphere everywhere around this place. Located on the rock above the Vltava river, it’s a great place to walk in a spacious park, having a picnic, beer with a view, or even explore the historical sites.
The main dominant, the church of St. Peter and Paul, is visible from a distance and attracts many visitors. Unfortunately, the original church from the 11th century was destroyed. The reconstruction in the Neo-Gothic by the end of the 19th century also applied features of art nouveau. So, the combination of styles makes the church even more interesting.
Just next to the church is an entrance to the cemetery Slavín that is a resting place for distinguished representatives of Czech culture, politics, and society. To name a few, you can find tombs of composers Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana, artist Alfons Mucha and many others that had a significant impact on Czech history. Slavín is not a gloomy venue, but a charming place to visit.
My third recommendation is the rotunda of St. Martin, one of the oldest surviving buildings of Prague and the Czech Republic. Walking around Vyšehrad, you might further encounter galleries, a summer stage for theatre performances, and great views from every corner of the fortification. I would also draw your attention to Devil’s stones – three cylinders locked together that might look like some modern art. However, this is an ancient object of unclear origin shrouded by mysterious legends.
How to get to Vyšehrad
The easiest way to get there is by the red metro line to Vyšehrad. Then, follow the sign, walk about 10 minutes, and you should not miss it. If you are down by the river on Náplavka, take tram number 3,7, 16, or 17 to Výtoň, walk under the iron bridge until you reach the sign Vyšehrad going up the hill.
