Vyšehrad: Prague's Historic Hilltop Fortress
Vyšehrad, a historic hilltop fortress overlooking the Vltava River, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Prague. This ancient citadel played a crucial role in the city's development and offers a glimpse into its rich history.
The fortress's origins date back to the 9th century, when it served as the seat of the early Czech rulers. Over the centuries, Vyšehrad has witnessed significant historical events, including sieges, royal coronations, and religious ceremonies. Today, the site is a peaceful oasis, filled with beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and stunning views.
One of the highlights of Vyšehrad is its impressive Gothic basilica, St. Peter and Paul Cathedral. The cathedral boasts intricate architecture, stained glass windows, and a grand interior. Visitors can also explore the Vyšehrad Cemetery, a tranquil resting place for many famous Czech personalities, including composers Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana.
For those seeking panoramic views of Prague, Vyšehrad offers several vantage points. From the fortress walls, you can admire the city's skyline, including the iconic Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. The surrounding gardens provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city center, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
Vyšehrad is a fascinating destination that offers a unique perspective on Prague's history. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, a visit to this historic fortress is highly...
Read moreVyšehrad (Czech for "upper castle") is a historic fort in Prague, Czech Republic, just over 3 km southeast of Prague Castle, on the east bank of the Vltava River.[1] It was probably built in the 10th century. Inside the fort are the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul and the Vyšehrad Cemetery, containing the remains of many famous Czechs, such as Antonín Dvořák, Bedřich Smetana, Karel Čapek, and Alphonse Mucha. It also contains Prague's oldest Rotunda of St. Martin, from the 11th century.
The present form of Vyšehrad as a fortified residence, with powerful brick ramparts, bastions, and the Tábor and Leopold gates, is a result of Baroque remodeling. The Cihelná brána (Brick gate) is an Empire-style structure, dating from 1841. The main part of the Špička Gate, parts of the Romanesque bridge, and the ruined Gothic lookout tower known as Libušina lázeň (Libuše's Bath) are the only fragments that have been preserved from the Middle Ages. The Romanesque rotunda of St. Martin dates from the second half of the 11th century. The 11th century Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, which dominates Vyšehrad, was remodeled in the second half of the 14th century and again in 1885 and 1887 in neo-Gothic style.[2] Vyšehrad and the area around it became part of the capital city in 1883. The area is one of the cadastral districts...
Read moreOne of the nicest place we have visited in Prague it was Vysehrad. It was not in our list to do, but since our friend lives in Prague city she told us to visit this historic fort of Prague and the village of Vysehrad, that includes a really charming Church os St Peter, a Gothic cemetery and we walked all morning around the huge walls of the Fort that gives you a gorgeous view from Prague city and all bridges. It also contains Prague's oldest Rotunda of St. Martin from the 11th century and there is a coffee shop and small gift shops around.
The best part, it’s a place with not lots of tourists, since they prefer to stay in the Old town of Prague and we could walk without busy streets, take good pictures and no stress at all!
We got the metro to get there plus some walking in not regular stones, but we believe there is a parking around and we saw many people with children.
We don't remember if there is an entrance fee, we think we didn't pay to visit the Fort, however if you want to visit the Church inside you must pay around $ 2.70cad. They just accept cash in their currency.
Eli: 5 / Serge: 5
Recommended: Yes, we really loved to spend the morning up there, it’s an interesting historic and oasis place to...
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