The Majestic Great South Tower: A Historical Marvel
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at the Great South Tower, a Gothic masterpiece within Prague Castle, perfect for every traveler.
A brief summary to Great South Tower
- Třetí nádvoří Pražského hradu, Prague 1-Hradčany, 119 00, CZ
The Great South Tower, part of the magnificent Prague Castle, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural prowess of the Czech Republic. It is an essential visit for tourists exploring Prague, offering an unparalleled view of the city and the surrounding landscape. As you ascend its stone steps, you are not only climbing a tower but also stepping back in time, surrounded by centuries of history that whisper tales of royalty and resilience. The tower, which is intricately linked to the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, showcases Gothic architecture at its finest, characterized by its soaring spires and detailed stonework. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the intricate stained glass windows and the serene ambiance that envelops the cathedral and its adjacent structures. Beyond its architectural beauty, the Great South Tower provides panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. From its heights, tourists can gaze over the sprawling rooftops of Prague, the winding Vltava River, and the majestic hills that frame the city. It is a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of Prague from above. Make sure to allocate time to truly absorb the atmosphere, as the tower is not just a place to visit, but an experience that immerses you in the spirit of this historic city. Whether you are a history buff or a casual traveler, the Great South Tower is a must-see landmark that enriches your journey through Prague.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful ascent.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the top.
- Check the opening hours ahead of time, as they can vary seasonally.
- Consider combining your visit with a tour of the nearby St. Vitus Cathedral for a complete experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, as there are many steps to navigate.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start by entering the address 'Třetí nádvoří Pražského hradu, 119 00 Praha 1-Hradčany' into your GPS. From Central Bohemia, take the D0 motorway towards Prague. Follow the signs for 'Praha' and take the exit for 'Břevnov' to get onto the road leading to the castle. Parking can be found nearby at the Parkoviště Hradčany parking area, but note that it may incur a fee of around 40 CZK per hour.
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Public Transportation
For public transportation, from any location in Central Bohemia, take a train or bus to the main train station in Prague (Hlavní nádraží). From there, catch the metro line C (red line) towards 'Letňany' and transfer at 'Muzeum' to line A (green line) towards 'Nemocnice Motol'. Get off at 'Malostranská' station. From Malostranská, you can either walk approximately 15 minutes to the Great South Tower or take tram number 22 towards 'Břevnov' and get off at 'Pražský hrad' stop. The tram ride costs about 32 CZK.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of Prague Castle, you can approach the Great South Tower by walking. The entrance to the castle complex is located at the top of Hradčanské náměstí. Once inside the complex, follow the signs towards the cathedral, and you will find the Great South Tower at the Third Courtyard of the Prague Castle. Walking from the entrance of the castle complex will take approximately 10 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Great South Tower
- St. Vitus Cathedral
- Fountain and statue of Saint George, Prague Castle
- Old Royal Palace
- Obelisk at Prague Castle
- Býčí schodiště
- Mihulka Powder Tower
- Vladislav Hall
- Prague Castle
- Story of Prague Castle
- Second Courtyard of Prague Castle
- Kohl's Fountain
- Imperial Stables
- Kašna
- Deer Moat
- Prague Castle Picture Gallery
Landmarks nearby to Great South Tower
- Rosenberg Palace
- Mihai Viteazul Marker
- Prague Castle Riding School
- Column of the Holy Trinity
- Liechtensteinský palác (Malostranské náměstí, Prague)
- The Golden Lane
- Hradcany Square
- Lobkowicz Palace
- Waldstein Palace (Wallenstein Palace)
- Gardens below Prague Castle
- Historická ulice
- Fürstenberg Garden
- The Vrtba Garden
- Dripstone Wall
- Old Castle Stairs