Old Royal Palace: A Window into Bohemian History
Explore centuries of Bohemian history within the walls of Prague Castle's Old Royal Palace, from royal residence to national monument.
The Old Royal Palace, nestled within the Prague Castle complex, offers a captivating journey through Czech history. Originally built in the 9th century, it evolved from a wooden structure to a stone palace under Duke Sobeslav I in the 12th century. For centuries, it served as the residence of Bohemian rulers and Holy Roman Emperors, witnessing pivotal events that shaped the nation's destiny. The palace's architecture reflects its long and storied past, blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements. The magnificent Vladislav Hall, constructed during the reign of Vladislav II in the late 15th century, stands as a testament to Gothic grandeur. Its impressive vaulted ceiling and spacious interior once hosted coronations, banquets, and even jousting tournaments. The Rider's Staircase was designed to allow knights on horseback to enter the hall. Beyond its architectural splendor, the Old Royal Palace is also known for the Defenestration of Prague in 1618. From the windows of the Ludwig Wing, Protestant nobles threw two Imperial Catholic Governors and their secretary, an event that ignited the Thirty Years' War. Today, the Old Royal Palace continues to play a role in Czech national life. The Vladislav Hall is used for presidential inaugurations and other state ceremonies. Visitors can explore the palace's historic halls, admire its artistic details, and imagine the lives of the rulers who once resided within its walls.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
- Purchase a Prague Castle ticket in advance to skip the ticket lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
- Check the Prague Castle website for information on opening hours, special events, and closures.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the Old Royal Palace and the rest of the Prague Castle complex.
A brief summary to Old Royal Palace
- Třetí nádvoří Pražského hradu 48, Prague 1-Hradčany, 119 00, CZ
- +420224373584
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach the Old Royal Palace, take Tram 22 to the 'Pražský hrad' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Prague Castle complex. Alternatively, take Metro Line A to 'Malostranská' station and walk uphill through the Lesser Town. A single tram or metro fare costs 30 CZK for 30 minutes or 40 CZK for 90 minutes. A 24-hour pass is available for 120 CZK.
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Walking
From the Old Town Square, cross the Charles Bridge and walk uphill through the Lesser Town to reach Prague Castle. Follow the signs towards 'Pražský hrad'. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes and offers scenic views of the city. Note that the walk involves a steep climb.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Prague. A ride from the city center to Prague Castle typically costs between 200-300 CZK, depending on traffic and the specific location. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
