Prague, just like any other European capital city out there, has its fair share of extravagant attractions. These landmarks and monuments have a lot of history to them, making them even more of a tourist hotspot that visitors just have to visit. And among Prague's great things to see, their palaces are second to none. Even though the Czech Republic has long-demolished its monarchy, the many grand palaces that the royals once lived in still stand. They're just as glorious today as they were back then, so much so that just seeing them from afar will take your breath away.
Prague Castle
Without a doubt, Prague Castle, or '
Pražský hrad,' is one of, if not the most well-visited landmark in Prague. Since it used to be the home of Bohemian kings, it's among the most opulent places in the Czech capital. In fact, it's even listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest ancient castle in the world. The complex itself is pretty massive, home to many grand halls, striking cathedrals, and the like. It even houses the presidential residence as well. If you intend to explore everything about Prague Castle, make sure to keep a couple of days free. It'll take you more than 24 hours to see this palace and all its glory.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
St. Vitus Cathedral
You probably thought that the Gothic towers seen from a mile away make up the fairytale-like Prague Castle that many tourists visit in the city. Technically, those towers do belong to the Prague Castle complex, however, it's not necessarily the castle itself. The Gothic structure at the center of this
UNESCO World Heritage site is St. Vitus Cathedral, the largest Christian building in all of the Czech Republic. It's also the most historic as it's where many Bohemian kings and Czech saints are entombed. You can just feel the history in the air as you walk inside! You should also see the cathedral covered in snow
during winter. It's such a magical sight to see!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Old Royal Palace
Also part of the Prague Castle complex is The Old Royal Palace, the former residence of the country's royal family. Now, it's mainly used as the main presidential residence of the Czech Republic. Built at the turn of the 9th and 10th centuries, it's among the oldest state residences in the world, not to mention one of the oldest palaces in the Czech capital. And its most famous feature is the Vladislav Hall, a stately room where official events like inaugurations, grand balls, and more are held. Having retained its gothic interior, it's definitely the most visually striking part of the palace.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Queen Anne's Summer Palace
Standing out as the only Renaissance palace, not only in the Prague Castle complex but practically in all of Prague, Queen Anne's Summer Palace is a definite must-see. The 'Queen Anne' in the name is Anne Jagiellionica, wife of Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand I. Built between 1538 and 1560, Queen Anne actually barely used this palace herself when it was finally completed. Nevertheless, its stunning Ionic columns, well-manicured garden, and the singing fountain in the middle of the courtyard became a hit with guests and visitors. That's why the palace remains a popular tourist hotspot to this day.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Michael Brezocnik
Černín Palace
Located in Hradčany, also known as the 'castle district' among
Prague’s neighborhoods, Černín Palace stands out as the largest of the Baroque palaces in the city. In fact, this state building is worth visiting for its exterior alone! You can snap as many pictures as you like from the outside, particularly its stunning courtyard that looks straight out of a classic romance novel. The construction of the palace started back in 1660 but it took decades to complete it to how it is today. And currently, it serves as the headquarters for the country's foreign ministry.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Dobroš
Wallenstein Palace
Another Baroque palace worth visiting in Prague is the magnificent Wallenstein Palace and the history behind it is pretty extraordinary. Built around 1623-1630, it was supposed to serve as the main residence of Albrecht von Wallenstein, the Duke of Mecklenburg and Imperial Commander-in-Chief during the Thirty Years War. However, he was only able to live here up until 1634, the year he was assassinated on the orders of Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II, who feared the former's strong political power. Today, it serves as the Senate building of the Czech Republic and remains one of the most beautiful landmarks in the city.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Kinský Palace
The Rococo structure that is Kinský Palace is definitely a stand-out in the Old Town Square of Prague. Amidst a sea of medieval houses, bustling shopping districts,
luxury homes in Prague, and more, its pink and white stucco exterior will certainly grab your attention. You won't help but be drawn to the regal majesty of the place, becoming more and more intrigued as you step closer to the palace. It was built between 1755 and 1765 by the Golz family but was acquired by the Kinský family in 1768. Today, one of its most popular features is the state-owned art museum,
National Gallery Prague.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Tiia Monto
Žofín Palace
If you ever visit or even sail along the Vltava River in Prague, you'll likely spot a place yellow Neo-Renaissance structure perched by the banks. This is actually the Žofín Palace, one of the main tourist attractions in the New Town district of the city. Named after Princess Sophie, mother of Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I, it used to be a one-story structure that consists of a concert hall, social hall, and ballroom. It was acquired by the City of Prague back in 1884 and was constructed to be the two-story music hall that it is today. Many famous composers have performed here, such as Tchaikovsky, Berlioz, Liszt, and more.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Dezidor
Troja Palace
Finally, there's the Troja Palace, arguably the brightest of them all. Though it's a baroque structure, you can hardly tell of its actual style since its eye-popping white and orange hues instantly grab your attention. This unique color scheme is definitely far from the more somber neutral tones that most Baroque buildings, not just in Prague, but in all of Europe, are colored. Nevertheless, the memorable aesthetics don't stop there! Inside, beautiful frescoes that depict scenes from the Hapsburg dynasty make up most of the palace's interior. It's as if the entire place is a work of art in and of itself!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
A lot of the magnificence of Prague comes from its many palaces. Full of history, beauty, romance, and more, they're worth visiting when you're here. Most especially those notable landmarks you won't want to miss!
