More
Prague Castle
tips & insights

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Changing of the Guard

This ceremony takes place daily at noon in the First Courtyard.

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Guided tour recommended

Unlike most large castles, this one does not require you to take a guided tour (though you must pay an admission fee). Still, it's wise to go on a guided or private tour lest you miss out on the many interesting historical and architectural nuances.

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Defenestration

Prague Castle is infamous for being the scene of many 17th century acts of defenestration. This word defines getting rid of people you don't want by throwing them out a window (in this case, palace windows).

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Construction

The castle evolved from a 9th century wooden fortress into a massive stone citadel while undergoing various stages of deterioration, rebuilding and enlargement. The most recent major renovations were championed by Empress Marie Theresa in the 18th century. Her touches gave Prague Castle the somewhat Baroque chateau look we see today. The structure is a sprawling complex of connected buildings. Unlike most castles, it is more linear than vertically oriented.

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Click

Prague Castle - Page one

for more pointers

Cesky Krumlov

Charles Bridge

Karlsbad

Kutna Hora

Marienbad

Olomouc

Prague Old Town

Czech wonder home page

Czech honorable mentions

Famous festivals

Czech Republic fact sheet

Photo gallery

Basic Czech phrases

Czech cuisine

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CzechTourism

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