Both romantic and mysterious, Vyšehrad witnessed the earliest days of the Bohemian Kingdom founded by the Přemyslid dynasty. Besides the authentic medieval spirit, it offers fascinating architecture scattered around its tranquil park and spectacular elevated views of Prague.
Vyšehrad
Ancient legends, historic landmarks and panoramic views
HIGHLIGHTS
- A seat of Bohemian kings until the 12th century - before Prague Castle
- Visit the imposing Saint Peter & Paul Basilica decorated with Art Nouveau frescoes
- Slavín Cemetery is the final resting place of many famous Czechs, including Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana
- Soak in amazing city views as the Vltava river calmly flows below
Unlike the touristy Prague Castle, Vyšehrad invites you to enjoy the millennia-old history of the city in a more quiet fashion. The name “Vyšehrad” refers both to the district of Prague (south of the New Town) and the ancient fortress towering on a rock within its boundaries.
According to the legend, this fortress was founded in the 10th century by Duke Krok – the father of the famous Princess Libuše. She was a clairvoyant, foretelling the future glory of Prague, and her marriage with Přemysl the ploughman gave birth to the first Bohemian ruling dynasty.
Vyšehrad flourished during the reign of Vratislav II, in the late 11th century, but soon Vladislav II moved the official royal residence to Pražský Hrad (Prague Castle), so it lost much of the original significance. In the 14th century Charles IV restored its former splendour, even turning Vyšehrad into the starting point of coronation processions, but after his death, this area developed more as a military fortress.
In any case, Vyšehrad is still closely linked with the Czech national identity – many sculptors, writers and artists drew inspiration from the legends associated with this wonderful spot. Besides, the Vyšehrad cemetery became the final resting place for hundreds of prominent Czech citizens, including Alfons Mucha, Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana.
Admire the slender spires of the Neo-Gothic St. Peter & Paul Basilica, as well as its Art Nouveau interior frescoes, visit the Vyšehrad Gallery showcasing paintings and graphics by promising local artists, and explore the underground casemates holding some of the original Charles Bridge sculptures.
Otherwise, just walk through the vast green park holding some hidden gems like the medieval Romanesque Chapel or the statues of Libuše and Přemysl, and take in the magnificent panoramas of Prague opening from the fortress walls.