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VYSEHRAD: A GUIDED TOUR OF THE CASTLE THAT DID NOT SURVIVE

  • Writer: Dagmar Hujerová
    Dagmar Hujerová
  • Mar 9, 2024
  • 3 min read

Vysehrad holds a special place in my heart. When I first moved to Prague 15 years ago, it quickly became my favorite spot in the city. However, as time passed, I somehow forgot about it amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. Recently, by pure chance, I revisited Vysehrad and rediscovered its forgotten beauty. Join me on a comprehensive guided tour of Vysehrad, where we explore the rich history and stunning views that this hidden gem has to offer.


Vyšehrad in the glow of evening lamps


MAIN SIGHTS


The Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul

The basilica stands as a symbol of Vysehrad's spiritual significance. Its majestic twin towers dominate the skyline, drawing visitors to explore its intricate Gothic architecture and ornate interior. Within its walls lie the tombs of many notable figures from Czech history, adding to its allure as a place of reverence and remembrance.


Interior of the Basilica of St. Peter and Paul


The Rotunda of St. Martin

The Rotunda of St. Martin stands as one of the oldest surviving structures in Vysehrad. This cylindrical church, dating back to the 11th century, serves as a testament to the area's early Christian roots and architectural ingenuity.


Exterior of St. Martin's Rotunda in summer


Acropolis

The ancient Acropolis of Vysehrad, with its remnants of fortifications and ramparts, offers panoramic views of Prague and serves as a reminder of the strategic importance of this hilltop stronghold throughout the centuries.


Cemetery

The Vysehrad Cemetery serves as the final resting place for many prominent Czech figures, including composers, artists, and politicians such as Bedřich Smetana or Karel Čapek, adding a sense of solemnity and reverence to this historic site.


Majestic tombs in the Vyšehrad cemetery


Casemates & lapidarium

Vysehrad is not just a fortress; it's also home to intriguing underground casemates and tunnels, once used for storage, fortifications, and even as a prison. If you decide to go on a guided tour of Vysehrad with us, you can explore these mysterious passageways, imagining the secrets they hold and the stories they conceal. Within the casemates lies the Lapidarium, where original statues from Charles Bridge and other historical sculptures are preserved and displayed. This collection of Baroque sculptures in a large underground hall makes it one of the most mysterious and perhaps ominous places I've encountered in Prague so far.


Underground hall with original Charles Bridge sculptures


CULTURE


In the summertime Vysehrad hosts an open air theater of Studio Dva. Besides this check the official website of Vysehrad in English for more events!


It is a shame this gallery has been closed for over a year now, as it was giving chance to young Czech artist. Let’s hope it’s gonna be open soon?


The beautifully decorated entrance door of the Basilica of St. Peter and Paul


SHOPPING


Do you want an original souvenir from Prague and contribute to a good thing? Check the store of Jedličkův institute is an organization that takes care of disabled children. If you want to support them you can visit their store located in Vysehrad.


Gifts in the shop of Jedličkova Institute


FOOD & DRINKS


Charming café I've been walking around for a long time until I finally tried it, and I haven't experienced such friendly service in a long time. I appreciate it! By the way, you can roast sausages over the open fire here. I don't know about you, but I don't need more information to be convinced that this is a place to go!


Refreshing iced coffee in the cafe U Vratislava


Every time I hear the word “bistro” rather than quality cousine, I expect a simple sandwich or a cake. I was very surprised by the quality of food in Bystro cafe, it exceeded quality of most restaurants in Prague. My chicken leg with oven baked potatoes and boiled corn were just perfect.


Prague has amazing beer culture and beautiful beer gardens. Here I am not affraid to say that this one belongs to the top 3 in town and its the least touristy that the Riegrovy Sady and Letna beer garden.


This restaurant makes delicious traditional Czech food and became famous for their Kulajda, traditional Czech „dill soup“.


The famous dill soup at the U Kroka restaurant


A guided tour of Vysehrad with Feed Me Prague

If you're interested in a private guided tour of Vysehrad, please don't hesitate to contact us. We can discuss the options and find the best time for your visit, taking into account the opening hours to ensure you make the most out of your experience.








 
 
 

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