The Prague Castle
Built in the 9th century, the Prague Castle was the seat of power of kings and emperors for centuries, and today it serves as the President of the Czech Republic’s office. Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and past presidents of Czechoslovakia have all ruled from the Prague Castle. The castle is believed to have been built on the spot of a medieval castle from the year 880. The castle has been fortified with a moat, stones, and walls; it comprises medieval churches dedicated to St. George and St. Vitus as well as the Church of Virgin Mary.
The castle covers an impressive surface area of 753,474 square feet and is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest ancient castle in the world.
The original structure was expanded and renovated over time by different rulers until the final modern touch in 1929. The Lobkowicz Palace, one of the many buildings in the complex, was built in 1550 inspired by Italian architecture; many of the churches and buildings have been influenced by styles from different parts of Europe.
A trip to the Prague Castle is like travelling across Europe, journeying in time, and witnessing the evolution of European architecture. Rich Gothic and Neo-Gothic architecture, Renaissance, and Baroque touches leave visitors spell-bound.
