Vysehrad is one of the oldest places in the Czech Republic: the historic district and the fortress. It is better not to regret visiting it all day long. What can you see here? Buildings that are significant for Czechs, a beautiful park, a basilica, dungeons, viewing platforms, and many sculptures. Of course, there is an opportunity to have a bite to eat, to relax, and to listen to musicians.
The history of Vysehrad
The fortress was founded in the 10th century, and was the first center of the state. They say that Krok did it, who was the son of Cech, the founder of the country. At first, there was the residence of the princes, under whom the first buildings were erected. Over time, the main center shifted to Prague Castle, and the castle on the hill lost its former significance. The real revival of Vysehrad took place in the 14th century. under King Charles IY. In the 15th century. then a battle took place, where the brave Hussites defeated the king's troops. The Czechs care about their history, so you will see all the sights that have been preserved here.
Attractions Vysehrad
The gate is of historical interest: Taborskie, built in the 17th century. and the Leopoldovs, dating back to the 17th-18th centuries. Both are massive and seem to be designed to help the defenders of the fortress to reflect the attacks of enemies. But the baroque style also makes the gate very beautiful. The oldest building is a small rotunda of St. Martin, made in the Romanesque style. Interesting paintings have been preserved here. At a boarding school, starting from the 19th century. children and young people with disabilities are studying. Here they are helped not only to acquire the necessary knowledge, but also to adapt to a full life in society. The boarding school can also be viewed, but only in the evening, when classes are over.
In the New Deanery, a beautiful building dating back to the 19th century. a college of clergy is meeting. Most likely, you will be able to capture the deanery in photographs only from the outside. You need a special permit to get inside. The Devil's Pillars look funny - three stone pillars, whose tops rest on one another. In hot weather, the smell of sulfur is clearly felt here. Of course, many legends and beliefs are associated with this place. In the Old Burgraff, you can regularly listen to the performances of musicians. And it is especially pleasant to walk along the shady alleys of the Vysehrad Gardens in summer, when many flowers bloom here. Tourists are also happy to go down to the Gothic underground to see a kind of museum of ancient finds. Visitors to Vysehrad also like to take pictures of the well, which has a long history. Today it has been restored and fenced so that no one accidentally falls into it.
The sculptures of Vysehrad depict real historical characters and heroes of legends. The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul makes a huge impression; its final reconstruction was completed in the first years of the 20th century. The basilica is beautiful both outside and inside - here tourists will see shining stained glass windows and wonderful paintings. Another site worth visiting is the local cemetery. It is a great honor to be buried here, which is why the graves of the most famous inhabitants of the Czech Republic are located here. The cemetery is carefully looked after, and many of the monuments are made by renowned sculptors. And in the local casemates there are several sculptures, copies of which decorate the Charles Bridge. Going down here, you will admire the originals. And finally, the Brick Gate, where you can visit the museum and get acquainted with the highlights of the history of the Vysehrad Fortress.
[leveltravel country = ”CZ” city = ”Prague”]
How to get there on your own
You can get to the Vysehrad Fortress by trams 6, 7, 18 and 24, as well as by bus 21. You need to get off at the Vysehrad stop. The station of the Red metro line is also called.
