A huge, ancient fortress stonily ribbons the hill rising above Prague’s Mala Strana (Little Quarter). Its massive walls and towers, and the soaring spires of Saint Vitus Cathedral, are visible from almost every quarter of the city. Here legend and archeological evidence converge: this has been the seat of Bohemian royalty since the 9th century. We are at Prague Castle, or simply “Hrad”, as it is known in Czech, residence of Czech Kings, Emperors, Habsburg monarchs and now, the President of the Czech Republic. We pass through its great gates, watched over in equal measure by two fierce stone Titans and somber presidential guards, and make our way through the Castle courtyards. Up ahead we catch sight of the glorious Saint Vitus Cathedral, and take in the grandeur of this exhilarating Gothic structure. Its towers and spires, stained glass and monstrous chimeras, were constructed over many centuries by a plethora of Europe’s most renowned artists, stonemasons and architects. Beyond the cathedral lies Golden Lane, the little medieval community originally built in the sixteenth century by perhaps the most melancholic and madly acquisitive of all the Habsburg emperors, Rudolf II. Legends surround this charming, miniscule collection of cottages wherein lived court-maintained alchemists and sorcerers – and not a few infamous charlatans – in pursuit of the philosopher’s stone. Moreover, for a short time in the early years of the twentieth century, Golden Lane was home to the world-famous author of Metamorphosis and The Trial, Franz Kafka. We end our tour with a meandering stroll through the grounds and beautifully landscaped gardens of Prague Castle.
Individual English speaking guide ( 4 hours ) — 80 euros
Group excursion ( 4 hours ) — 20 euros / person
Admission fees are not included / optional:
Prague Castle (St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, Golden Lane) — 11 euros / person
Golden Lane — 2 euros / person
