Top 6 Monuments You Must Visit While on a Trip to Prague

Similar to the capital of the Czech Republic, one can easily say that Prague is a city that belongs to a fairytale in every way. Having its cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, baroque domes, and bridges that are hundreds of years old, this magical city makes one feel that he or she is going back in time. Prague can be described as a living museum that can perfectly epitomize the unchanging beauty of Europe from ancient castles to present-day architectural marvels.

The story to be told is found in every corner of this magic city. Be it a history lover, an architecture admirer or just a person, who would want to experience the aura of a truly romantic city, the monuments of Prague provide a rich and fascinating glimpse into the royal and cultural history.

Here is a list of the top 6 places of interest that you should visit when touring this memorable city-

1. Prague Castle 

Prague Castle stands at the top of a hill in the Hradcany district, and it is the largest complex of ancient castles in the world and the jewellery of Czech heritage. It is the seat of the Czech kings, emperors, and presidents for more than one thousand years.

This vast complex invites its visitors to enjoy the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral with its beautiful stained-glass windows and royal tombs, the Old Royal Palace with medieval atmosphere, and the colorful Golden Lane, inhabited by alchemists and the guards of the castle.

The castle grounds are also a panoramic view of the red rooftops of Prague and the river winding around the city especially during sunset. Prague Castle is a place that cannot be missed whether we are in day or night; it is a place that would give one the historical splendor of this city.

2. Charles Bridge 

There is no other iconic location in Europe like the Charles Bridge. This is a Gothic masterpiece constructed in the 14th century under the reign of Emperor Charles IV and joins the Old Town and the Lesser Town (Mala Strana).

The bridge is decorated with 30 baroque statues of saints each of which has its legend and history. It is a very magical experience to walk across it in the morning, at the time of daybreak or nightfall because the golden light, the reflection of the river called Vltava and the image of Prague Castle in the background makes the picture look like a painting.

The bridge is then filled with the vibrations of the sound, culture and energy of the local people, street musicians, painters and artisans during the day, which would transform it into an open air art gallery.

3. Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock 

The Old Town Square is the very heart of the Prague old town, the vibrant square with pastel-colored gothic and baroque houses, cafes, and street artists.

However, the most important attraction is the Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj), which is on the Old Town Hall. It was installed in 1410, and it is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world that is still in operation and is unbelievably precise.

Hourly, crowds of people come and view the mechanical performance of moving figures, apostles, and the skeleton of Death as he hits the bell. It is among the most renowned traditions of Prague, as well as one that still amazes tourists worldwide.

4. Vyšehrad Fortress

When you want to avoid the tourist trails a bit more, the Vysehrad Fortress is a peaceful and historical treasure, lying along the river of Vltava.

This ancient fort is dated to the 10th century, and it is believed that this was the first seat of Czech princes. Nowadays it is a tranquil park complex, which consists of the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Vysehrad Cemetery (the grave of Czech legends such as the composer Antonin Dvorak) and the ruins of ancient fortifications.

It provides spectacular views of the Prague skyline and is an excellent location to have a walk around the historical, natural, and artistic scenery in the afternoon.

5. Dancing House (Tan?ící d?m)

The Dancing House is the modern architecture representing creativity and movement, breaking the pattern of Prague full of Gothic and baroque architecture, the structure is also known as Fred and Ginger in memory of a well-known dance couple.

The building was designed by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic and was finished in 1996 and has one of the most eye-catching glass facades; the surge and twist like a dance. On the inside, there will be offices and a modern restaurant and on the top floor, there will be a rooftop bar with the panoramic views of the city.

It is an absolute must-see site for architectural design and photography enthusiasts, a living demonstration of how the city of Prague is able to support the modernist movement without losing the old world.

St. Nicholas Church

St. Nicholas Church is the most beautiful baroque church in Europe that is situated in the centre of Lesser Town (Mala Strana). It is an architectural masterpiece with its grand dome, elaborate frescoes and crystal chandeliers.

The church is a masterpiece constructed in the 18th century with its great organ, which used to be played by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Tourists are also able to go to the provisions of the church bell tower to have a panoramic view of the red-tiled roofs and the cramped streets of Prague.

Final Thoughts

The monuments of Prague are not merely historical monuments but eternal narrators which reflect the spirit of the centuries past. From the magnificent Prague Castle to the contemporary and stylish Dancing House, each construction is a glorification of art, history, and fantasy.

And therefore, as you continue strolling through the streets of this fairytale city, you should stop, look at the sky and allow the magic of Prague monuments to blow you away.