History
Vyšehrad is a castle located in the city of Prague, in the Czech Republic. It is situated on a hill overlooking the Vltava River, and is one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks in the country. The castle dates back to the 10th century, and has played a significant role in the history of Prague and the Czech Republic. Vyšehrad literally translates to “Upper Castle”.
The origins of Vyšehrad can be traced back to the early tenth century, when the castle was built by the Czech king Vratislaus I, who ruled Bohemia at the time. The castle was originally built as a military fortification, and was intended to protect Prague and the surrounding area from invasions by foreign enemies. Over time, the castle became a significant center of power and political influence in Bohemia, and was often the residence of the ruling monarchs.
Throughout its history, Vyšehrad has undergone numerous renovations and expansions. In the 13th century, King Přemysl Otakar II added the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, which still stands today as one of the main landmarks of the Vyšehrad complex. King Otakar II also added a Romanesque palace to the castle, which served as the seat of the Bohemian monarchy for many years. In the 16th century, the castle was renovated and transformed into a Renaissance-style fortress, with the addition of new towers and fortifications.
The last Bohemian monarch to use Vyšehrad as a residence was King Charles IV, who reigned from 1346 to 1378. He made several additions and renovations to the complex, including the construction of the Gothic-style Vyšehrad Cathedral, which replaced the earlier Romanesque-style Church of Saints Peter and Paul.
The Church of Saints Peter and Paul
The most significant structure in Vyšehrad is the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, a Romanesque-style church, that dominates the complex. It was founded in the 11th century and has undergone multiple renovations and additions over the centuries, including a major renovation in the 19th century.
The church has a rich history and is closely associated with many important events in Czech history. For example, it is believed that the first king of Bohemia, Vratislaus I, was buried in the church in the 10th century. In the 14th century, the church was the site of the coronation of King Charles IV, who was one of the most powerful and influential monarchs in Czech history.
The interior of the church is decorated with a variety of art and architectural features from different periods, including Gothic frescoes, Baroque altarpieces, and Rococo sculptures. The church also contains the tombs of several notable figures, including the Czech composer Antonín Dvořák and the Czech politician Karel Kramář, who some sources say is buried in Olšanské hřbitovy a few miles away.
The Church of Saints Peter and Paul is the significant landmark of the Vyšehrad complex and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Its striking architecture and historical significance make it one of the most important Romanesque-style churches in the Czech Republic.
Vyšehrad Cemetery
Vyšehrad Cemetery is a cemetery located in Vyšehrad. It is the final resting place of many notable figures in Czech history, including:
- Milada Horáková, Freedom fighter, murdered by the communists
- Antonín Dvořák, a renowned Czech composer
- Bedřich Smetana, another renowned Czech composer
- Karel Čapek, a celebrated Czech writer and playwright
- Alfons Mucha, a famous Czech painter and decorative artist
- Jan Neruda, a Czech writer and journalist
- Božena Němcová, a renowned Czech writer and pioneer of Czech literature
The cemetery is also home to the Vyšehrad National Cultural Monument, which includes the Vyšehrad Castle and Basilica, and several other historical buildings and sites
Vyšehrad Cemetery is known for its beautiful park-like setting and its impressive collection of graves and memorials. It is a popular tourist destination in Prague and is also a popular place for locals to visit for leisure and recreation. In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the cemetery is also an essential place for the preservation of natural habitats and species in the city.
If you are interested in visiting Vyšehrad Cemetery, it is open to the public and can be accessed by public transportation or by foot. It is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, and it is a unique way to learn more about the history and culture of Prague and the Czech Republic.
Currently
Today, Vyšehrad is a popular tourist attraction in Prague, and is visited by thousands of people each year. The complex is open to the public, and visitors can explore the grounds, which include a number of historic buildings and landmarks, such as:
- The Romanesque basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul.
- The Gothic chapel of St. Martin.
- The rotunda of St. Martin.
The castle also has a number of museums and galleries, including the National Cultural Monument, which contains a collection of Czech art and cultural artifacts.
Grounds and views
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Vyšehrad is also known for its beautiful gardens and parkland, which offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The castle is located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River, and the gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
From the western wall there are beautiful views of the Vltava river, to the west and south. From the northern wall, you will see a good portion of the city of Prague, all the way to Prague Castle, Petřín Tower. It is easy to see, from these viewpoints, why Prague is known as the “City of a Hundred Spires”.
Summary
Vyšehrad has played a significant role in the history of Prague and the Czech Republic, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the region. Whether you are interested in history, art, or just want to enjoy the beautiful gardens and parkland, Vyšehrad is a place that has something for everyone. So, it is a great place to spend a day and learn about the history of Prague and the Czech Republic.
The complex is open year around from 10:00 to 18:00 daily, the buildings, and Gallery hours will vary on Holidays. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul is closed to tourists during regularly scheduled services, as well as special occasions, like weddings and funerals. For more information, visit the website.
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