How Old Is the Prague Castle?

By Robert Palmer

The Prague Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks of the Czech Republic. It has been a witness to centuries of history and has stood the test of time.

But how old is the Prague Castle? Let’s delve into its history and find out.

The Beginnings

The Prague Castle was founded in the 9th century by Prince Bořivoj of the Premyslid dynasty, who ruled Bohemia at that time. The castle was originally made of wood and fortified with earthen walls. It served as a seat of power for the ruling princes, who were later succeeded by kings.

The Middle Ages

In the 12th century, King Vladislav I ordered the reconstruction of the castle in stone. It was during this time that many of its iconic structures were built, including St. Vitus Cathedral, which took over 600 years to complete. The castle also served as a royal residence and a center for political and cultural activities.

The Renaissance Period

During the Renaissance period, from the 16th century onwards, many Italian architects were invited to Bohemia to work on various projects including those at the Prague Castle. The famous Spanish Hall was added during this period as well as several other buildings such as summer palaces and gardens.

Baroque Era

In the 17th century, during the Baroque era, further additions were made to the castle complex. Notably, Matthias Gate was added along with several other buildings such as Schwarzenberg Palace and Theresian Wing.

Modern Times

In modern times, during World War II, many parts of the castle complex suffered damage due to bombings by Allied forces. However, extensive reconstruction efforts have been undertaken since then to restore it to its former glory.

Conclusion

So how old is the Prague Castle? The answer is that it has been standing for over a thousand years, with its origins dating back to the 9th century.

Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous reconstructions and additions, each leaving its mark on this magnificent structure. Today, the Prague Castle remains one of the most visited tourist attractions in the Czech Republic and a symbol of its rich cultural heritage.