Is Prague Castle Gothic?

By Alice Nichols

There has been a lot of debate regarding the architectural style of Prague Castle. Some argue that it is Gothic, while others believe it is Baroque or even Renaissance. In this article, we will delve into the history and design of Prague Castle to determine what style it truly belongs to.

What is Prague Castle?

Prague Castle is a historic fortress located in the capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague. It was founded in the 9th century and has since served as the seat of power for various rulers and governments, including kings, emperors, and presidents.

The Architecture of Prague Castle

Prague Castle comprises several buildings and structures, each with its own unique architectural style. The most prominent features include St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and St. George’s Basilica.

St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral is arguably the most famous structure within Prague Castle. It was built over a period of 600 years, with construction starting in 1344 during the Gothic period and finishing in 1929 during the early 20th century.

The cathedral’s exterior features many classic Gothic elements such as pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. However, its interior design includes Baroque-style altars and chapels that were added during later renovations.

Old Royal Palace

The Old Royal Palace was built during the Romanesque period but underwent significant remodeling during the Gothic era. The palace’s most notable feature is its Vladislav Hall, which boasts vaulted ceilings with intricate ribbed patterns.

While much of its original Romanesque design has been lost due to numerous renovations over time, some elements such as arched windows can still be seen today. George’s Basilica

St. George’s Basilica is the best-preserved Romanesque building within Prague Castle. It was built in the 10th century and features rounded arches, barrel vaults, and ornate frescoes.

The basilica underwent a Baroque-style renovation in the 17th century, which added lavish decorations and sculptures to its interior.

So, Is Prague Castle Gothic?

After examining the various structures within Prague Castle, it is safe to say that it cannot be classified as belonging to one particular architectural style. Instead, Prague Castle is an amalgamation of several different styles that have been added over time.

While St. Vitus Cathedral showcases many classic Gothic features, its interior design also includes Baroque elements. The Old Royal Palace has elements of both Romanesque and Gothic architecture, while St. George’s Basilica has a primarily Romanesque design with Baroque embellishments.

In conclusion, Prague Castle cannot be defined by a single architectural style but rather represents the evolution of architecture throughout history. Its unique blend of styles makes it a truly fascinating and visually stunning landmark to visit.