The Old Royal Palace is one of the landmarks located on the territory of Prague Castle. In addition to the fact that it is a rather rare example of late Gothic secular architecture, its walls are remembered by many Czech rulers - it was here that from the 12th to the beginning of the 16th century the main royal residence was located. To this day, it is not only a tourist attraction, but also a place where the fate of the country is decided - it is here that presidential elections and especially important meetings are held.
History of the Old Royal Palace
The first buildings on the site of the Old Royal Palace appeared in the 11th century - it was a small princely residence made of wood. However, already in 1135, by order of Prince Sobeslav, the stone construction of the building in the Romanesque style began. The palace now not only played the role of a princely house, but was also part of the system of fortifications of the Prague Castle and its significance was quite great. It was from this time until the 16th century that the rulers of the Czech Republic lived here.
Almost every one of them made a contribution to the appearance of the palace - someone of his own free will. And someone just had to do it. For example, during the reign of Přemysl Ottakar II, the complex was almost completely rebuilt and acquired a Gothic appearance. Unfortunately, soon, in 1303, a fire broke out in the building and it was completely destroyed. Another global reconstruction was carried out under Charles IV and his son Wenceslas IV - at this time the magnificent Crown Hall was added. The old royal palace acquired its modern look in the 15th century, under Vladislav II. It was during his reign that the famous Vladislav Hall, Vladislav's bedroom and Ludwig's wing appeared.
Ludwig's Wing and North Wing
The Wing of Ludwig, built by Vladislav II for his son, can in fact be regarded as a separate palace - the first in the Czech Republic built in the Renaissance style. At the same time, it cannot be said that its appearance does not fit into the general Gothic style of the complex. Moreover, the interior decoration is still inspired by the traditions and norms of late European Gothic. Ludwig Jagiellonsky himself practically did not live in the Old Royal Palace - he ascended the throne very early, at the age of 10, and the country was actually ruled by the court chancellery. It was located in the wing built for the royal heir. At the age of 20, Ludwig was killed in the war, he left no heirs behind him - the Jagiellonian dynasty was buried with him, and the Czech throne passed to the Habsburgs.
After that, the Old Royal Palace lost its former significance and was practically forgotten. Only in 1766 did Maria Theresa pay attention to him. A wing-passage was built, which was later called the Northern one, connecting the Renaissance palace of Ludwig and the building of the Institute for Noble Maidens. By the way, it was in this educational institution that her daughter served as abbess - perhaps this was the reason for such steadfast royal attention. Today, in the wing of Maria Theresa, there is a rather interesting exhibition dedicated to the creative arts.
Opening hours and ticket price
In summer (from April to October), the Old Royal Palace opens its doors at 9-00 and is open until 17-00. In winter (from November to March) it stops working an hour earlier, at 16-00. A visit to the "History of Prague Castle" exposition will cost 140 CZK. Sightseeing tour of the palace - at 250. The combined ticket includes a discount and costs 350 CZK.
[leveltravel country = ”CZ” city = ”Prague”]
How to get there on your own
The Old Royal Palace is located on the territory of the Prague Castle (in the third courtyard). The most convenient way to get here is by tram number 22, the nearest stop is Prazsky hrad. The Malostranska metro station is also nearby.
