VYSEHRAD

© Herbert Heissler 7.2.2010

Areal of Premyslids Castle Site, Gothic Castle, Later Baroque Fort — National cultural monument
This was originally Chrasten Castle, which was established at some time in the 10th century, that also became a Premyslids mint and the first Czech King Vratislav even dwelled here for a while. Vyšehrad's importnace was diminishing from the second half of the 12th century but Charles IV. Rekindled its fame when he built a Gothic Palace here with new fortifications. Unfortunately, most of the buildings were destroyed when the Hussites defeated Zikmund. It was finally rebuilt into a Baroque fort after 1650.

There are many historical buildings in the Vyšehrad areal. For example St. Peter and Pavel Capitular Cathedral — see its own entry , St. Martin Romanic Rotunda - see its own entry , cemetery with Slavín - see its own entry , casemates of the Baroque fort - see its own entry , foundations and remains of Romanic and Gothic buildings as well as constructions from newer times. Vyšehrad also offers extensive parks with sculptures, views over Prague and a summer amphitheatre. The Vyšehrad Gallery exhibits painitngs, sculptures and photographies.