What’s It Like To Live In The Castle
The benefits of living next to Prague Castle.
How many of us get to say that they are living in the Castle District?
I do — just like Princess Peach. I live in the most visited area in Prague. It’s impossible not to fall in love with this area — it often feels like traveling several centuries back in time.
There are amazing things to do and explore for everyone.
You can experience a romantic atmosphere in nearby parks, discover cozy cafés with local pastry, visit galleries and museums, and admire the architecture. But most importantly — you are surrounded by Prague Castle.
This castle is said to be the biggest castle in the world, dating back to the 9th century and also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Are you jealous yet?
I love to go for my morning walk with my dogs roaming the castle grounds. Going in early not only means you’ll have the bridge to yourself, but you also get to be surrounded by that iconic sunrise along the Vltava river.
On my morning walk through the castle complex, I always follow my royal routine.
Admire the Saint Vitus Cathedral
When I bypass the first courtyard, I’m immediately struck with the image of a masterpiece — Saint Vitus Cathedral, looming overhead. St. Vitus is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Prague and whose silhouette creates the iconic skyline when looking up at Prague Castle from below.
The building of Saint Vitus Cathedral began in 1344. The construction of the cathedral finished in 1929. So, yes, it took over 600 years! It is the largest temple in Prague, a mix of Gothic and Neo-Gothic architecture, and the place where coronations of the Czech kings and queens took place.
I usually take some time to wander around the church’s exterior. I always respectfully say “Good morning” to my favorite gargoyles which hang over the roof, along with dragons, scorpions, and musicians.
After all, they are there to protect the complex and its visitors from the evil forces. It is good to have them on my side.
Check my Jewels in the Royal Palace
The Royal palace is one of the oldest parts of the castle complex. It was built on the remains of the original structure dating back to the 9th century. The best part is the Gothic hall with its beautiful Gothic vaulted ceiling.
This was the place where once the kings and queens of Prague hosted feasts, balls, and markets. It also holds the crown jewels of the empire, including the Czech Crown. There is a legend that anyone who takes the crown as a false king would die within a year.
During World War II, Reinhard Hedrick did this and within a year was assassinated.
Once every five years public can admire the display of the castle’s jewels. There is no point in even thinking of stealing these jewels as they are well secured. The keys to those are held by seven people, among which are the president, the prime minister, and the archbishop.
The only way to get into the safe is to have all the seven keys, and getting those keys is mission impossible.
When bypassing the Royal Palace and checking my reflection in the mirrors, I tend to imagine myself wrapped in this royal jewelry. Life cannot be better…
Walk down the Golden Lane
My favorite coffee shop is located in Golden Lane. A picturesque street filled with small colorful houses built in the 16th century mainly for the castle guards. In the 19th century, they were open up to the citizens of Prague, some of its residents very quite famous.
Literary icon Franz Kafka lived in house number 22 and film historian Josef Kazda lived at number 12. He is known for saving thousands of films and documentaries from the Nazis during World War II.
Nobel Prize-winning writer and poet Jaroslav Seifert also lived on Golden Lane but his house was unfortunately demolished. I always say my goodbyes to these famous residents and head towards the Royal Gardens.
Have Breakfast at Royal Gardens
There are seven gardens surrounding Prague Castle but the royal garden is historically the most important of them. The garden was built up during the reign of Ferdinand I.
The most prominent facility in the garden is the royal summer residence. It was built in the 16th century and is a mixture of renaissance and gothic styles. There is a place which served to keep exotic animals which were gifts from Kings of other countries, nowadays it is a restaurant.
I imagine — these gardens used to be a place, where the king and his family relaxed and played games. Now, I am here — admiring the incredible display of fountains, manicured hedges, and flowers. How lucky I am?
The garden is especially beautiful in spring and summer when all plants bloom. It is a great place for soulful relaxation, but it is a perfect spot for breakfast.
Enjoy The Royal Neighborhood
I live just a few minutes walk from the Castle complex. The district was an independent division until 1784, and because this area was located beside Prague Castle it held the status of being a so-called royal town. Because of this status, residents living here were wealthy and therefore were able to afford to hire the best artists who created some of the most stunning buildings and villas.
There is so much discover — Art Nouveau villas with folklore motifs, grand mansions, as well as the lovely Governor’s Summer Palace, overlooking Stromovka Park — the oldest and most extensive park in Prague. In the park, I stroll past ponds, horse ride, and take breaks under century-old oaks. Sometimes I hop onto the ferry to the green neighborhood of Troja, where I visit the Botanical Gardens or Prague Zoo.
It is so easy to simply walk around aimlessly and admire all of these romantic and picturesque structures. Did I mention there is also a nearby vineyard that is always open to the public?
In general, the area is spectacular.
It is a very calm and silent quarter, ideal for families and creative souls. It’s a charming neighborhood full of stylish buildings and gardens that are today home to embassies and diplomatic residences.
When I just have to skip my breakfast at castle grounds, I do not worry. I can always have brunch with my other prominent neighbor — the US Ambassador.
I’ve realized the ultimate truth — it’s not that great to live in the castle.
It far better to live next to it.
Thank you for reading.
