South Tower Prague Castle

The Iconic South Tower Of Prague Castle

The South Tower of Prague Castle is one of the most prominent and recognizable landmarks in the city of Prague, Czech Republic. This tower is part of the larger Prague Castle complex, which is considered to be one of the largest and most important castles in the world. The South Tower stands at over 79 meters tall and is the tallest tower within the complex. Built-in the late 14th century, the South Tower of Prague Castle has played an important role throughout the history of Prague. Originally built as a watchtower to protect the castle from invaders, the tower has since been used for various purposes over the centuries. During the Renaissance, the tower was used as a scientific observatory, and in the 19th century, it was even used as a prison.

Today, the South Tower is a popular tourist attraction and offers breathtaking views of the city of Prague. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and take in the stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. The climb to the top is not for the faint of heart, as it involves climbing over 280 stairs, but the view is definitely worth the effort. One of the most interesting features of the South Tower is its unique Gothic architecture. The tower is adorned with ornate carvings, intricate stonework, and beautiful stained glass windows. The tower also features a bell, which is known as the "Sigismund Bell" and is one of the largest bells in the world.

Things to Explore in South Tower Prague Castle

Climb to the top Of South Tower

Visitors can climb the tower's 280+ stairs to reach the top, where they can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Prague and the surrounding area.

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The Bell At South Tower Prague Castle

The South Tower is home to the "Sigismund Bell," one of the largest bells in the world. Visitors can admire its impressive size and the intricate carvings that adorn it.

Gothic Architecture of South Tower

The tower's Gothic architecture is a sight to behold, with intricate stonework, ornate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows.

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Golden Lane In Prague Castle

The base of the tower is home to the "Golden Lane," a small alleyway that is steeped in legend and folklore. Visitors can explore the lane and learn about its history and stories.

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Exhibitions At Prague Castle

The South Tower often features exhibitions that showcase its history and importance, as well as the history of Prague Castle and the Czech Republic as a whole.

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Historical significance

The South Tower has played an important role in the history of Prague and the Czech Republic, from its origins as a watchtower to its use as a scientific observatory and a prison. Visitors can explore its many historical layers and learn about its significance.

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Cultural importance

Prague Castle is an important cultural centre in the Czech Republic, and the South Tower is a key part of this heritage. Visitors can learn about the castle's cultural significance and its place in Czech history and culture.

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Facts of South Tower Prague Castle

The South Tower is the tallest tower within the Prague Castle complex, standing at over 79 meters tall.
It was built in the late 14th century as a watchtower to protect the castle from invaders.
The tower was used as a scientific observatory during the Renaissance and as a prison in the 19th century.
Visitors can climb to the top of the tower, which involves climbing over 280 stairs, to take in stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
The tower features unique Gothic architecture of Prague, including ornate carvings, intricate stonework, and beautiful stained glass windows.
The tower is adorned with a bell, known as the "Sigismund Bell," which is one of the largest bells in the world.
The tower is steeped in legend and folklore, including the legend of the "Golden Lane," a small alleyway at the base of the tower where alchemists supposedly attempted to create gold from base metals.
The South Tower is part of the larger Prague Castle complex, which is considered to be one of the largest and most important castles in the world.
The South Tower has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including the film "Amadeus" and the TV series "The Crown."
The tower has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, including a major restoration in the 20th century to repair damage caused during World War II.

Know Before You Go to South Tower Prague Castle

Essential Information

How To Reach

Location: The South Tower is located within the Prague Castle complex in the Hradčany district of Prague, Czech Republic.

Opening hours: The tower is typically open to visitors from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (April - October) and 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (November - March), but hours may vary depending on the season and specific events.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the South Tower of Prague Castle is during the early morning hours, right after it opens to visitors. This way, you can beat the crowds and have more space to move around and take in the stunning views of Prague from the top of the tower. Additionally, visiting during the off-season (November to March) can also be a good idea, as the crowds tend to be smaller during this time, and you may have a more peaceful and enjoyable visit. However, keep in mind that the weather may be colder and the opening hours may be shorter during the off-season, so it is important to check in advance.

By Walking: You can walk to the castle through the beautiful and historic streets of Prague. It's a steep climb up the hill, but it is a popular and picturesque route for visitors.

By Public Transport: You can take the metro to the Malostranska stop and then take a tram or walk up the hill to the castle. The closest tram stop is Prazsky Hrad, which is just a short walk away from the castle entrance.

By Taxi: You can also take a taxi to the castle, but be sure to choose a reputable taxi company and confirm the price before getting into the car.

FAQ’s

What is the history of the South Tower?

The South Tower has a rich history, dating back to the 14th century. Originally built as a watchtower to defend the castle, it has served many purposes over the centuries, including as a scientific observatory and a prison.

Can you climb to the top of the tower?

Yes, visitors can climb the tower's over 280 stairs to reach the top, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Prague and the surrounding area. However, it is important to note that there is no elevator or alternative means of access to the top, and the climb can be strenuous and involve narrow staircases and low ceilings.

What is the admission fee to enter the South Tower?

To enter the South Tower, visitors must purchase an admission ticket to the Prague Castle complex, which includes access to all the major sights within the castle, including the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane. The cost of the admission fee varies depending on the type of ticket and the time of day, but generally ranges from 250-350 CZK (about 11-16 USD).

What are the best times to visit the South Tower?

The best time to visit the South Tower is during the early morning hours, right after it opens to visitors. This way, you can beat the crowds and have more space to move around and take in the stunning views of Prague from the top of the tower. Additionally, visiting during the off-season (November to March) can also be a good idea, as the crowds tend to be smaller during this time.

Is the South Tower accessible to visitors with disabilities?

Unfortunately, the climb to the top of the South Tower involves over 280 stairs, so it may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues or who have trouble with stairs. There is no elevator or other alternative means of access to the top of the tower. However, the base of the tower and Golden Lane are accessible to wheelchair users, and there are accessible restrooms available within the Prague Castle complex.