Visegrad

Visegrad is one of the oldest fortresses in the Czech Republic, as well as the historical center of Prague. The fortress is located on a hill with a stunning view of the Czech capital.

History of the fortress

The fortress began to be built in the 10th century for protection. Vysehrad at that time was one of the country's political centers, the other was on the opposite side of the river in Prague Castle. Coins minted here, churches built, and a number of reforms of Vratislav II allowed the clergy of the fortress to separate the Prague bishopric and become independent. After the construction of the fortress in the 11th century, its significance fell.

Everything changed after Charles IV came to power, when Prague became the residence of the emperors of the Holy Roman Empire. Large-scale construction work began in the city, and the emperor also wanted to revive the former greatness of Visegrad. To do this, he restored the Royal Palace, improved the security of the fortress, and also connected it to the new area of the Nouve-Mesto ( laid in 1348 ). By decree of Charles IV, it was possible to get into the city from the south side only by passing Visegrad. They demolished the old church and built a new basilica. The solemn procession at the coronation of Czech kings now began here and, passing through several areas of the city, ended in Prague Castle. Moreover, each king should have given a bow to the founder of the first princely dynasty of Czech kings Przemysl. According to legend, the first prince was a simple plowman, and the clairvoyant and princess of the Czech tribe, Libushe, who later became his wife, erected him on the throne. Shoes and a bag formerly owned by the first prince of Czechs were stored in the fortress. Similarly, kings should have understood that their ancestor was a simple farmer.

After the death of the emperor, interest in Visegrad fell sharply and now the area developed only as a fortress. In the 17th century, the fortress was rebuilt, and in 1866 it was closed. Later it was decided that in the cemetery at the basilica it would be possible to bury only outstanding personalities of the country.

Attractions

There are many interesting attractions. Among them is the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, which over its history has been completely rebuilt several times and acquired a completely different look. According to legend, King Vratislav II wanted the temple to look like the Temple of St. Peter in the Vatican, for this he requested permission from the Pope. Having received it, he built a temple that looked like Vatican even decoration. Later, during one of the battles, the temple was badly damaged, then rebuilt several times. The current type of basilica acquired in 1885 after reconstruction.

To see Prague, you need to go to the observation deck, with which a stunning view of the city opens. Particular attention should be paid to the gates of the fortress, made in different eras and different styles. In the fortress there is a rotunda of St. Martin, erected back in the 11th century, but preserved in good condition. Inside you can see ancient frescoes. No less interesting will be numerous monuments and sculptures of Visegrad.