Vysehrad Citadel, Prague (must see)

Perched atop its rocky red-brick walls, Vyšehrad, or the "High Castle," boasts a wealth of myths that rival any other place in Bohemia. Legend has it that this is where the Slavs first made their home in Prague, with chieftain Krok erecting a castle, from which his youngest daughter, Libuše, would go on to establish the city of Prague itself. However, archaeological findings cast doubt on this tale. What remains today are the remnants of a fortified barracks erected by the Habsburgs, later repurposed into a public park.

Visitors can freely explore the fortress's northern entrance, while access to the adjacent dungeons, or "kasematy," comes with a charge. Upon delving into the underground passageways beneath the ramparts, a vast storage hall is revealed, housing a collection of original statues from Charles Bridge and, when darkness falls, unveiling a captivating camera obscura image of a tree.

In the southwestern corner of the fortress, within the Gothic cellar (also subject to a charge), a permanent exhibition delves into Vyšehrad's storied history. The rock's prominence in Czech history peaked in the 11th century when Přemysl Vratislav II, the first Bohemian ruler to hold the title "king," constructed a royal palace here to escape his younger brother's dominance at the Castle. However, within decades, the royal court relocated to Hradčany, leaving Vyšehrad to gradually diminish in political importance.

Why You Should Visit:
Prague's "second castle" may be less frequented, but it boasts a captivating history, intriguing architecture, and stunning vistas overlooking the Vltava River.

Tip:
Don't miss the opportunity to tour the dungeons (or "casemates"), home to a selection of original baroque statues from Charles Bridge, and be sure to request an English text for deeper insight into the site's rich past.