Happy Steps travel blog

Scenic views from the Vyšehrad Castle in Prague

Continued from Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at Vysehrad Castle, Prague

View of the Vltava River as seen from Vysehrad Castle.

Walking along the grounds of an ancient castle such as Vyšehrad in Prague, one can’t help but imagine its glorious past when royal families used to make this as their residence. The castle complex is situated on a hill, thus it is aptly named as “castle on the heights.”

Since it is highly elevated, another treat for its visitors, aside from the historical buildings and artifacts within, are the scenic views as seen from its outer walls. While visitors can take delight in a relaxed atmosphere of nature as they tour around, lounging in one of the benches, reading a book or having picnic on a quiet spot, they can also enjoy breathtaking views of the Vltava River or Prague’s buildings below.

Picturesque Prague cityscape.

The castle walls where visitors can view what’s down below.

Tired or just want to sit down and enjoy the view? Benches are strewn everywhere in the castle grounds.

Tinkering with the phone while having a beer… what a way to unwind!

Reading a book by the castle wall… cool, huh.

I love looking at the buildings below!

Another scenic view of the Vltava River

——-
FURTHER COMMENTS ARE DISABLED due to SPAM. If you have something important to tell me, just send an email to happysteps1107 @ yahoo dot com. Thanks and wishing you more happy travels ahead!

Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at Vysehrad Castle, Prague

Continued from The Vyšehrad Castle in Prague

You just can’t get enough of the beautiful and imposing Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at the Vysehrad Castle in Prague.

Right side view of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

This 19th century church is Neo-Gothic in style. You can’t miss gazing up at the church’s twin spires which identify the Vysehrad Castle when viewed from afar.

Inside the Basilica

The main altar

The hallway at the right side of the church

Continue reading… »

The Vyšehrad Castle in Prague

One of Prague’s remarkable and beautiful buildings, the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at Vysehrad Castle, Prague.

Overlooking the Vltava River on a hill is Vyšehrad, an ancient castle in Prague built in the 10th century also known as “castle on the heights”.

Map of Vysehrad castle grounds posted at the information board (click for larger image, refer to Map Legend at the end of this post)

We started our tour at the Brick (Prague) Gate and hiked our way to the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.

Entrance to the Vysehrad Castle via the Brick (Prague) Gate which can be accessed from Vratislavova street.

The Brick (Prague) Gate as seen from inside the castle grounds

Hidden within the Vysehrad castle fortress are vaulted chambers also known as casemates which can be accessed via the Brick Gate. The largest area in the Vysehrad casemates is the Gorlice – Subterranean Hall, which used to be a storage room for food and weapons. Presently, it is where the original statues of St. Augustine, St. Nicholas, St. Bernard and others from the Charles Bridge are kept.
Continue reading… »

Eye-catching illumination inside historical buildings

Castles, churches and other historical buildings are usually on my top travel destinations. Aside from being interested with the architecture of the building and the exterior details, going inside can be even more breathtaking. For instance the interiors of the cathedrals such as the St. Vitus Cathedral and the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul at the Vysehrad Castle are elaborately done, with the detailed chapels at the sides decorated with statues or paintings and other interesting artifacts. Not to miss are the beautiful hanging lamps and chandeliers which provide a subdued mood.

Chandelier inside the St. Vitus Cathedral at the Prague Castle

Hanging lamps provide a quiet mood for contemplation at the church of Sts. Peter and Paul at the Vysehrad Castle

Chandeliers and other stylish lighting fixtures lend an artistic touch to a room, aside from providing mood lighting. They’re even considered as art centerpieces to hotels and some homes. Finding one for your home can’t be that easy though since they should complement the room’s look.
Continue reading… »

At the medieval Turku Castle

Visiting castles would always be on the travel itinerary of tourists when going to Europe. It’s like stepping into the days of kings and queens, or imagining you’re part of a fairy tale. Getting inside the medieval castle of Turku acquaints the visitor of Finland’s rich culture and history, each stair or doorway leading to more interesting rooms and displays.

The Renaissance castle exterior (or bailey) was constructed during the 15th to 16th centuries, while its main building (or keep) dates back to the early 14th century. The castle was subjected to some damage during World War II, but was gradually restored to its original grandeur through the years, afterwhich its ownership was entrusted to the Finnish state and presently managed by the City of Turku.
Continue reading… »