Černá věž Tower
The Black Tower, also known as the Golden Tower, is a significant four-sided stone tower located at the eastern entrance to Prague Castle, approached by the Old Castle Stairs. Although it has undergone various modifications, it retains the character of a medieval castle tower from the 12th century. It is the only completely preserved tower from the original Romanesque fortification of Prague Castle.
The tower was built as a gatehouse around 1135, when Prince Soběslav I moved his residence back from Vyšehrad. Three similar towers, Black, White, and Southern, guarded the three entrances to the castle. In the 13th century, the gate was walled up and the tower received a spire. Under Charles IV, the spire was covered with a gilded tin roof, earning the tower the Golden Tower nickname.
The tower is a Romanesque four-sided tower with a square base of 11 x 11 meters and walls about 2.4 meters thick. The northern wall is 3 meters thick. The current height from the outside (eastern side) after the Gothic arch is 26 meters, originally it was about 2 meters lower. The outer shell is made of original ashlar masonry from tuff, with large sandstone blocks at the corners in the lower part.
Initially, the tower served as a defensive structure. A lookout dwelled in the highest floor, monitoring approaching enemies or potential fires in the surrounding area. On April 10, 1538, the tower caught fire after being struck by lightning, and the room on the first floor was likely converted into a prison. During the great fire of the castle, the Little Quarter, and Hradčany on June 2, 1541, the tower was spared, but its stonework was so blackened by smoke that it became known as the Black Tower.
The tower was used as a prison, housing notable prisoners such as Sixt of Ottersdorf, a staroměstský kancléř, and doctor Šimo Firmas, accused of writing satirical songs and poems against the king and the Catholic Church. Today, it is not open to the public and houses an archaeological collection of finds from Prague Castle.
The Black Tower is a significant part of Prague Castle, a large castle complex in the heart of Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic. In the 12th century, Prague Castle was the residence of the Přemyslid dukes, and later it became the seat of the kings of Bohemia. During the 13th to 15th centuries, the castle underwent significant modifications, including the construction of the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral. In the 16th century, the castle was a key location during the Protestant Reformation and the Thirty Years' War.
The Black Tower is worth visiting for its historical significance and architectural importance. It is a unique example of a Romanesque tower that has retained its original character despite undergoing various modifications over the centuries. Visitors can learn about its history and significance by exploring the surrounding Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 1135
- Built as a gatehouse
- 13th century
- Walled up
- 1538
- Struck by lightning
- 1541
- Spared during the great fire
Architectural development
The tower is a Romanesque four-sided tower with a square base of 11 x 11 meters and walls about 2.4 meters thick. The northern wall is 3 meters thick. The current height from the outside (eastern side) after the Gothic arch is 26 meters, originally it was about 2 meters lower. The outer shell of the tower is made of the original ashlar masonry from tuff, the corners in the lower part are made of large sandstone blocks.
Historical events
Built as a gatehouse shortly after 1135
Walled up in the 13th century
Struck by lightning on April 10, 1538
Spared during the great fire of the castle, the Little Quarter, and Hradčany on June 2, 1541
Points of interest
– The Black Tower has been used as a prison, housing notable prisoners such as Sixt of Ottersdorf, a staroměstský kancléř, and doctor Šimo Firmas, accused of writing satirical songs and poems against the king and the Catholic Church.
– The tower was spared during the great fire of the castle, the Little Quarter, and Hradčany on June 2, 1541, but its stonework was so blackened by smoke that it became known as the Black Tower.
– The tower is a unique example of a Romanesque tower that has retained its original character despite undergoing various modifications over the centuries.
– The Black Tower has a Gothic arch on the eastern side, which is 3 meters thick, and the current height from the outside is 26 meters.
– The outer shell of the tower is made of original ashlar masonry from tuff, with large sandstone blocks at the corners in the lower part.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome! You are standing before one of the oldest and most magnificent landmarks in Prague – the Black Tower. Look up and observe its mighty, four-sided façade. The tower is located at the eastern entrance to Prague Castle, accessible via the Old Castle Stairway. Its history dates back to the 12th century when it was built as a gatehouse of the castle. Let's move forward in time and see how its appearance has changed.
Let's move into the 13th century, when the tower was filled in. By that time, part of the castle had already been completely walled up, and the tower was used as part of the fortification. In 1538, the tower was struck by lightning but still remained standing. In 1541, it even survived a major fire at the castle.
Notice how the tower still retains its original Romanesque character. It is the only completely preserved tower from the original Romanesque fortification. Take a look at its façade and feel the atmosphere emanating from it. You can almost imagine being in the 12th century, when the tower was built.
The Black Tower has a rich history and was used as a prison. It held several notable figures, such as Sixtus of Ottersdorf, the Old Town chancellor, and Doctor Šimon Firmius, who was accused of writing satirical songs and poems against the king and the Catholic Church.
Notice that the tower survived the major fire at the castle. You might wonder why this could be so? It is one of many mysteries that the Black Tower holds.
Allow yourself to stop by this historical monument and take a closer look. Examine its façade, feel the atmosphere, and try to immerse yourself in the era when it was built. The Black Tower is a true gem of Prague and worth returning to.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
We have not verified whether this monument is accessible. Please ask the owner or operator, or the local municipal office.
Where is the monument?
Location: Hradčany, Hlavní město Praha. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a national cultural monument. It is protected as part of a larger listed ensemble.
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Events nearby
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Nearby
The tower is located within Prague Castle, a large castle complex in the heart of Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
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Prague Castle Tour
This tour takes you through the historic Prague Castle complex, exploring its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance. The main highlight of the tour is the Černá Věž (Black Tower), a medieval tower that offers breathtaking views of the city.
1. St. Vitus Cathedral (approx. 10-minute walk from Černá Věž) This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of the most impressive buildings in the Prague Castle complex. Its intricate stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and imposing architecture make it a must-visit attraction. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.
2. Golden Lane (approx. 5-minute walk from St. Vitus Cathedral) This charming street is a historic residential area within the castle complex, featuring colorful houses, quaint shops, and a charming atmosphere. The street is lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
3. Old Royal Palace (approx. 5-minute walk from Golden Lane) This impressive palace has served as the seat of power for Czech kings and emperors throughout history. The palace features an impressive courtyard, grand halls, and a beautiful chapel. Visitors can explore the palace's grandeur and learn about its rich history.
4. The Černá Věž (Black Tower) (located within the castle complex) The Černá Věž is a medieval tower that offers breathtaking views of the city from its top. The tower dates back to the 13th century and has been a part of the castle complex for centuries. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of Prague and learn about its history and significance.
This tour offers a unique glimpse into Prague's rich history, architecture, and culture, making it a must-visit experience for anyone interested in exploring the city's hidden gems.
Seasonal recommendations
Jaro
In the spring season, Černá Věž is surrounded by greenery and flowers, creating a pleasant atmosphere. The lighting is typical for this time of year when the sun shines more brightly and details are more visible. The best time to visit Černá Věž is during spring when the weather is mild and not too hot. We recommend visiting Černá Věž in the morning hours or late afternoon to avoid crowds of tourists. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful spring scenes.
Léto
The lighting in summer is even brighter, creating a romantic atmosphere. We recommend visiting Černá Věž at night to enjoy the nighttime tours and avoid crowds of tourists who come during the day. Don't forget to bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes so you can move comfortably around the tower.
Podzim
In the autumn season, Černá Věž is surrounded by beautiful colorful leaves, creating a pleasant atmosphere. The lighting is typical for this time of year when the sun is less bright and creates delightful shading. The best time to visit Černá Věž is during autumn when the weather is mild and not too cold. We recommend visiting Černá Věž in the morning hours or late afternoon to avoid crowds of tourists. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful autumn scenes.
Zima
In the winter season, Černá Věž is surrounded by snow and creates a peaceful atmosphere. The lighting is typical for this time of year when the sun is less bright and creates delightful shading. We recommend visiting Černá Věž in the morning hours to avoid crowds of tourists and enjoy peaceful tours. Don't forget to bring warm clothing and shoes so you can move comfortably around the tower.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
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Sources and literature
Photos: Marie Čcheidzeová / CC BY-SA 4.0 — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
Location on the map
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