The Convent of St George, with its outstanding Romanesque tower contains a fascinating exhibition of the National Gallery’s Bohemian art collection (see page 34).
Children will love the colourful little cottages and cobblestones of Zlata Uliaka (Golden Lane) which back onto the Castle walls. The houses originally belonged to archers and goldsmiths serving the court in the second half of the 16th century. Franz Kafka, Czechoslovakia’s most famous prose writer, once lived at no. 22.
There are souvenir shops galore and, at the end of the street, a charming café called Vl. Zlate Uliaka (not too restful however; the whole area gets rather crowded).
Before leaving the Castle complex via Vikafska (on the north side of St Vitus Cathedral), take a look at the Powder Tower. Cannon were once stored here and the place later served as a laboratory, housing the equipment for the Imperial alchemists.
Collection of Old Bohemian Art
Jiisky klaster
Religious treasures from Bohemia’s Medieval past -mainly panel paintings and altarpieces – are on show in the former Convent of St George, Prague Castle. They include the 14th-century cycle painted by Master Theodoric for the Holy Cross Chapel in Kargtejn Castle. The first floor is devoted to the work of baroque artists ranging from Mannerism through to the end of the 18th century and includes examples by Karel Skreta and Johannes Kupetzky. Open: April to November Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 to 18.00 hrs. Closed: Monday.