006-020 PRAGUE - HRADCANY 

1. Hradcany situated on the hilltop above the river Vltava shows the Prague Castle in its full splendour, which together with the Dome of St. Vitus and the architectonically well composed surroundings, forms the world renowned Hradcin panorama. 

2. One of the last stages in the construction development of Hradcin is the entrance to the grounds of the Prague Castle - the first Castle Court. This court reflects to the greatest extent the contribution of the Terezian period and French classicism as introduced by the architect N. Pacassi. 

3. Above the entrance gate to the Court of Honour are Platzer's sculpture decorations. 

4. The dominant features of the whole complex of Hradcin are the slim tall spires of the St. Vitus Cathedral, the eastern part of which built in the classical Gothic style, was constructed in the 14th and 15th century. The main architects of the Dome of St. Vitus were Matyas of Arras and Peter Parler. 

5. In the majestic silence of the St. Vitus Cathedral, the remains of Bohemian Kings and the precious crown jewel, from the era of Charles IV, are deposited. 

6. The St. Wenceslas Chapel was built by Peter Parler, who is also said to be author of the statue of St. Wenceslas above the altar. 

7. The Golden Lane (from the latter part of the 16th century) originally housed the Castle Gunners and later, artisans including goldsmiths which gave the streets its name. The legend however, says that during the reign of Rudolph II alchemists producing gold resided here.