St. George’s Basilica was founded by Prince Vrateslav I around AD 920 and is one of the oldest church buildings in Prague. It was enlarged in AD 973 when the St. George’s Benedictine convent was adjoined, and was rebuilt after a fire in AD 1142. This structure is a key feature at the Progue Castle Complex, which serves as the seat of the present-day president of the Czech Republic.

Despite its distinctive rusty red seventeenth-century Baroque façade, St. George’s Basilica is known as one of the most impressive examples of Romanesque architecture. Among the structure’s most significant attractions are the massive twin towers, altar paintings, and dome frescos. Several Czech princes, including Vrateslav I, are buried here, and the adjacent Gothic chapel of St. Lumila contains the tomb of the namesake saint, who was the widow of the ninth-century ruler Prince Borivoi. The Basilica regularly presents castle concerts, featuring the music of Pachelbel, Mozart, Vivaldi, and others, as well as gala performances by the Prague Royal Orchestra.

Visitors are welcome throughout the year, and can even book tickets. Rides are chartered at the Tram Stop: Prasky Hrad (trams 22, 23), and car and bus parks are available for convenience. The nearby Lvi Dvur Restaurant provides comfort and pleasurable dining. An entrance fee is required, but is quite worth the opportunity to check out this slice of ancient Prague culture and history.