Second courtyard of Prague Castle, street in Hradčany, Czech Republic
The second courtyard of Prague Castle is a paved inner court surrounded by historic stone walls and buildings spanning centuries. The space features Kohl's Fountain at its center and provides access to key structures including the Chapel of the Holy Cross and the castle's picture gallery.
The courtyard was created in the second half of the 16th century after filling in two inner castle ditches. The western side was later closed off under Maria Theresa with a castle tract, while the eastern side preserved its original Romanesque walls that once served as part of the castle's early defenses.
The courtyard takes its name from its position within the castle complex and continues to serve as a central gathering space. You can observe how the space comes alive during ceremonies or remains quiet as visitors pass through, reflecting its dual role in both formal and everyday castle life.
The courtyard is easy to navigate with flat paving and broad paths comfortable for most visitors to walk. There are few to no stairs in most areas, though some sections have low curbs that require careful footing.
A Gothic bronze statue of Saint George from 1373 stands nearby and ranks among the oldest artworks on the castle grounds. This early sculpture reveals the site's long artistic history and draws less attention than more famous monuments.
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