Royal Garden

Overview

The Royal Garden is an elegant Renaissance garden north of Prague Castle, planted in 1534 by Ferdinand I. Its manicured lawns, topiaries, and the Ball Game Hall provide a serene contrast to the castle's crowds.

Highlights

• Ball Game Hall: A Renaissance loggia with sgraffito decoration, used for indoor ball games.
• Singing Fountain: A bronze fountain whose water creates musical tones when heard from below.
• Queen Anne's Summer Palace: A pure Italian Renaissance belvedere—the finest north of the Alps.

History

Created by Ferdinand I in 1534, the garden introduced exotic plants (including the first tulips in Europe) from Habsburg connections. Heavily replanted after WWII.

Visitor Tips

• Seasonal: Open April–October only.
• Free entry: Always free when open.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.