Vyšehrad Casemates: exploring Prague's hidden underground
Vyšehrad, Prague's legendary hilltop fortress, offers visitors far more than stunning views and ancient monuments. Beneath its walls lies a lesser-known historical marvel—the Vyšehrad Casemates, an underground complex from the 17th century, once built to safeguard soldiers from enemy fire and now open for exploration.
Hidden beneath the fortress walls
The Vyšehrad Casemates date back to the turbulent era following the devastating Thirty Years' War. In response to increased threats from powerful artillery, significant fortifications were constructed around Prague. Daniel Rejman, visitor service manager at Vyšehrad, explains:
"The second half of the 17th century was some sort of hangover when Czechia was quite exhausted after the Thirty Years' War. There were very large investments into the defense of several cities in the monarchy, including Prague."
Unlike earlier improvised fortifications made from soil and wooden palisades, the casemates provided a reliable shelter built from robust stone and earth.
Impressive construction, unintended surprises
Visitors entering the casemates today find themselves in extensive corridors, stretching beneath the Vyšehrad ramparts. Rejman points out the effort involved:
"It took decades, and it was definitely very expensive. At first, they created a construction made of stone, and then they brought a huge layer of soil to cover it. It's sort of an artificial underground."
One particular space, known as the Gorlice Hall, emerged from a remarkable misunderstanding during construction. The original defensive wall was mistakenly built in the wrong position, causing the builders to start again further outside.
"They nearly finished everything, and then the architect learned about the position and was quite disappointed. The first wall became useless, creating a very peculiar space," Rejman explains.
This space was eventually covered by a gigantic brick arch, creating the impressive hall visitors see today.
From military storage to cinematic backdrop
Originally serving as military storage, Gorlice Hall gained its unique name following an Austrian-Hungarian victory in World War I at Gorlice in present-day Poland. Returning soldiers named a nearby military farm after the battle, and the name later extended to the underground space itself.
In recent decades, the casemates have become a favorite for filmmakers. Rejman notes with pride:
"A scene from Mission Impossible with Tom Cruise was filmed in the Casemates Tunnel, and also the Czech comedy Jedna ruka netleská (One Hand Does Not Clap) was filmed here."
Statues from the Charles Bridge
Today, the Gorlice Hall is home to original statues from Prague's iconic Charles Bridge, carefully preserved in this unique subterranean gallery.
Though no longer serving military purposes, the casemates continue to fascinate visitors year-round. Rejman encourages exploration:
"We’re open from Monday to Sunday, and visitors can easily join one of our guided tours every day."
Exploring Prague's subterranean secrets
The Vyšehrad Casemates offer visitors a rare glimpse into Prague’s rich military history and hidden architectural wonders, making them an essential stop for those seeking experiences off the beaten track.
Vyšehrad Casemates Fact Box
- Built: Second half of the 17th century, following the Thirty Years' War.
- Purpose: Military fortifications, protecting soldiers from artillery attacks.
- Special feature: Gorlice Hall, created from an architectural mistake, now houses original Charles Bridge statues.
- Filming Location: Featured in Mission Impossible and Czech films.
- Visit: Open nearly daily with guided tours available.
- Website: https://www.praha-vysehrad.cz/en/event/casemates-and-gorlice-hall
