Vyšehrad Cemetery

Vyšehrad Cemetery Prague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Vyšehrad Cemetery, nestled within the ancient Vyšehrad Castle complex in Prague, stands as one of the Czech Republic’s most revered cultural landmarks and the nation’s pantheon. Established in 1869 during the Czech National Revival, it transcends its role as a burial ground—serving as a monument to Czech national identity, creativity, and history. With more than 600 notable figures interred—including world-renowned composers Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana, writers such as Karel Čapek and Jan Neruda, and artists like Alfons Mucha—the cemetery offers visitors an unparalleled journey through Czech heritage (Vyšehrad Castle Tickets, Living Prague).

The centerpiece of the cemetery is the monumental Slavín tomb, a Neo-Renaissance mausoleum completed in 1893 to honor the nation’s greatest cultural personalities (Prague Vitruvius). Set among mature trees and terraced grounds overlooking the Vltava River, Vyšehrad Cemetery is a tranquil space that invites contemplation, artistic appreciation, and an intimate connection to Czech history.

This comprehensive guide explores Vyšehrad Cemetery’s history, architectural highlights, notable burials, and all practical information for visiting—including hours, ticketing, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, art lover, or cultural traveler, Vyšehrad Cemetery is an essential Prague landmark that encapsulates the spirit of the Czech nation (Radio Prague International).

Grave of painter Zdenka Braunerová at Vyšehrad Cemetery in Prague

Deyl family grave at Vyšehrad Cemetery in Prague

The Origins and National Role of Vyšehrad Cemetery
Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Notable Figures Interred
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Tips
References and Resources

The Origins and National Role of Vyšehrad Cemetery

Historical Background

While burials at Vyšehrad date to the 13th century, the modern cemetery was officially established in 1869, adjacent to the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul (Vyšehrad Castle Tickets). The cemetery’s transformation into a national pantheon coincided with the Czech National Revival—a time of renewed cultural and linguistic identity. Visionaries of the era, such as František Ladislav Rieger, advocated for a place to honor the nation’s most significant contributors in the arts, sciences, and public life (Vyšehrad Tickets).

The Slavín Tomb: A National Mausoleum

The most prominent feature, the Slavín tomb, was constructed between 1889 and 1893. Designed by architect Antonín Wiehl, the Neo-Renaissance mausoleum houses over 50 of the Czech nation’s most celebrated individuals, with names inscribed on its marble plaques. Sculptural works by Josef Mauder and Josef Václav Myslbek embody themes of mourning, victory, and Czech unity (Prague Vitruvius).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Cemetery Layout and Landscape

Vyšehrad Cemetery combines formal terraced grounds with mature trees and native flora, taking advantage of its dramatic hillside position overlooking the Vltava River (significantcemeteries.org). Elegant arcades designed by Antonín Wiehl, richly adorned with neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau details, line the northern edge, framing rows of dignified graves and family vaults.

Funerary Art and Monuments

The cemetery is a veritable open-air gallery of Czech funerary art, with monuments created by leading architects and sculptors:

Neoclassical and Historicist Motifs: Early tombs feature columns, pediments, and urns, symbolizing dignity and remembrance.
Art Nouveau Flourishes: Later works display flowing lines, floral patterns, and allegorical figures, reflecting the Secese movement.
Portraiture and Reliefs: Many gravestones are adorned with busts, reliefs, and symbolic sculptures evoking the achievements of those interred (significantcemeteries.org).

Restoration and Conservation

Ongoing restoration—especially of the Slavín tomb since the late 1990s—ensures the preservation of both monuments and landscape. The cemetery is protected as part of the Vyšehrad National Cultural Monument (Vyšehrad Tickets).

Notable Figures Interred

Vyšehrad Cemetery is the final resting place for many of the Czech Republic’s most legendary figures across arts, science, and culture (Vyšehrad Castle Tickets; Living Prague):

Antonín Dvořák (1841–1904): Composer famed for the New World Symphony (Prague City Tourism).
Bedřich Smetana (1824–1884): Composer of Má vlast and “father of Czech music.”
Alfons Mucha (1860–1939): Pioneering Art Nouveau painter (Mucha Foundation).
Karel Čapek (1890–1938): Writer and playwright, originator of the word “robot” (Encyclopaedia Britannica).
Jan Neruda (1834–1891): Influential poet and journalist.
Božena Němcová (1820–1862): Author of the Czech classic Babička.
Ema Destinnová (Emmy Destinn, 1878–1930): International opera star.
František Křižík (1847–1941): Inventor known as the “Czech Edison.”
Mikoláš Aleš (1852–1913): Painter and illustrator.
Josef Václav Myslbek (1848–1922): Sculptor of the St. Wenceslas statue.

The Slavín tomb itself houses over 50 of these luminaries, and many more are honored throughout the cemetery’s tranquil grounds (Vyšehrad Cemetery official website).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

Summer (April–September): 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Winter (October–March): 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Hours may vary on holidays; check official sources for updates (Prague.eu).

Admission and Tickets

Entry: Free of charge for cemetery grounds. Donations for maintenance are welcome.
Guided Tours: Available in Czech and English; some tours may require a small fee and can be booked through the Vyšehrad Information Centre.
Slavín Tomb: Entry to the tomb’s interior may be restricted; check in advance for special tour availability.

Accessibility

The main pathways are paved and accessible for wheelchairs; some older, terraced areas may be uneven.
Benches and restrooms are available near the entrance (Prague City Tourism).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Getting There: Take Metro Line C to Vyšehrad station (10-minute walk), or use tram lines 3, 17, or 18.
Nearby: Explore Vyšehrad Fortress, Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, and the scenic Vltava River promenade.
Visitor Etiquette: Maintain silence, avoid touching monuments, and respect funeral proceedings. Photography is allowed for personal use; commercial photography requires permission (Vyšehrad Official).
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most beautiful scenery; early morning or late afternoon provide a quieter atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Vyšehrad Cemetery’s visiting hours?
A: Daily, 8:00 AM–7:00 PM in summer, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM in winter. Check for holiday variations.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Entry is free; some tours or special monuments may require a ticket.

Q: Is Vyšehrad Cemetery accessible?
A: Yes, the main areas are wheelchair accessible, though some historic sections are uneven.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, available in Czech and English through the information center.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, for personal use. Commercial shoots require permission.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Use Metro Line C (Vyšehrad station) or trams 3, 17, or 18.

Summary and Visitor Tips

Vyšehrad Cemetery is a living symbol of Czech national pride and cultural heritage. Its dramatic setting, remarkable funerary art, and the graves of legendary figures make it an essential destination for anyone interested in Prague’s history. The cemetery is open year-round with free admission, easy access via public transport, and a wealth of resources for visitors. Guided tours, maps, and informational panels enrich the experience—while the peaceful grounds invite reflection and appreciation for the Czech nation’s enduring legacy (Vyšehrad Castle Tickets; Prague Vitruvius; Living Prague; Audiala).

For an enhanced visit, download the Audiala app for curated audio guides, maps, and up-to-date information. Don’t miss the nearby Vyšehrad fortress, basilica, and riverside park for a full day of cultural exploration.