Towers to visit Czech Republic

This tower, which can be seen from the city centre, is very similar to the Paris Eiffel Tower. It is indeed a copy built for the Universal Exhibition in 1891, which is at the same height as the Parisian tower... by counting the height of the hill! It is accessible to visitors who want to climb its 299 spiral staircases that turn in the sole foot of the tower. From the height of its 60 m, you have the whole city at your feet.

The crowning achievement of Prague's red hours: the Žižkov television and radio tower. At 216 meters high, its futuristic spire looks like something out of a Bilal comic strip. Its construction, between 1985 and 1992, provoked much controversy. Take the elevator for a 93-metre high, 360° panoramic view. You can even enjoy a drink or a bite to eat in the beautiful café-restaurant Oblaca, or at Miminoo, at the foot of the tower with its large terrace in the Mahler Gardens.

Next to the Municipal House and at the beginning of Celetná Street, this tall black Gothic tower marks one of the former entrances to the city walls, which had a total of thirteen gates. It is always the impression she gives, so great is the excitement at her feet throughout the day. Dominating Náměstí Republiky, it was on the road to Kutna Hora. If a first tower existed on this site in the 13th century, the construction of the powder magazine tower began in 1475, and it was not until the 17th century, before being massively bombed by the Prussians in 1757, that it was used for powder storage, hence its name. After a century of neglect, having been largely destroyed in the conflict, it finally underwent a renovation campaign in 1886, led by Josef Mocker, in a neo-Gothic style. A high roof and statues representing Czech kings and saints were added, creating harmony with the city's other bell towers, particularly those of Notre-Dame-devant-le-Týn, as the tower had definitively lost its military role. Today, you can climb to the top and contemplate the panoramic view of the city while lingering in front of a small historical exhibition highlighting the different towers of Prague through history, not only historical towers, like this one, but also more recent ones like Petrin's or Žižkov's huge television tower.

Its domed roof was built in the 14th century and is one of the last remnants of the city walls of that time. The Rabenstein Tower marked the location of one of the gates leading to the city center and was one of the elements of the western fortifications of the city. You can also climb the tower to visit the upper floors, which have been transformed into a small museum about the city. A prison cell has been reconstructed inside, as the tower was used to lock up petty criminals.

This massive square tower dominated by a gallery with a slate roof stands right next to the Saint-Nicolas cathedral. It was built between 1550 and 1577 for an essentially prestigious purpose. It was not intended for the defense of the city but rather as a landmark, thanks to its 72 m height, even if it could occasionally serve as a watchtower. Nowadays one climbs its 225 steps to enjoy a sumptuous panorama of the city and its surroundings.

The Rotunda Rotunda svatého (Kříže, 12th century) is one of the jewels of Romanesque architecture in Bohemia. There are only three of these left in Prague and this is the oldest. It is representative of the time of the Přemyslides dynasty. The grid surrounding it is by Joseph Mánes (19th century). Its location, caught between colourful and more recent buildings, is a real curiosity. Offices are regularly held there.

This tall black tower dominates the district dates from the 15th century. It was successively watchtower, then bell tower of the church of Saint-Henri. Today it houses a luxury restaurant and an exhibition on the different towers of Prague. Architectural enthusiasts will be able to browse through the cross-sectional plans and perspective views, while fans of old postcards will take a look at Prague's old face before and during the communist period.

This large tower dominates the central square. It was built between 1547 and 1557 to protect the city from enemies and fires. Ironically, it is called the Black Tower because of the numerous fires that have darkened its venerable stone walls. It is possible to climb to the top and admire the view. To do so, you will have to take your breath and climb the 226 steps, but the panorama is worth the detour, especially in good weather, embracing all the surrounding hills and villages.

The cable car takes you to the top of Mount Ještěd, which dominates the city at 1,012 meters. Architect Karel Hubáček created a television tower that evokes hyperbole, the top of a romantic castle tower, and an inverted funnel all at once. Its silhouette, visible for miles around, has become the symbol of the city of Liberec. Very nice view from the top. Numerous hiking and biking trails lead to the nearby villages.

Next to the church, from which it was quite distinct, the city tower was originally part of the city's fortifications. Partly destroyed by Hungarian troops in the 14th century, its solid foundations have allowed it to survive the centuries until today. Its vocation being no longer defensive, it has been reconverted in tourism and offers a panoramic view, at 35 m height, on the whole city and the region. Visit possible on appointment out of season.

The funicular takes you to the Diana Tower, the top of which, at 35 m high, can be reached by an elevator or by the 150-step staircase. Since 1914, this famous tower has offered a breathtaking view of Karlovy Vary and, in good weather, of the Smrčiny Mountains, the Slavkov Forest and the Teplá River, which are clearly visible. Goethe and Freud, among others, came to enjoy this unique view. A local saying goes, "Whoever has not visited Diana, has not visited Karlovy Vary."