Prague Castle began at the end of the 19thc. Successive Kings added to its might, and it became and still is the depository of the bohemian Crown Jewels. The kings of Bohemia became electors of the Holy Roman Empire. One of these was the 14thc ruler Charles IV, the first emperor to make Prague his major residence. Much of the present day castle and city owe their appearance to him. In 1526, the Habsburgs inherited the place, and in 1600 it became the residence of Rudolph II, Holy Roman Emperor, King of Hungary and of course King of Bohemia. Unlike his predecessors, however, Rudolph was interested in alchemy rather than warfare. Under his rule, Prague Castle became a citadel of the bizarre. Magicians, caballists and astrologers were all welcome.
But the court of Rudolph was not the only odd scene the castle has witnessed. Imperial emissaries have been thrown out of windows, sieges have been withstood, and crowds have gone delirious with joy at coronations. All of these events seem to have left their mark. Today as a result of local will warn you about a number of ghosts. If you enter the royal crypt, you are likely to encounter Charles IV's four successive wives. They will be too busy fighting among themselves and looking for their husband to bother with you however.
On one side of the castle walls is the Jeleni trench. There the visitor may encounter the ghost of an old man, who, during the reign of Rudoplh II, made "remedial" oils and ointments, potions and simples. He died unnoticed in the trench, and one of the Imperial Menagerie attendants decided to use the unattended corpse as extra food for his carnivores. Apparently the old man did not appreciate his treatment. He returned to haunt the keeper, driving him to madness and finally, to hang himself. Meeting him today is a sign of impending doom.
Prague continues to exert a magical hold on its visitors. Perhaps this comes from lingering alchemical influences.
But whatever the reason , you may well find the castle too haunting to leave- others certainly have.
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