The castle's Stag Moat (Jelení Příkop) is one of those places that is completely obvious but rarely visited. Honestly, every time we walk through this valley of greenery, we see a maximum of 10 people.
How is that possible when it's just below the castle's entrance? I guess the answer doesn't matter much - their loss is our gain!
Please note!
Due to security restrictions, the moat may have limited access. So some details on this page may not be applicable. I apologize for any inconvenience but I hope you still try to make a visit to this wonderful area at the castle.
You can watch our video of the moat (see below) to get a sense of the place with its flora and sculptures. To describe it as remarkable is such a complete understatement.
This place offers a wonderful sense that you are far from the city center with its trees, birds, occasional snail, little brook and even a natural fountain with clean cold water.
At one time, a few bears roamed around the moat and the bear keeper's house is still here, below the bridge to the castle.
The moat is actually a natural defense to the castle and when you walk through you get a sense of just how impressive the castle actually is. You'll see the Gothic spires of St. Vitus' Cathedral, the Daliborka Tower and other parts of the castle from a unique perspective.
The moat itself has lots to see as well. You can wander through and see a variety of sculptures and connect to other parts of the castle's grounds including the royal gardens and Queen Anne's summer palace.
One of the most surprising sights in the moat is the bricked tunnel that courses under the castle's gate - picture above.
The one drawback about visiting the moat is its summer only hours. The Stag Moat is only open April 1 - October 31.
The Stag Moat borders the north side of Prague Castle. It actually stretches beyond the castle going all the way up into other parts of this area (Hradčany).
The bridge to the castle's side gate is just above about the halfway point of the moat. This is the castle entrance closest to the tram stop.
Here are a few ways to get to the moat...
Home > Hidden Prague sights > Stag Moat