Diana Lookout Tower: Panoramic Views of Prague
If you’re looking for a postcard-perfect view of Prague, then the Diana Lookout Tower is the place to go. Located on Petřín Hill, the tower offers some of the most stunning views of the Czech capital.
Standing at an impressive 65 meters or 213 feet, the tower was built in 1891 to commemorate Emperor Franz Joseph’s visit to the country. It was originally designed to look like an ancient Greek temple and its structure is made of cast iron and wood.
The tower is topped with a seven-pointed star, which is a reference to the seven hills of Prague. This makes it a popular destination for tourists looking for the best views of the city.
History of Diana Lookout Tower
The tower was designed by architect Antonín Wiehl and named after the goddess of hunting and the moon, Diana. It was built as part of the Jubilee Exhibition to mark the 50th anniversary of Franz Joseph’s coronation.
The tower’s construction began in 1889 and was completed in 1891. It was made of cast iron and wood, which was a popular building material at the time.
In the early years, the tower was used as a meteorological observation post. Later, it was used as an astronomical observatory, where scientists studied the night sky.
Today, the tower is a popular tourist attraction and offers some of the best views of Prague.
Ascending the Tower
Visitors can access the tower via a winding staircase of 299 steps. The climb is not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
Once you reach the top of the tower, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. You can see the famous Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the city’s many churches and cathedrals.
In addition to the views, the tower also has a small café where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the sights.
Exploring the Surrounds
The Diana Lookout Tower is part of the Petřín Hill complex, which also includes a mirror maze, a rose garden, and the Petřín funicular.
The funicular is a cable car that takes you from the base of Petřín Hill to the top, where the Diana Lookout Tower is located. It takes just a few minutes and offers stunning views of the city on the way up.
Visiting the Diana Lookout Tower
The Diana Lookout Tower is open all year round, but the best time to visit is between April and October. During this time, the tower is open from 9am to 10pm and admission is free.
However, if you’d like to take the funicular, you’ll need to buy a ticket. Tickets are available from the funicular station at the base of Petřín Hill, and the ride takes just a few minutes.
Conclusion
The Diana Lookout Tower is one of the most popular attractions in Prague. It offers some of the best views of the city and is a great place to visit for those looking for a postcard-perfect view.
The tower is open all year round and admission is free. However, if you’d like to take the funicular to the top, you’ll need to buy a ticket from the station at the base of the hill.
So if you’re looking for the ideal vantage point to admire the beauty of Prague, the Diana Lookout Tower on Petřín Hill is a must-visit destination. Standing tall at 65 meters, this architectural gem, constructed in 1891, not only commemorates Emperor Franz Joseph’s visit but also provides breathtaking panoramic views of Prague. The tower, named after the goddess Diana, boasts a design reminiscent of an ancient Greek temple and features a seven-pointed star atop, symbolizing Prague’s seven hills. Accessible via a winding staircase of 299 steps, the climb is rewarded with unparalleled views, including iconic landmarks like Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. The tower is part of the Petřín Hill complex, offering additional attractions such as a mirror maze, a rose garden, and the scenic Petřín funicular. Open year-round, with the best visiting times between April and October, the Diana Lookout Tower promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking a picturesque perspective of the Czech capital.