Most of the attractions atop Petřín hill were built in the late 19th to early 20th century, lending the place an old-fashioned, fun-fair atmosphere. The huge stone fortifications that run from Újezd to Strahov, cutting across Petřín's peak, are different. This so-called Hunger Wall was built in 1362 under Charles IV, constructed by the city's poor in return for food under an early job-creation scheme.
Once upon a time the hill was draped with vineyards, and you can still see the quarry that provided stone for most of Prague's Romanesque and Gothic buildings. North of the funicular terminus on the summit is Petřín Tower, a 62m-high copy of the Eiffel Tower, built for the 1891 Prague Exposition. You can climb its 299 steps for a small fee. On a clear day you'll be able to take in sublime views of the central Bohemian woodlands.
