Deep within the Prague Castle complex lies a hidden gem that serves as a reminder of a tragic moment in history. The 1618 defenestration, where individuals were thrown out of a window to their supposed death, marked the beginning of the Thirty Years’ War in Europe. This war, often simplified as a conflict between Protestants and Catholics, was sparked by the suppression of Protestantism by the Habsburg Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II. The defenestration in Prague was not a one-time occurrence, as it had happened before in 1419 and possibly again in 1948. The Thirty Years’ War resulted in millions of deaths, making it a significant catastrophe in central European history. Despite its historical importance, the reference to this war may not garner much reaction from most Americans. Nonetheless, visiting the famous window in Prague Castle can provide a moment of reflection on the devastating consequences that unfolded from a fit of jealousy.
https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/defenestration-of-prague-window