Prague Guide

One thing that is also high on many tourists’ to do list is to see a palace.  The good news is that there are plenty in Prague to choose from and no tourist will go home disappointed. 

The Archbishop’s Palace

Located on the right side of Prague Castle, this castle contains beautiful interiors throughout the chapel and gallery.  Overall, it is baroque in style with a large hall located on the second floor housing nine Gobelin Tapestries with a “New India” theme.  The place also houses the archbishop’s carriage which in only one of two in Europe to have survive through the years.  The palace first housed the archbishop in the mid 16th century and is still in use today and lived in by the Archbishop of Prague.  Even Pope John Paul II stayed there in 1990 in his visit to the country. 

Cernin Palace

At 150 meters long, Cernin Palace is not only Prague’s largest palace, it is also the longest Baroque style building in the city.  Its construction dates all the way back to 1669 and is located in Loretto Square in the Prague Castle District.

Palace of the Lords of Kunstat and Podebrady

Open to the public during all seasons except for winter, this place is one of the city’s oldest.  It houses vaulted cellars and the original ground floor.  The building itself, dates back to the 13th century and during the 15th century, it was home to the King of Bohemia, George of Podebrady. 

Lobkowicz Palace

This particular palace has witnessed history time and time again all the way to 1989 when the first German refuges stayed after walking through the recently fallen Berlin Wall.  Originally constructed in 1703, it has served many purposes including being the West German Embassy.  The Lobkowicz family inherited the building in 1627, but today is used for exhibitions and concerts. 

Prague Castle

One of the most popular places to visit in Prague is Prague Castle.  It is one of the biggest castles in the world and has at times housed the Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors and presidents of Czechoslovakia.  This castle can be seen from no matter where you are in the city and today houses the crown jewels.  This history of the castle dates all the way back to 870 and the various building represent just about every type of architectural style.  The castle includes a cathedral, monastery, numerous palaces, gardens and defense towers.  Today, the castle is open to the public and houses numerous museums. 

Schonbornksy Palac

Today, this building houses the American Embassy, but it dates back to the mid 17th century.  After falling on hard times, it was completely repaired in 1917 and eventually turned into apartments before becoming the embassy. 

Schwarzenberg Palac

With a very impressive façade this building is now home to the Prague Military History Museum. 

Sternberg Palace

This palace is home to the National Gallery’s collection of European masters. 

Wallenstein Palace

Originally built for Albrecht of Wallenstien, today it houses the senate portion of the parliament of the Czech Republic.

The city of Prague is home to any number of wonderful churches.  Many offer services visitors can choose to attend or other functions such as concerts or tours.  Here are a few that shouldn’t be missed.