The National Gallery

Looking for new places to explore? Check out the National Gallery in Prague. The gallery is home to the largest collection of art in the Czech Republic. It has multiple permanent and temporary exhibitions to browse around. The National Gallery is the second oldest in Europe and includes multiple exhibition spaces housed in multiple buildings across Prague, including the Convent of St. Agnes of Bohemia, the Kinský Palace, the Salmovský Palace, Schwarzenberg Palace, Stenberg Palace, Wallenstein Riding School, as well as the most popular location, the Veletržní palác. Get a glimpse into the National Gallery locations and the buildings’ history by reading below!

 

Veletržní palác:

This building was once used for trade fairs until 1951, until it was destroyed in 1974 from a fire. Once restored in 1995, it has been the center location containing Modern and Contemporary Art. Allot yourself enough time to explore the entire place, as it holds 4 floors full of exquisite art from well-known artists such as Warhol and Picasso, as well as various Czech artists. Here, there are both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

 

Wallenstein Riding School:

Wallenstein Riding School was built between the years 1623 and 1630 and is one of the locations that focuses mainly on temporary, short-term exhibitions held by the National Gallery. There is also a beautiful garden at this location called the Baroque Wallenstein Garden, which is a lovely walk-through containing sculptures and fountains.

 

Stenberg Palace:

Located right near Prague Castle is the Stenberg Palace. Sternberg Palace holds various types of European Art all throughout the museum, including (but not limited to) Italian, Spanish, Flemish, Dutch Artwork, and more. It also contains a café and the Sternberg garden with lovely Czech sculptures. This exhibit will walk you through multiple cultures and makes for an educational afternoon.

 

Grad Opening of Veletržní palác in 2018, photo by: Tereza Křenová.

Schwarzenberg Palace:

At this specific location, you’ll find the permanent exhibition of Baroque in Bohemia. This location is full of history and knowledge that utilizes 3 separate floors covering Baroque in Bohemia. This museum also provides the option to listen to an audio tour that will help guide you through the exhibit.

 

Salmovský Palace:

Also near Prague Castle, this exquisite Palace was built between 1800 and 1811 by archibishop William Florentan and was made part of the National Gallery in 2004, making it one of the National Gallery’s newer locations. Here, there are also future plans for an exhibit of medieval art.

 

Kinský Palace:

Located right in the heart of Old Town Square is the Kinský Palace. It features a permanent exhibit of the Art of Asia and the medieval Mediterranean. This art exhibition shows art development through 7,000 years! On the second floor of the palace is a studio with art supplies, which is perfect for a visit for any aspiring artist. Another unique aspect about this location is that there are oftentimes art workshops available to the public.

 

Convent of St. Agnes of Bohemia:

The Convent of St. Agnes of Bohemia stands as the oldest Gothic building in Prague. This building was renovated in 1963 by the National Gallery and displays medieval art from Central Europe and Bohemia and contains 14^th and 15^th century artwork.

 

Be sure to check out these historical buildings and wander through the various exhibitions full of wonderful artwork during your time in Prague!