The representative spaces in the New Palace are usually not open to visitors. Saturday, the 11th of May, is one of the few days when Prague Castle opens these halls, salons and lounges which are normally reserved for receiving official visits by the President of the Republic. Therefore, you have now a unique chance to look around these rooms, some of which served as representative and residential spaces to monarchs as early as the 16th century!
The 100th anniversary of the Office of the President of the Republic
Celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the Office of the President of the Republic will complement the programme in the New Palace’s representative rooms. This Office was established by law in 1919, and deals not only with matters concerning the execution of presidential powers, but also ensures the smooth running and administration of the properties which form the seat of the President, and also oversees his security.
What specialties will you see on the open day? There will be treasures such as the highest order of the Czech Republic - the collar chain of the White Lion Order, which is made up of twenty links joined together by two shorter chains extending between every second link. The link holding the badge is a white enamelled monogram with the initials ‘ČR’ for ‘Česká republika’ (Czech Republic), and the other links take the form of silver lions with the inscription ‘Pravda vítězí’ (Truth Shall Prevail). Among other exhibits, there will also be a state seal, the original 1920 Constitution, and presidential gifts. You will also be able to admire the festive arrangement of the dining table, prepared for the state lunch.
Free entrance to major historical buildings
Prague Castle has even more to offer its visitors on Saturday! Access to all major historical buildings will also be completely free. That includes the Old Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, Great South Tower of the Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, Rosenberg Palace, Golden Lane, The Treasury of St. Vitus Cathedral, The Picture Gallery and The Story of Prague Castle.
Lovers of music are advised to spend a moment in the Third Courtyard where there will be brass band performances on stage for the whole day. In the Royal Garden, medieval falconers will show their art, visitors will find refreshment stalls, and children will enjoy the children’s corner.
Falconer's House
The opening of the new tourist season at Prague Castle will also include the opening of the newly renovated Falconer’s House. The inconspicuous cottage with a wooden porch, which has undergone extensive renovation, can be found between the Riding School’s original renaissance and baroque buildings. The oldest documented inhabitant of the house was a falconer, later a moat guard lived there, and then a carpenter. At the end of the 17th century, three huntsmen moved in, later a butcher, and after him the corporal of the local garrison lived there. The last inhabitants of the house were Castle employees in the 20th century. A new exhibition dedicated to falconry has now found its place in the house.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE EVENT
11/05/19
Prague Castle 9am-6pm
Royal Garden 10am –6pm
Free admission
Entrance to the representative spaces will be from Hradčany Square.
Last visitors will be admitted to the representative spaces at 5:30pm.