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Archbishop's Palace: A Rococo Jewel in Prague's Castle District

A historic palace in Prague's Castle District, serving as the seat of the city's Archbishops since the 16th century, featuring a Rococo facade.

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The Archbishop's Palace, located on Hradčanské Square next to Prague Castle, has been the seat of Prague's Archbishops since 1562. Originally built in the 16th century, it showcases a stunning Rococo facade and has undergone several renovations, incorporating Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicist elements. Though the interiors are rarely open to the public, the palace's exterior adds to the charm of Prague's Castle District.

A brief summary to Archbishop Palace

Local tips

  • Admire the palace's Rococo facade from Hradčanské Square, taking in its architectural details and grand arched windows.
  • Check for occasional open days, such as Maundy Thursday, for a rare chance to view the palace's interiors and the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist.
  • Explore the surrounding Hradčany district, including Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and other historical landmarks.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Prague Castle, exit through the main gates and walk across Hradčanské Square. The Archbishop's Palace is located on the opposite side of the square, next to the Schwarzenberg Palace. The walk is short and offers views of the surrounding historical buildings.

  • Public Transport

    Take Tram 22 to the Pražský hrad stop. From the tram stop, walk across Hradčanské Square to reach the Archbishop's Palace. A single 30-minute ticket costs 30 CZK, and a 90-minute ticket costs 40 CZK. Tram 22 is a popular tourist route, so be mindful of your belongings.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Hradčanské Square. The Archbishop's Palace is located on the square, next to Prague Castle. A short taxi ride from Prague's city center to Hradčanské Square typically costs between 150 CZK and 200 CZK. Be sure to use a reputable taxi service or app to avoid overcharging.

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Discover more about Archbishop Palace

The Archbishop's Palace, a prominent landmark on Hradčanské Square, has been the residence of the Prague Archbishops since 1562. Its history dates back to 1538 when Florian Grispek built the first structure. Ferdinand I later purchased it in 1562 and passed it to Archbishop Antonín Brus of Mohelnice. Over the centuries, the palace has undergone significant transformations. Initially built in the Renaissance style, it was later renovated in the Baroque style in the 17th century. The palace received its present-day Rococo facade in the 1760s, thanks to a renovation led by Jan Josef Wirch under Archbishop Petr Prichovsky. The palace is located on the site of eight former burgher homes. The palace's exterior is a creamy vanilla hue, adorned with arched windows. Inside, the palace features lavish ceremonial rooms with carved wooden furnishings, ornate stucco detailing, and collections of porcelain and glassware. The Chapel of Saint John the Baptist, dating back to the 16th century, is among its most treasured spaces. A creepy legend involving murder and torture surrounds the chapel in the palace; the artist who painted the suffering Christ for the chapel altar sacrificed a beggar in order to capture a realistic look of pain. While the palace's interiors are rarely open to the public, occasional open days, such as on Maundy Thursday, offer a glimpse into the Archbishop's private chapel and its artwork. Even from the outside, the Archbishop's Palace contributes to the spiritual heart of Prague.

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