Golz-Kinsky Palace: A Rococo Gem in Prague's Old Town Square
Admire Rococo architecture & explore art collections inside this stunning pink & white palace in Prague's Old Town Square, a landmark with a rich history.
The Golz-Kinsky Palace, also known as Palác Kinských in Czech, is a prominent architectural landmark on Prague's Old Town Square. Its beautiful pink and white stucco facade, adorned with statues representing the classical elements, makes it a standout example of Rococo architecture. Originally built between 1755 and 1765 for Count Jan Arnošt Golz, the palace was designed by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. However, the Kinsky family purchased the palace in 1768. The palace has a rich history, having been a German-speaking grammar school attended by Franz Kafka, and the birthplace of Bertha von Suttner, the first woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Kafka's father even had a shop on the ground floor. The palace also played a role in the 1948 Czechoslovak coup d'état when Klement Gottwald, the leader of the Communist Party, addressed a crowd from its balcony, marking the beginning of the communist era in the country. In a symbolic turn of events, 42 years later, Václav Havel declared the end of the communist era from the same balcony. Since 1949, the palace has been under the administration of the National Gallery in Prague and is used as an art museum. Today, visitors can explore collections of Czech art, landscape paintings, and modern art within its ornate interiors. The palace stands as a testament to Prague's rich history, blending aristocratic opulence, artistic heritage, and political significance.
Local tips
- Take a moment to appreciate the statues on the palace's roof, crafted by Ignaz Franz Platzer.
- Check the National Gallery's website for current exhibitions and events at the palace.
- Visit during the holidays for potential free entry to the Kinsky Palace National Gallery.
A brief summary to The Golz-Kinsky Palace
- Staroměstské nám. 1/3, Old Town, 110 00, CZ
- +420224301122
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Golz-Kinsky Palace is easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro Line A to Staroměstská station, which is the closest to Old Town Square. Alternatively, take Metro Line B to Můstek or Náměstí Republiky stations, both within a short walking distance of the square. Several tram lines also stop near Old Town Square, including trams 2, 17 and 18 to Staroměstská or tram 17 to Právnická fakulta. A 30-minute ticket costs 30 CZK, and a 90-minute ticket is 40 CZK. A 24-hour pass is available for 120 CZK.
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Walking
The Golz-Kinsky Palace is located in the heart of Old Town Square, making it easily accessible on foot from many central Prague locations. From Charles Bridge, cross Jana Palacha Square and walk along Kaprova Street for about 5 minutes to reach Old Town Square. From Wenceslas Square, it's about a 10-15 minute walk. As you approach the square, look for the distinctive pink and white facade of the palace.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Prague. A short taxi ride from locations in the city center to Old Town Square typically costs between 90 CZK and 120 CZK. Keep in mind that fares can vary depending on the company, time of day, and traffic conditions. It's advisable to use a trusted app or company and ensure the taximeter is reset before starting your journey.
Attractions Nearby to The Golz-Kinsky Palace
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Stone Bell House
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Jan Hus monument
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Old Town
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Old Town Square
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Prague Meridian
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The House at the White Unicorn
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Mariánský sloup
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Central Gallery
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Church of Our Lady before Týn
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Prague Pub Crawl
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Discover Prague Tours
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Madame Tussauds Prague
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Prague Beer Tours & Tastings Prague
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House at the Golden Ring
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Old Town Underground
Landmarks nearby to The Golz-Kinsky Palace
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Staroměstské nám.
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The House at the Little Stone Ram
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Old Town Square Residence by Emblem
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Memorial plaque to the victims of the 1945 Prague Uprising
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Nám. Franze Kafky
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St. Salvator Church in Prague
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Tyn yard - Ungelt
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Karolinum
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Celetná
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Maiselova synagoga
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Kuřácká Zeď
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Statue of Franz Kafka
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The House at the Black Madonna
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Bohemia restaurace
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Central Bohemian Tourism Board