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Klementinum: A Baroque Masterpiece of Knowledge and Culture

Explore Prague's Klementinum: A historic Baroque complex with a stunning library, astronomical tower, and panoramic city views.

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The Klementinum, Prague's second-largest building complex after Prague Castle, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture with a rich history. Originally a Jesuit college, it now houses the National Library of the Czech Republic and offers guided tours showcasing its beautiful library hall, astronomical tower, and more.

A brief summary to Klementinum

Local tips

  • Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on a guided tour.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves a significant amount of walking and climbing stairs.
  • Plan your visit on a sunny day to see the noon marking in the Meridian Hall.
  • Note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the many staircases.
  • Check the Klementinum's website for the current schedule of guided tours and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Old Town Square, walk east towards Charles Bridge. Turn left onto Karlova Street. Continue straight, and the Klementinum will be on your right. Alternatively, from Charles Bridge, walk east and turn right onto Karlova Street. The Klementinum will be on your right. There is no fee for walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take Metro Line A to Staroměstská station. From the station, walk towards Křižovnická Street or Karlova Street. The Klementinum has entrances on both streets. Alternatively, take tram lines 17 or 18 to the Karlovy lázně stop. From there, walk a short distance to the Klementinum. A short-term public transport ticket (30 minutes) costs 30 CZK.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Prague's city center. A short taxi ride from Wenceslas Square to the Klementinum will typically cost between 115 CZK to 198 CZK, depending on the distance and traffic. Uber, Bolt, and Liftago are popular taxi apps in Prague. Note that taxi fares are regulated.

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Discover more about Klementinum

The Klementinum is a sprawling complex in Prague's Old Town, a testament to centuries of learning, science, and culture. Its origins trace back to the 11th century with a chapel dedicated to Saint Clement, later transformed into a Dominican monastery. In 1556, the Jesuits arrived, expanding the site into a vast college, which became one of the largest Jesuit colleges in the world. The complex boasts remarkable Baroque architecture, the result of nearly 170 years of construction between the 16th and 18th centuries. Key highlights include the Baroque Library Hall, renowned for its stunning frescoes, antique globes, and a collection of over 27,000 volumes of theological literature. Visitors can also explore the Meridian Hall, which features historical instruments used to determine noon, and ascend the 68-meter Astronomical Tower for panoramic city views. The Klementinum has played a significant role in Czech history and intellectual life. In 1622, it took over the Charles University library, merging with the university in 1654. The complex also housed an observatory, with continuous meteorological measurements taken since 1775, representing one of the longest uninterrupted climate observations in the world. While the Jesuit order was abolished in 1773, the Klementinum continued as a vital center for learning, eventually becoming the National Library. Today, the Klementinum is open to the public through guided tours, offering a glimpse into its rich history and architectural splendor. Visitors can admire the Baroque Library Hall (though viewing is from behind a barrier to protect the delicate interior), explore the Meridian Hall, and climb the Astronomical Tower for breathtaking views of Prague. The Mirror Chapel, with its stunning mirror-decorated ceiling, is another highlight, often hosting classical music concerts.

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