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Klementinum: A Baroque Masterpiece in Prague

Explore Prague's Klementinum: A historic Baroque complex housing a stunning library, astronomical tower, and centuries of knowledge and culture.

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The Klementinum, Prague's second-largest building complex after Prague Castle, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. This historical gem houses the National Library of the Czech Republic and offers visitors a glimpse into centuries of scholarship, science, and culture.

A brief summary to Klementinum

Local tips

  • Book your guided tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you don't miss out on exploring this popular attraction.
  • Be prepared to climb 172 steps to reach the top of the Astronomical Tower for panoramic city views. There is a lift to the third floor, then 87 steps to the top.
  • Check the Klementinum's website for the current schedule of classical music concerts held in the Mirror Chapel.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing.
  • Note that the tour route is not wheelchair accessible due to the many staircases.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Old Town Square, walk east towards Charles Bridge. Pass the Astronomical Clock and continue down Karlova Street. The Klementinum will be on your left, with entrances on Karlova Street and Mariánské náměstí. Allow approximately 5-10 minutes for a leisurely walk. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    Take Metro Line A to Staroměstská station. From the station, walk towards Charles Bridge and turn left onto Karlova Street. The Klementinum will be on your left. Alternatively, take tram lines 2, 17, or 18 to the Karlovy lázně stop. Walk a short distance to Karlova Street and find the Klementinum on your right. A single 30-minute public transport ticket costs 30 CZK.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a ride to Klementinum, Karlova Street, Prague 1. Be aware that traffic in the Old Town can be congested, especially during peak hours. Expect to pay approximately 150-250 CZK for a short ride from most central locations.

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Discover more about Klementinum

The Klementinum is a sprawling complex of historic buildings in Prague's Old Town, a testament to the city's rich cultural and intellectual history. Second in size only to Prague Castle, this architectural marvel has evolved over centuries, with its origins dating back to the 11th century. What began as a chapel dedicated to Saint Clement transformed into a Dominican monastery and, later, a Jesuit college, eventually becoming the home of the National Library of the Czech Republic. The Klementinum's story is intertwined with the arrival of the Jesuits in Prague in the 16th century. They expanded the site, creating a vast college that became a center of learning. The complex boasts a mix of architectural styles, with Baroque predominating, reflecting the extensive construction and remodeling that took place between the 16th and 18th centuries. Key highlights include the Baroque Library Hall, with its stunning frescoes and rare globes; the Meridian Hall, used for determining noon; and the Astronomical Tower, offering panoramic views of Prague. The Mirror Chapel, with its dazzling mirror-decorated ceiling, is another gem within the complex. Today, visitors can explore the Klementinum through guided tours, which typically include the Baroque Library Hall, the Meridian Hall, and the Astronomical Tower. The Baroque Library Hall, completed in 1727, houses over 27,000 volumes of theological literature and is adorned with frescoes depicting science and art. The Astronomical Tower, standing 68 meters tall, provides 360° views of Prague's historical center after a climb of 172 steps. The Klementinum stands as a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture, offering a captivating experience for tourists.

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