The Mirror Chapel
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Idiom Installation: A Tower of Infinite Knowledge
Discover Prague's 'Column of Knowledge': An infinite book tower creating an amazing optical illusion in the Municipal Library. A must-see!
The Idiom installation, found within Prague's Municipal Library, is a captivating art piece by Slovak artist Matej Krén. Constructed from approximately 8,000 books and cleverly arranged with mirrors, it creates the illusion of an endless well of knowledge, drawing tourists and locals alike since 1998.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Idiom Installation
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Josefov, Prague 1, 110 00, CZ
Monday
1 pm-7:30 pm
Tuesday
9 am-7:30 pm
Wednesday
9 am-7:30 pm
Thursday
9 am-7:30 pm
Friday
9 am-7:30 pm
Saturday
1 pm-5:30 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
The Idiom Installation is easily accessible via Prague's efficient public transport system. From anywhere in the city center, take Metro Line A (Green) to the 'Staroměstská' station. Upon exiting the station, follow the signs towards Mariánské náměstí, where the Municipal Library is located. The library is a short, less than 5-minute walk from the metro station. A single 30-minute ticket costs 30 CZK, while a 90-minute ticket costs 40 CZK. A 24-hour pass is available for 120 CZK. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at metro stations and some tram stops. Remember to validate your ticket upon entering the metro station or tram.
Walking
The Municipal Library, home to the Idiom Installation, is located in the heart of Prague's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot. From the Old Town Square, walk west towards Mariánské náměstí. The library is situated on the square, a short walk from the square's astronomical clock. Walking from Charles Bridge, cross the bridge towards Old Town and continue straight. You will soon reach Karlova Street, a main thoroughfare leading to the Old Town Square. Turn right onto Mariánské náměstí. The library will be on your left. There are no costs associated with walking, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of Prague's Old Town while making your way to the Idiom Installation.
Taxi/Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Prague and offer a convenient way to reach the Idiom Installation. Simply provide the destination address, Mariánské náměstí 98/1, Prague 1, to the driver. From Wenceslas Square, a taxi ride to the Municipal Library will typically cost between 150 CZK to 200 CZK, depending on traffic. Keep in mind that regulated taxi fares in Prague are approximately 40 CZK for the initial fee, plus 36 CZK per kilometer. Uber and Bolt may offer slightly lower fares, but prices can fluctuate based on demand.
Local tips
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Visit during weekday mornings or early afternoons to avoid the largest crowds and have a more intimate viewing experience.
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The library is closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Be prepared to queue, especially during peak tourist season. The wait can sometimes exceed 30 minutes.
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Remember not to touch the sculpture and avoid using tripods when taking photos.
Discover more about Idiom Installation
Located in the heart of Prague's Old Town, within the Municipal Library, the Idiom installation is a mesmerizing monument to the boundless nature of knowledge. Created by Slovak artist Matej Krén, this thought-provoking piece has been a fixture since 1998 and has gained increasing popularity thanks to social media.
The installation itself is a cylindrical tower constructed from approximately 8,000 books, many of which were donated or saved from being pulped. The books are stacked to form a column, with a tear-shaped opening on one side. Peeking inside this opening reveals the true magic of Idiom: mirrors placed at the top and bottom create an illusion of an infinite tunnel of books, symbolizing the limitless potential of knowledge.
The Idiom has become a significant cultural landmark in Prague, attracting visitors who line up to witness its optical illusion and contemplate its deeper meaning. It has been featured in Lonely Planet and on the cover of the journal *Science*. The library kindly asks visitors to refrain from touching the sculpture and to use cameras without tripods for personal use only. Be prepared for queues, especially during peak tourist season.
Beyond the Idiom installation, the Municipal Library itself is worth exploring. Housed in an Art Deco building dating back to the 1920s, it offers a peaceful environment for reading and study. The library also hosts cultural events, including concerts, lectures, and film screenings.
A brief summary to Idiom Installation
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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