Lobkowicz Palace

Lobkowicz Palace, at the eastern gate of Prague Castle, is an impressive Baroque building and today the only privately owned part of the castle complex. The history of the property goes back to the 16th century, when the lords of Pernstein had a magnificent Renaissance palace built here. After a devastating fire and the transfer of ownership to the Lobkowicz family in the early 17th century, the building was remodeled into its present Baroque form in the late 17th century by the Italian architect Carlo Lurago. A story was added to the house, along with stately terraces that offer sweeping views over the capital. Inside, remnants of the original Renaissance wall paintings and sgraffito in the courtyards bear witness to the building's long history.

Since 2007, the palace has housed a museum displaying part of the Lobkowicz family's extensive art collections. In several halls, you can admire works by Old Masters such as Canaletto, Bruegel, and Velázquez. A particular highlight is the collection of historic musical instruments, along with original manuscripts and scores by composers such as Mozart and Beethoven, which were given to the family in gratitude for their patronage. The St. Wenceslas Chapel, preserved in its original condition, invites you to linger with its frescoes and the altarpiece by Peter Johann Brandl. Chamber concerts are held regularly in the Baroque concert hall, adding to the cultural appeal of the place.