Museums

What`s on - museum events, activities and exhibitions

MUSEUMS

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM (NÁRODNÍ MUZEUM)

Founded in 1818, this monumental neo-renaissance building designed by architect Josef Schulz opened 18 May 1891. The National Museum houses 20 million items, 21 exhibitions in Prague and 13 exhibitions outside of Prague and is the largest museum in the Czech Republic.

Alternate opening hours of all National Museum buildings will be posted online at www.nm.cz.

HISTORIC BUILDING OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM:

Prague 1, Václavské nám. 68

Beginning 7 July 2011, the historical National Museum building will be closed for the next five years.

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM NEW BUILDING

Prague 1, Vinohradská 1

tel. 224 497 111, 224 497 352, 224 497 442, e-mail: nm@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

Former Federal Assembly building

Handicap accessible.

Opening hours: Mon. – Tue. and Thurs. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Wed. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: full: CZK 100, reduced: CZK 70, children under 6 years of age free of charge, family ticket: CZK 170, school groups: CZK 30 per student, year-round ticket: CZK 400.

Guided tours must be scheduled at the following numbers: 224 497 443-4, e–mail: vzdelavani@nm.cz. Tour duration: 60 min. Admission: CZK 80, scheduled groups of 7-30 visitors – CZK 500.

Fee for filming or photographing: CZK 40.

EXHIBITIONS:

Inventions and Inventors. Contact lens machine, ornitopter aerosledge, kinetoscope or Kaplan turbine. These are just a few of the Czech inventions visitors will be able to see and try (some of them). Until 1 May.

The Beauty of Butterfly Wings. Showcasing macro photographs of colourful wings from the National Museum’s collections, as well as authentic scientific illustrations and artworks from leading and lesser-known artists. Also featuring large-format audio-visual projection from the lives of butterflies. Until 1 May.

Arma Diaboli. Exhibition introducing a practically unknown collection of crossbows from the National Museum’s archives plus a selection of rare weapons and armour including unique medieval shields. Lavishly decorated crossbows lead visitors to scenes of noble families enjoying secular pleasures during the renaissance. A crossbow, originally a deadly weapon, is transformed here into a tool for passing the time, as well as noble sportsmanship. 24 Feb. – 1 May.

CZECH MUSIC MUSEUM (ČESKÉ MUZEUM HUDBY)

Prague 1, Karmelitská 2, tel. 257 257 777, 257 257 757, fax 257 322 216, e-mail: c_muzeum_hudby@nm.cz, museum_musicale@nm.cz, musicmuseum_pr@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

Baroque Church of St. Maria Magdalene in the Lesser Town.

Handicap accessible.

Opening hours: Mon. 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: long-term exhibition – full: CZK 60, reduced: CZK 30, Antonín Dvořák short-term exhibit + long-term exhibition – full: CZK 120, reduced: CZK 60, Antonín Dvořák short-term exhibit + long-term exhibition + Antonín Dvořák Museum + Antonín Dvořák Memorial in Nelahozeves – full: CZK 150, reduced: CZK 75, family ticket: CZK 225, children under 6 years of age free of charge, school groups – CZK 30 per person.

Guided tours for groups of up to 20 may be reserved in advance: CZK 300 (in Czech), CZK 600 (in foreign languages).

Fee for filming or photographing: CZK 40.

Orchestrion Wrede from 1910 is turned on every first Thursday of the month at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Sheet music store and Cafe via Musica are open Mon. and Tue. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., other days during museum opening hours and during concerts.

PERMANENT EXHIBITION:

Human - Instrument - Music. Showcasing 400 historic musical instruments of outstanding value. Including the hammer piano Wolfgang Amadeus during his first visit to Prague in January 1787, Niccolò Amati’s violin (from around 1650), glass harmonica, ninera with the "Annunciation” carving, et.

EXHIBITION:

Antonín Dvořák (170th anniversary of his birth). Exhibition introducing new facts about the composer's life and work, mainly rare personal belongings, correspondence and original scores of his compositions. A highlight of the exhibit: autograph of his most popular 9th Symphony From the New World. Until 29 Feb.

SHORT-TERM EXHIBITS IN THE HUMAN-INSTRUMENT-MUSIC EXHIBITION:

Jaroslav Ježek (1906 Prague – 1942 New York). Exhibit featuring personal artefacts and photographs from the composer's legacy which have not yet been exhibited, as well as documents depicting international reactions to his work. Until 12 March.

František Xaver Brixi (1732–1771) – the 280th anniversary of his birth. Exhibit commemorating the work of this leading late 18th century Czech composer. Until 12 March.

CONCERT:

16 Thurs. Rosa Chamber Choir. Program: Antonín Dvořák: In Nature’s Realm, op. 63, Armida’s aria, Humoresques, op. 101 and Moravian Duets. Admission free – 7 p.m.

 

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM LAPIDARY

Prague 7, Výstaviště No. 422, tel. box office tel. 233 375 636, manager + fax 224 497 364, curator 224 497 191, 724 412 257, e–mail: lapidarium@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

Handicap accessible.

Directions: metro B to Holešovice Train station, walk 10 mins or tram 5, 12, 14, 15, 17 to Výstaviště st. The Lapidary is located left off the main gate.

Opening hours: Wed. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Thurs. – Sun. 12 noon – 6 p.m.

Admission: full ticket – CZK 50, reduced – CZK 30, family ticket – CZK 80 and student groups – CZK 10 per person.

Fee for filming and photographing: CZK 30.

CDs on sale – interactive guide to the Lapidary exhibitions: CZK 250.

The building was constructed at the Prague Exhibition Grounds in 1891. Today it houses an exhibition featuring 11th-19th century Czech stone sculpting, relics from houses torn down during urban reconstruction, gothic sculptures from Parléř’s workshop, the Marian Column from the Old Town Square, originals of seven statues from the Charles Bridge, Matyáš Bernard Braun: St. Luitgarde’s Vision. In 1995 Lapidarium was ranked among the top ten museum exhibitions in Europe.

ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK MUSEUM

Prague 2, Ke Karlovu 20, tel. 224 918 013, tel./fax 224 923 363, e–mail: a_dvorak_museum@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

Opening hours: daily except Mondays 10 a.m. – 1.30 p.m. and 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Admission: full ticket – CZK 50, reduced – CZK 25, family ticket – CZK 90 and student groups – CZK 10 per person.

Guided tours (must be ordered by phone prior for 1 – 30 persons): CZK 200 (in Czech), CZK 500 (in foreign languages).

Fee for filming or photographing: CZK 30.

America Baroque Summer Palace in Karlov, built 1717–1720 based on K. I. Dienzenhoffer’s design. The Antonín Dvořák (1841–1904) exhibition comprises the composer’s piano, furniture and personal items. The museum garden is decorated by sculptures from Matyáš Braun.

EXHIBITIONS:

Antonín Dvořák’s diplomas. As Dvořák was gaining notoriety, he received numerous diplomas and honourable memberships from various leading music and cultural institutions. These documents have yet to be exhibited and illustrate the artistic style of that era.

Indian – Dvořák’s American secretary J. J. Kovařík. Dvořáka was accompanied during his travels in America by a young Czech-American Kovařík. Dvořák spent one strange summer with Czech expats and his "Indian" (which he used to call Kovařík) in his home village Spillville in Iowa. This is where the famous American Quartet was created. From 27 Jan.

CONCERTS:

Every Tuesday and Friday: Wonderful Dvořák. Performance organized by Original Music Theatre – 8 p.m.

More information at www.musictheatre.cz, tel. 235 518 045.

BEDŘICH SMETANA MUSEUM

Prague 1, Novotného lávka 1, tel./fax 222 220 082, e-mail: b_smetana_muzeum@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

Opening hours: daily except Tuesdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Admission: full ticket – CZK 50, reduced – CZK 25, family ticket – CZK 90 and student groups – CZK 10 per person.

Guided tours (must be ordered by phone prior for 1 – 30 persons): CZK 200 (in Czech), CZK 500 (in foreign languages).

Fee for filming or photographing: CZK 30.

This neo-renaissance building of the former Old Town Waterworks from 1883–1884 with extensive graphite decorations designed by Mikoláš Alš and František Ženíšek houses the Bedřich Smetana (1824–1884), His Life and Work exhibition. Showcasing an almost complete collection of the composer’s manuscripts, samples of his autographs, personal letters and diaries. Also available: music stands with Smetana’s compositions controlled by laser baton.

EXHIBITION:

All Czechs Love Music, Don’t They? Exhibition organized in cooperation with the Jindřichuv Hradec Regional Museum about the life and career of Emmy Destinn in relationship with plays based on Smetana’s operas The Bartered Bride and Dalibor and Libuše. Until 28 Feb. 2013.

CONCERT:

28 Tue. Lenka Kotrbová and Luboš Skala. Recital of winners of the Dvořák International Vocal competition in Karlovy Vary in Nov. 2011. Piano: Prof. Katarína Bachmannová and Prof. Jaroslav Šaroun – 4.30 p.m.

NÁPRSTEK MUSEUM OF ASIAN, AFRICAN AND AMERICAN CULTURES (NÁPRSTKOVO MUZEUM)

Prague 1, Betlémské nám. 1, tel. 224 497 500 or 511, e-mail: naprstek@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

A set of buildings of the former U Halánků Brewery.

Opening hours: Tue. and Thurs. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Wed. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: full – CZK 80, reduced – CZK 50, family – CZK 130, children under 6 years of age free, school groups of more than 5 people – CZK 30 per person, year-round ticket – CZK 400.

There is a fee for taking photos (without flash) and video: CZK 30.

Sale of photographs, catalogues, publications, souvenirs, replicas of exhibited items.

PERMANENT EXHIBITIONS:

America. Permanent exhibition of native-American cultures from the Arctic, north-western coast, California and south-western North America introducing the indigenous cultures and the combination of native and western cultures.

Cultures of Australia and Oceania.Upon entering the exhibition, visitors will first see the objects they used most often – weapons (boomerangs, clubs and spears), digging sticks, baskets and plant-made bags. The other part of the exhibition documents material and spiritual culture in the Melanesian Islands, populated by farmers and fishermen. Included countries: New Guinea, New Caledonia, Salomon Islands and New Ireland. The next part features artefacts from Micronesia and Polynesia.

Nias – the island of ancestors and myths. Exhibition showcasing the unique culture of this Indonesian island, as seen by experienced traveller Pavel Durdík in the late 19th century. The exhibition hall is divided into themes – architecture, livelihood, an average day on Nias, the cult of ancestors, war, processing materials and object production (wood, clay, metals, weaving, use of textiles, knitting and the production of tapa cloth). The main part of the exhibit consists of adus – figures of predecessors which were believed to be protectors. Also on display: jewellery, clothes and weapons.

Vojta Náprstek – Local Politician. Exhibition commemorating this Prague patron, philanthropist, patriot, museum founder and politician. Introducing his numerous and various activities. EXHIBITIONS:

Those Who Outlived Us.

Exhibition commemorating the 185th birthday of Vojta Naprstek.

 The U Halánků house served as a meeting point for a large community of politicians, scientists, writers and explorers since the 1860s in support of Naprstek’s efforts. The individuals who regularly visited Náprstek’s libraries will be remembered through obituaries and Naprstek’s descriptions which have been preserved. Until 4 March.

Jolly Skeletons. Exhibition introducing popular Mexican ceremonies and festivals that reflect a religion which incorporates both Christian beliefs and pre-Christian rituals in a syncretistic manner. The exhibition focuses on ceremonies held during Autumn and Winter which coincide with religious festivals such as The Day of the Dead, Christmas and The Three Kings, culminating with carnival masks at Shrovetide. Until 4 March.

Dr. Emil Holub – The Story of a Traveller. Commemorating the 110th anniversary of the most famous Czech traveller’s death. He lived in Africa from 1872–1879 and 1883–1886. He brought a large number of ethnographic objects and minerals back to the Czech Republic. Along with his extensive literary work, he has influenced the image of Africa in the Austrian Monarchy for a long time. The exhibit will introduce the life and travels of this unique person through rare documents, photographs and other materials from the museum’s archives. 1 Feb. – 10 April.

NATIONAL MEMORIAL ON THE VÍTKOV HILL

Prague 3, U Památníku 1900, tel./voice mail 222 781 676, e–mail: oncd@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

Handicap accessible.

Directions: from Ohrada (tram, bus) through the park about 1,400 m, from the Czech Army Museum, from Tachovské nám. (bus 207, 133).

Opening hours: Thurs. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; roof with a view closes at 6 p.m. (last entry at 5.30 p.m.).

Admission: exhibit – full: CZK 60, reduced: CZK 30, family: CZK 90, school groups: CZK 20 per person; roof with a view – full: CZK 80, reduced: CZK 50, family: CZK 130, school groups: CZK 30 per person; comprehensive ticket – full: CZK 110, reduced: CZK: 60, family: CZK 170, school groups: CZK 40; year-round ticket: CZK 500.

Guided tours: in Czech – CZK 200, other languages – CZK 500.

Fee for photographing and filming: exhibitions: CZK 50, entire facility: CZK 80.

National Memorial at Vítkov Hill built in 1928-1938 as a tribute to Czechoslovak legionnaires. The exhibition reflects some important milestones in modern history. The Grave of the Unknown Soldier, the monumental equestrian statue of Jan Žižka and a Cafe with a view of Prague. The Crossroads of Czech and Slovak Statehood exhibition documents milestones in the 20th century.

EXHIBITION:

Red Museum. They contribute to the creation of collective identities of individual nations by providing historic images and concepts. While presenting the past, they can be used to create stereotypes and a particular vision of the world. During the communist dictatorship, museums have preserved a memory which was not that of the public but rather the ruling elite's narrow views. In Czechoslovakia too, stories of public historical events lost their multi-significance. Instead, they were replaced by a single official story mediating the past which became a tool for the hegemony of the new political regime's memory. Until 4 March.

MUSAION – MUSEUM OF ETHNOGRAPHY

Kinský Summer Palace, Kinského zahrada 98, Prague 5, tel. 257 214 806, 257 325 766, e–mail: narodopis@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

Opening hours: daily except Mondays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: full – CZK 70, reduced – CZK 40, family – CZK 110, children under 6 years of age free, school groups of more than 5 people – CZK 30 per person.

Fee for filming or photographing: CZK 30.

Also available: pleasant cafe and a souvenir shop offering folk art and culture.

The Kinský Classicist Summer House was built in 1827–1831 by architect Heinrich Koch. The permanent exhibition, nominated for the 2007 European Museum of the Year Award, introduces everyday life in the countryside, as well as festive moments in village life during the late 19th and early 20th century – folk costumes, traditional agriculture, handicrafts, accommodation and residential furnishings and folk art. A special part of the exhibition features traditions and ceremonies related to individual seasons – from lent to Christmas – and the customs connected with the course of human life.

EXHIBITION:

Bandits - Heroes or Criminals? Exhibition featuring the Carpathian bandit phenomenon which was very important at the time. On display: authentic artefacts. Until 26 Feb.

JAROSLAV JEZEK MEMORIAL (PAMÁTNÍK JAROSLAVA JEŽKA)

The Blue Room (Modrý pokoj)

Prague 1, Kaprova 10, information at tel. 257 327 285, e–mail: museum_musicale@nm.cz, www.nm.cz

Opening hours: Tue. 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: full ticket – CZK 10, reduced – CZK 5, family ticket – CZK 20 and student groups – CZK 5 per person.

Fee for filming or photographing: CZK 20.

The Blue Room in Ježek's apartment is the authentic interior where the famous composer lived and worked. It includes his library, piano, notes and personal items.

PRAGUE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM (MUZEUM HLAVNÍHO MĚSTA PRAHY)

MAIN MUSEUM BUILDING

Prague 8, Na Poříčí 52, tel. 224 816 772–3, 606 859 951, main office: Prague 1, Kožná 1, tel. 224 227 490, e–mail: muzeum@muzeumprahy.cz, www.muzeumprahy.cz

Opening hours: daily except Mondays 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: full – CZK 120, reduced – CZK 50 (students, seniors), family – CZK 200, children under 6 years of age and handicapped persons free, school groups – CZK 30 per person. (teachers free).

Combined ticket for the main museum building at Na Poříčí and the former Podskalska Custom House at Výton: full – CZK 130, reduced – CZK 60, family – CZK 220 – may be purchased in both museum buildings.

Open until 6 p.m. every first Thursday of the month, admission free for students and seniors, others only CZK 10. Every last Wednesday of the month: extended opening hours until 8 p.m.

Discounts offered for returning visits.

PERMANENT EXHIBITIONS:

Ancient Prague

Medieval Prague

Prague at the Turn of Middle Ages (1437-1620)

Baroque Prague (1620-1784)

Langweil’a Model of Prague from 1826-1837. Unique hand-made cardboard model.

3D cinema- virtual flight over Langweil’s model of Prague. Open daily except Monday every thirty minutes 9.30 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. Admission: full ticket – CZK 30, reduced ticket – CZK 15. Every first Thursday of the month – reservations are required at tel. 221 709 674, e–mail: 3Dkino@muzeumprahy.cz.

Museum for Children - Welcome to the Middle Ages. Exhibition for children, designed as a playroom to reflect the interior of a 14th – 15th century Prague house.

Romanesque and Gothic Architecture. Tactile exhibit designed especially for visually-handicapped visitors focused on Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

EXHIBITIONS:

Golden Cut – international woodcarving symposium. Wooden reliefs featuring the theme The World from woodcarving and vocational school students. Until 30 Jan.

Merkur Blocks. Exhibition featuring the famous Czech construction kit Merkur. The author, Jaroslav Vancl, surely has had no idea his product would hold its value in the age of virtual reality. Until 26 Feb.

Prague and Her Daughters. The exhibition aims to map out the history of Prague through the stories of her female residents. Showcasing not only famous women who have influenced the life and history of Prague, but also many nameless residents from ancient times until present. Until 15 April.

 

Müller Villa

National cultural heritage

Prague 6 – Střešovice, Nad Hradním vodojemem 14/642

Internationally acclaimed works by the leading Czech Avant-garde architect Adolf Loos (1870–1933).

Opening hours: Tue., Thurs., Sat., Sun. Tours: 10 a.m., 12 noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Admission: full – CZK 300, reduced (students, seniors, handicapped) – CZK 200, children under 6 free of charge (only if accompanied by an adult), fee for foreign language tours – CZK 150 per person. Gift tickets available.

Reservations required at tel. 224 312 012, e–mail: vila.muller@muzeumprahy.cz. Guided tours only, max. 7 persons per group.

 

MUSEUMS FROM A TO Z

HOUSE OF CHOCOLATE

1st Czech museum of chocolate and chocolate paintings by Vladomír Čech

Prague 2, Oldřichova 20, tel. 607 919 438, e–mail: cokoladovemuzeum@seznam.cz, www.cokoladovydum.cz

Opening hours: Fri. 2 p.m. – 6 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 12 noon – 6 p.m., remaining days are reserved for group visits.

Admission: full – CZK 150, reduced – CZK 90, ZTP card holders – CZK 75.

The House of Chocolate offers education as well as entertainment.

EXHIBITION:

The exhibition consists of 8 parts: The history of chocolate: the old world – America; the new world – Europe; history of chocolate in Bohemia; overview of current Czech producers; collection of chocolate wrappers; production technology; cultivation – outdoor exhibit featuring live plants; internationally acclaimed collection of chocolate paintings from Vladomír Čech.

ACCOMPANYING PROGRAM:

Paintingwith chocolate on paper, canvas, with fingers dipped in sugar, engraving into a chocolate wall, face–painting – all included in the admission price.

Demonstrations of chocolate bonbon production featuring sampling every hour – included in the admission price.

Workshops– casting of colourful chocolate, modeling of chocolate figures or paintings, etc.

Choco emergency, choco club, a course in bonbon making, tart decorating course.

CHOCO–STORY PRAHA

Museum of Chocolate

Prague 1, Celetná 10, tel. 224 242 953, e–mail: info@choco–story–praha.cz, www.choco–story–praha.cz

Opening hours: daily 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Admission: Full – CZK 140; seniors, students and children 6-15 years – CZK 90; children 3-6 years – CZK 25; family tickets (2 adults + 3 children) – CZK 350; groups (min. 15 people) – CZK 120 per person, school groups – CZK 65 per person (teachers free of charge).

EXHIBITION:

Choco–Story Praha has recently been ranked 7th best chocolate museum in the world.

People often ask: Where does chocolate come from? How did it get to Europe? What is the secret of excellent chocolate? Why has chocolate been used as medicine? The Choco–Story Praha Museum will answer all these questions relating to the 2,600-year history of chocolate. Discover the exciting world of chocolate and its history. Not only for your eyes but for your taste buds as well.

The museum is divided into three parts. The first focuses on history: the history of cocoa as a drink and its journey to Europe; the second depicts the birth of chocolate including types of processing techniques used at present; the third introduces a unique collection of historical chocolate wrappers. In the demonstration centre, visitors will witness the secret of silky smooth chocolate production and will have an opportunity to taste the products being prepared in the museum. This is a unique collection and museum in Prague.

ACCOMPANYING PROGRAM:

Demonstrations. Every 30 minutes. Working with chocolate to make it nice and delicious, sampling of true Belgian pralines.

Group tours and guided tours for schools including a chocolate making demonstration. Please call the number above 2 days prior to your planned visit.

LOBKOWICZ PALACE

Prague 1, Jiřská 3, tel 233 312 925, e–mail: info@lobkowiczevents.cz, www.lobkowicz.cz

Opening hours: daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: full ticket – CZK 275, reduced ticket – CZK 200. The admission includes an audio guide in Czech (and seven additional languages) recorded by the Lobkowicz family.

PERMANENT EXHIBITION:

Treasures from the Lobkowicz collections. Permanent exhibition open since 2007, after several years of Palace reconstruction. The Lobkowicz collection from Roudnice is one of the most extensive art collections in Central Europe. Over the course of 700 years, the Lobkowicz family managed to amass a unique collection of artworks including paintings, decorative items, original music scores and instruments, as well as weapons and hunting gear.

Master works of art, Spanish portraits from the 16th century and a collection of original scores from internationally renowned composers and historic instruments are among the most interesting artefacts showcased.

KAMPA MUSEUM

Jan and Meda Mládek Foundation

Prague 1, U Sovových mlýnů 503/2, tel. 257 286 147, fax 257 286 113, e–mail: info@museumkampa.cz, www.museumkampa.cz

Opening hours: daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

PERMANENT EXHIBITION:

František Kupka. One of the leading collections of works by this pioneer of abstract art. Showcasing his student works, abstract works as well as later works.

Otto Gutfreund. On display – mainly cubist sculpture bronze casts by this leading Czech sculptor from the early 1920s.

Modern Central European Art. Exhibition presenting the work from leading Czech, Slovak, Polish, Hungarian and Yugoslav artists, mainly their works from the 1960s – 1980s, and present.

EXHIBITION:

Eduard Ovčáček: An overview of his works. In the former stables, visitors will be able to see a selection of the artist's work from 1960 to the present. The focus will be on the author’s experimental areas, mainly letterism and minimalism while using traditional and new techniques. Until 5 Feb.

OTHER PROGRAMS:

Guided tours: in Czech, English, German and Italian. For reservations, contact the above phone number, fax, e-mail, museum box office or administrative office.

More at http://www.museumkampa.cz/programy.

THE CHARLES BRIDGE MUSEUM (MUZEUM KARLOVA MOSTU)

Prague 1 – Staré Město, Křižovnické nám. 3, tel. 776 776 779, www.muzeumkarlovamostu.cz

Directions: metro A to Staroměstská st.; tram 17, 18 to Staroměstská st.

Opening hours: daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: full ticket – CZK 150, reduced – CZK 70, family ticket – CZK 320 and student groups – CZK 50 per person.

Museum, Cafe and museum shop.

PERMANENT EXHIBITION:

The museum located in the original Order of the Knights of the Cross hospital and the Church of the Holy Spirit (currently St. Francis) introduces mainly the 14th-15th century and the 19th- 20th century bridge building industry. Also on display: artwork linking the bridge with the Order of the Knights of the Cross with the Red Star; Only this true Czech male order was entitled to collect customs duties and tolls and in return they were obliged to take care of the bridge.

Also showcasing: stone construction elements, original building tools, replicas of old machines (including a 4m winch), unique models of the Judith Bridge and Charles Bridge, sculptures from the end towers and the bridge itself, the gothic altar by the grand master of the Knights, Mikuláš Puchner, clothing items from the order, Jiří Heinsch’s baroque lunette paintings, historic engravings, drawings etc. Many items are true rarities.

For the first time on display: the first and second Prague stone bridges, i.e. Judith and Charles bridges, on a single model. Items are on loan from the National Museum, National Technical Museum, Prague Castle Administration and Order of the Knights of the Cross with the Red Star.

Also open: the underground church of the order of the Cross, the foundation of the Judith’s bridge from the 12th century as well as the original terrain level with a ramp to this first Prague stone bridge, including tiles with grout. The Charles Bridge Museum offers visitors an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of this unique monument.

NEW EXHIBITION:

The reconstruction of the Charles Bridge. The project documents the history of repairs, working methods and surprising new findings, in addition to other results acquired during the reconstruction of this important monument.

Stone building symbols from the entire bridge are a part of the tactile exhibition for visitors with impaired vision.

Photographer Martin Frouz provided his archive to set-up a comparison photographic exhibition documenting individual stages of the repairs (before and after status).

The Repair Info Centre is located directly in the museum and its goal is to inform about new discoveries. Information about the reconstruction may be found online at www.opravakarlovamostu.cz.

EXHIBITION:

Three Centuries of Nativity Scenes. Until 6 Feb.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAM:

Prague Venice – canal cruises from Judith’s Bridge with live lectures on the Charles Bridge.

ALCHYMISTA MUSEUM OF COFFEE

Prague 7, Jana Zajíce 7 (200 m from the Sparta tram stop), tel. 233 383 745, www.muzeumkavy.cz

Opening hours: daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The Alchymista Cafe (www.alchymista.cz) offers freshly roasted coffee. Opening hours: 10.30 a.m. – 7.30 p.m.

PERMANENT EXHIBITION:

The Coffee Phenomenon. The exhibition documents the rich history of coffee, its cultivation, processing, preparation, storage and serving. The other part of the exhibition features coffee-like products (chicory, wheat coffee, roasted rye, fruit, fig coffee). Also showcasing various types of historic roasters, storage containers, mills and coffeemakers. A collection of over 100 coffee tins and jars maps out the aesthetic diversity of their shapes, decorations and fonts. Also on exhibit: graphic materials (bills, bags, fairy-tales, cut-outs, nativity scenes, and other materials related to advertising). Detailed texts are in Czech and English.

The World of Prague Cafes. Photographs documenting the atmosphere of cafés during the 1920s-1930s.

FOR CHILDREN:

Teddy Bear. A collection of historical teddy bears and dolls with dishes.

MUSEUM OF COMMUNISM

Prague 1, Na Příkopě 10, tel. 224 212 966, e–mail: muzeum@muzeumkomunismu.cz, www.muzeumkomunismu.cz

Museum is located in the Savarin Palace, Na Příkopě 10; directions: metro A, B to Můstek st.

Opening hours: daily 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Guided tours are also available by reservation.

Suggestive picture of the communist era focused on Czechoslovakia, especially Prague:

everyday life, history, sport, economics, education, art (socialist realism), media propaganda, People’s Militia, army, police, (including the secret service StB), censorship, courts and other repressive institutions (including the Stalinism era – political processes and labour camps), etc. Also depicting the regime from the coup d’état in February 1948 to the velvet revolution in 1989.

The museum covers about 450 m² in the Savarin Palace in the centre of Prague, Na Příkopě street 10 (2 min from Wenceslas Square). The spaces are ideal for the demonstration and interpretation of historic documents. The exhibition is accompanied by an oral lecture based on historic data and facts. The organizers do not wish to promote or otherwise comment on current Czech political issues.

This is the first museum in Prague (since the velvet revolution) detailing the system which originated in the former USSR.

MUSEUM OF MINIATURES

Prague 1, Strahovské nádvoří 11 (Strahov Cloister), tel. 233 352 371, www.muzeumminiatur.com

Opening hours: daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Admission: full – CZK 70, students, children and seniors – CZK 50.

many rare items including: a camel caravan in the eye of a needle, A. P. Checkov’s portrait painted on half of a poppy seed, the Lord’s Prayer written on a human hair, the smallest book in the world (0.9 x 0.9 mm) which has been entered in the Guinness Book of World Records and can be viewed under a microscope, a grasshopper playing a fiddle, miniature copies of famous masters’ works (Salvador Dalí, Henri Matisse, Sandro Botticelli, Rembrandt van Rijn, Leonardo da Vinci, etc.), hand-painted on a mammoth bone 10 x 10 mm which can be viewed with a magnifying glass.

All items were produced by Anatoliy Koněnko (*1954) from Omsk, Siberia. He has been creating his miniatures using his own technologies and hand-made tools for the past 20 years, ranking among a handful of artists who create miniatures.

MYSTERIA PRAGENSIA

Prague secrets through two museums

MUSEUM OF OLD PRAGUE ALCHEMISTS AND MAGICIANS (MUZEUM ALCHYMISTŮ A MÁGŮ STARÉ PRAHY)

Prague 1, Jánský vršek 8, tel. 257 224 508, 724 028 152, www.muzeumalchymistu.cz

Opening hours: daily 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

The Donkey in the Cradle House (U osla v kolébce) where the famous alchemist Edward Kelley lived, offers a peak into the mysterious world of centuries past during the reign of Rudolf II, the world of Doctor Faustus and various magicians. Featuring an interactive exhibition of alchemist potions in the original lab, the holes in the ceiling left by Faustus and a unique Kellyxír alchemist cafe.

THE MUSEUM OF PRAGUE GHOSTS AND LEGENDS (MUZEUM PRAŽSKÝCH POVĚSTÍ A STRAŠIDEL)

Prague 1, Školská 18, tel. 257 221 289, 724 028 152, www.muzeumpovesti.cz

Opening hours: daily 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Groups may schedule visits outside opening hours.

EXHIBITION:

Walk through an underground street with old Prague atmosphere and meet the ghosts face to face! Learn famous Prague legends and experience their magic in interactive games. You will understand the true Prague genius loci.

J. A. COMENIUS NATIONAL MUSEUM AND LIBRARY (NÁRODNÍ PEDAGOGICKÉ MUZEUM A KNIHOVNA J. A. KOMENSKÉHO)

Location: Prague 1 – Malá Strana, Valdštejnská 20, tel. 257 533 455, e–mail: pedagog@npmk.cz, www.npmk.cz

Opening hours: daily except Mondays 10 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Note: Closed on 31 Dec. 2011.

Directions: metro A to Malostranská st., tram 12, 18, 20, 22 to Malostranská st.

PERMANENT EXHIBITION:

The Legacy of J. A. Comenius/Traditions and Challenges of Czech Culture and Education within Europe. Under the auspices of the Czech committee for UNESCO and in cooperation with the city of Prague. The exhibition is focused on the development of Czech education from the middle ages to the present in the European context (descriptions in Czech and English). Also on display: unique school items, study books, old prints, maps, a teacher’s office, interactive program entitled J. A. Comenius – His Life, Work and Legacy, documentary projection. Also on display: Igor Kitzbergr’s sculptures.

EXHIBITION:

From the Reign of Maria Theresa to Present/Report Card Transitions Through the Centuries. Visitors will learn about the development of report cards from the introduction of the universal school act of 1774 to the present. On display: report cards from the museum’s collections (the oldest dating back to 1776), as well as report cards donated by individuals. Also showcasing report cards of various famous people. Until 10 June.

NATIONAL TECHNICAL MUSEUM (NÁRODNÍ TECHNICKÉ MUZEUM)

Prague 7, Kostelní 42, tel. 220 399 111, fax 220 399 111, fax 220 399 200, e–mail: info@ntm.cz, www.ntm.cz

Opening hours: Daily except Mon. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Open until 8 p.m. every first Thursday of the month.

Admission: full CZK 170, reduced CZK 90, family CZK 370.

The National Technical Museum founded in 1908 is the largest Czech institution specialized in technical artefacts. It houses collections documenting the development of technology, industry, transportation, architecture and science, Czech and international.

PERMANENT EXHIBITIONS:

History of Transportation. The exhibition shows the history of the automobile, motorcycle, bike, aviation and marine transportation. Parts of the exhibit focus on railroad transport and fire engines and equipment in the Czech Republic.

Architecture, construction and design. Showcasing the architectural milestones in the Czech Republic between 1860 and 1989. On display: original as well as new building models, including sculptures, drawings, plans and photographs.

Astronomy. Designed as an infinite space full of shining stars – unique artefacts. The exhibition is divided into two sections: history of astronomical knowledge and history of astronomical instruments.

Photography studio. The history of photography, its outlets and influence from the 19th century to the present, along with the basic photographic processes and their development in an authentic photography studio.

Printing. Exhibition designed as an authentic printing shop with printing machines, documenting the development of the main printing technologies from the invention of printing to the present.

 

U FLEKŮ BREWERY MUSEUM (PIVOVARSKÉ MUZEUM U FLEKŮ)

Prague 1, Křemencova 11, tel. 224 934 019-20, fax 224 934 805

Opening hours: Mon. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat., Sun. and holidays – min. 10 people per group, with reservations at tel. 224 915 118. Guided tours only. Box office closes one hour before museum closing time. Group visits of max. 20 persons should be confirmed by telephone.

Admission: CZK 50, students – CZK 25.

Tours are offered in the following languages: Czech, English, German, Spanish, Russian, Swedish and Italian.

The permanent exhibition is located in the former malt-house. It offers an excellent opportunity to learn about beer brewing techniques used in the past not only by the U Fleků Brewery but also by dozens of small breweries throughout Prague. It also houses an old malt-kiln as well as other original technological items.

POSTAL MUSEUM (POŠTOVNÍ MUZEUM)

Prague 1, Nové mlýny 2, tel. 222 312 006, fax 222 311 930, www.ceskaposta.cz/cz/muzeum

Opening hours: daily except Mondays and holidays 9 a.m. – 12 noon and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Admission: full – CZK 50, reduced – CZK 10.

Library and research room: Open daily except Mondays 9 a.m. – 12 noon and 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Museum shop: Open Wed. – Sun. 9 a.m. – 12 noon and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Museum branch: Vyšší Brod Postal Museum.

PERMANENT EXHIBITION:

Postal stamps from the Czech Republic and Czechoslovakia including first issue date envelopes (FDC), rare items and counterfeit stamps, the oldest European and other international stamps, UN stamps, special collections – Hradčany, Russian districts, pre-1919 Austrian postal stamps, pre-1871 old German stamps, pre-stamp era letters, postal seals, the first newspaper stamps in the world.

EXHIBITIONS:

Special postcards are published for certain exhibitions.

Jaroslav Němeček: Čtyřlístek Magazine. Until 26 Feb.

Advertisements from the post office of the first Czechoslovak republic. 29 Feb. – 22 April.

THE MUSEUM OF DECORATIVE ARTS IN PRAGUE (UMĚLECKOPRŮMYSLOVÉ MUZEUM V PRAZE)

Prague 1, ul. 17. listopadu 2, tel. 251 093 111, fax 251 093 296, e–mail: info@upm.cz, www.upm.cz

Opening hours: Wed. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Tue. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Admission: permanent and short term exhibit: full CZK 120, reduced CZK 70, family CZK 200; short-term exhibit only: full CZK 80, reduced CZK 40, family CZK 150.

PERMANENT EXHIBITION – STORIES OF MATERIALS:

Stories of Materials – a large selection of artwork from the Museum of Decorative Arts’ collections dating from late Antiquity to the present.

The Story of Fibre – exhibition of textiles and fashion

Printing and Image – exhibition of applied graphic and photographic work

The Art of Fire – exhibition of glass and ceramics

Jewel Case– exhibition of metal and miscellaneous material

Time Machines – exhibition of clocks and watches

Exhibition:

Searching for Glass – Young Czech Glass Artists. This extensive exhibition introduces selected works from 25 young artists and their creative search for new art expressions and technologies. Exhibition organized in conjunction with the 2011 Prague Glass Festival. Exhibition extended until 1 April.

EXHIBITION HALL AND THE STORY OF FIBRE HALL:

Prague Fashion Salons 1900–1948. A continuation of the Czech Fashion series organized by the museum from 1989–2007, this time documenting the rise and fall of the Prague Fashion Salons during 1900–1948 with 80 items on display. A total of 35 factories are represented, including the most luxurious Rosenbaum, Podolská, Roubíčková, Bárta, as well as medium-sized and small companies proving that famous Prague elegance consisted of the combination of perfect hand-made quality, close contact with French fashion and influences from England which were adapted to suit the local environment and life style. Until 29 April.

SERVICES:

UPM Cafe:Opening hours: Mon. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 7.30 p.m., Sat. + Sun. 12 noon – 7.30 p.m.

Museum shop:in the entrance hall. Exhibition catalogues, books on decorative arts, posters and replicas of art works. Opening hours: Tue. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Wed. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

WAX MUSEUM PRAGUE, s. r. o.

Prague 1, Celetná 6, tel. 224 215 585, e–mail: info@waxmuseumprague.cz, www.waxmuseumprague.cz

Opening hours: daily 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Czech and international figures from the area of science, culture and sportsincluding. T. G. Masaryk, F. Kafka, D. Hašek, K. Gott, A. Einstein, C. Chaplin, E. Presley, M. Jagger, etc.

Kaleidoscopic movies, souvenir shop.

JEWISH MUSEUM IN PRAGUE (ŽIDOVSKÉ MUZEUM V PRAZE)

Prague 1, U Staré školy 1, 3, tel. 221 711 511, fax 221 711 584, e–mail: office@jewishmuseum.cz, www.jewishmuseum.cz

Opening hours: daily except Sat. and Jewish holidays, winter season 9 a.m. – 4.30 p.m., summer season 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Admission: full – CZK 300; children 6-15 years of age, students – CZK 200; children under 6 free of charge; ZTP certificate holders with an assistant – CZK 50, groups: adults – CZK 260; children 6-15 years of age and students – CZK 160; children under 6 free of charge, family (2 adults and up to 4 children): Adults: CZK 300, each child CZK 150.

 

Maisel Synagogue

Prague 1, Maiselova ul. 10

Handicap accessible.

Permanent exhibition:

History of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia – from beginning to emancipation. The beginnings of Jewish settlements in Bohemia and Moravia, legal and social status of Jews in the Middle Ages, traditional Jewish education of prominent scholars as well as Mordechai Maisel, the founder of the synagogue during the renaissance period.

Spanish Synagogue

Prague 1, Vězeňská ul. 1

Handicap accessible.

Permanent exhibitions:

History of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia II - from emancipation to present. History of the Jewish community.

WINTER SYNAGOGUE – PRAYER HALL, 1ST FLOOR

Exhibition:

Silver from Czech Synagogues. Artefacts from Bohemia and Moravia from the Jewish Museum’s Collections.

Program: chamber music concerts. More information at www.jewishmuseum.cz.

Pinkas Synagogue

Prague 1, entrance from Široka ul. 3

Permanent exhibitions:

Memorial to the Jewish Victims of the Holocaust from Bohemia and Moravia. Over 80,000 names of victims handwritten on the walls of the synagogue.

Children’s Drawings from Terezín 1942-1944 (1st floor). A selection of drawings which serves as a testament to the cruel fate of children interned at the camp, most of which are the only remembrances of those who did not survive.

Klausen Synagogue

Prague 1, ul. U Starého hřbitova 3a

Permanent exhibitions:

Jewish Traditions and Customs – Synagogue (main nave). The significance of the synagogue and specific holidays.

Jewish Traditions and Customs – The Course of Life (gallery). Everyday life of the Jewish family and customs connected with birth, circumcision, bar mitzvah, wedding, divorce and the Jewish household.

Ceremonial Hall - building housing the Burial Society

Prague 1, ul. U Starého hřbitova 3a

Permanent exhibition:

Jewish Traditions and Customs – The Course of Life. Medicine in the ghetto, death, Jewish cemeteries in Bohemia and Moravia and the activities of the Burial Society.

Old Jewish Cemetery (Starý židovský hřbitov)

Prague 1, entrance from Široka ul. 3

Established in the first part of the 15th century. The oldest tombstone, which marks the grave of the poet and scholar Avigdor Karo, dates from the year 1439. Burials took place in the cemetery until 1787. Presently, there are almost 12,000 tombstones however, the number of buried is much higher. The picturesque groups of tombstones from various periods were created by lifting up the older tombstones. Many prominent people were buried in the Old Jewish Cemetery, such as the great religious scholar and teacher Judah Loew ben Bezalel, known as Rabbi Loew (d. 1609), the Mayor of the Jewish Town Mordechai Maisel (d. 1601), the Renaissance scholar, historian, mathematician and astronomer David Gans.

The Old New Synagogue (Staronová synagoga)

Prague 1, Červená ul.

Managed by the Prague Jewish Community.

The Old New Synagogue was built in the mid-13th century in early gothic style. It is the oldest monument of Prague’s Jewish Town, the oldest preserved synagogue in Europe. It has served as the main synagogue for the Prague Jewish community for over 700 years.

Žižkov Jewish Cemetery

Prague 3, Fibichova ul.

Opening hours: Mon. and Wed. 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. except for Jewish holidays.

Admission: CZK 50.

Published: 1. 2. 2012