Lobkowicz Palace

Overview

Nestled within the sprawling complex of Prague Castle, the Lobkowicz Palace offers a uniquely intimate glimpse into Bohemian and European history. As the only privately owned building within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Prague Castle, it stands as a testament to centuries of art, music, and the enduring legacy of one of Bohemia's oldest noble families. This Renaissance-style palace, later re-fashioned with Baroque elements, presents its rich story through a remarkable collection of artworks, artifacts, and personal possessions. Visitors are invited to explore twenty-two galleries that showcase world-class masterpieces and historical documents, often accompanied by panoramic views of Prague's enchanting cityscape from its elevated terraces.

History & Cultural Background

The foundations of Lobkowicz Palace were laid in the mid-16th century by Czech nobleman Jaroslav of Pernštejn. His brother, Vratislav of Pernštejn, later completed its construction. The palace became part of the Lobkowicz family's heritage through the marriage of Polyxena of Pernštejn, Vratislav's daughter, to Zdeněk Vojtěch, the 1st Prince Lobkowicz, in the early 17th century.

Over the centuries, the palace witnessed significant moments in Bohemian history. Notably, in 1618, following the Second Defenestration of Prague, the Catholic Imperial Ministers, having survived their fall from the Royal Palace, found refuge and protection within the Lobkowicz Palace under Polyxena's care. The family's influence grew after the Battle of White Mountain, as they remained devout Catholics, consolidating their power.

The 20th century brought immense challenges, as the palace and its collections were confiscated twice: first by the Nazi regime in 1939 and then by the Communist government in 1948. For decades, the family's ancestral home served various state purposes. Following the Velvet Revolution of 1989 and a twelve-year restitution process, the Lobkowicz family finally regained ownership of their palace in 2002, opening it to the public as a museum in 2007.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets Lobkowicz Palace apart is its status as the sole privately owned building within the vast Prague Castle complex, offering a personal and direct connection to centuries of history. It houses the Lobkowicz Collections, recognized as Europe's oldest and largest private art collection in the Czech Republic, encompassing an astonishing 20,000 items.

The museum's highlights are diverse and exceptional. Art enthusiasts can marvel at world-famous paintings by masters such as Pieter Brueghel the Elder, Canaletto, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and Diego Velázquez. The music archive is particularly remarkable, featuring original hand-annotated manuscripts and early prints from legendary composers, including Mozart's re-orchestration of Handel's Messiah and Beethoven's Third, Fourth, and Fifth Symphonies. Beyond these, the collections include exquisite decorative arts, a vast array of arms and armor, and ceramics, notably a large 17th-century Delft dinner service. The palace also hosts daily classical music concerts in its stunning Baroque Concert Hall, adding an evocative auditory dimension to the visit.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Lobkowicz Palace is steeped in fascinating narratives. One such tale involves Polyxena of Pernštejn-Lobkowicz, whose quick thinking and courage in 1618 provided sanctuary to the Catholic Imperial Ministers after they were thrown from the windows of the Royal Palace, an event known as the Second Defenestration of Prague. Her defiant act protected them from further harm, showcasing the family's historical resolve.

Another intriguing detail connects the palace to the revered Infant Jesus of Prague statue. Maria Maximiliana Manrique de Lara y Mendoza, Vratislav of Pernštejn's wife, brought the statue from Spain, and her daughter Polyxena later bequeathed it to the Church of Our Lady Victorious, where it remains a significant pilgrimage site. A replica is proudly displayed in the palace museum.

Music lovers will be captivated by the story of Joseph Franz Maximilian, the 7th Prince Lobkowicz, who was a devoted patron and close friend of Ludwig van Beethoven. Many of Beethoven's works, including his Third Symphony 'Eroica,' were dedicated to the Prince, and original scores with Beethoven's own notes are on display. Adding a contemporary touch, the museum's audio guide is often narrated by current members of the Lobkowicz family, including William Lobkowicz, offering personal insights and stories that bring the collections to life with a unique familial perspective.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting Lobkowicz Palace offers a distinctive and often more intimate experience compared to other parts of Prague Castle. The journey through its galleries allows travelers to delve into Bohemian and European history through the unique lens of one noble family, presented with a compelling narrative that prioritizes understanding over mere observation.

The free audio guide, narrated by generations of the Lobkowicz family, provides a deeply personal and engaging account of the artifacts and the family's enduring legacy, making the experience exceptionally rich. Beyond the historical and artistic treasures, the palace's panoramic balconies offer some of the most breathtaking views of Prague, making it a perfect spot for reflection or a quiet moment at the palace cafe. It is important to note that admission to Lobkowicz Palace requires a separate ticket, as it is not included in the general Prague Castle circuit tickets, ensuring a focused and dedicated exploration of this historical gem.