hotel Národní dům Theatre building
The National House, also known as the Shooting House or for the local native speaker, is one of the key monuments of Karlovy Vary's golden age. It is located in the centre of Karlovy Vary at the address of T.G. Masaryk 1088 / 24 and was built in a neo-gothic style with elements of Neo-Renaissance and Art-Nouveau. Today's operation as the Grandhotel Ambassador National House reflects the rich history of this building, which originated in the years 1899-1900 for Karlovy Vary sharpshooters.
The creation of the National House is linked to the development of Karlovy Vary as a world spa centre at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. In 1897, the Privileged Township Shooter Choir Karlovy Vary won a plot in Zeyer Street, where, according to the design of the studio Fellner and Helmer, the Federal House of Karlovy Vary sharpshooters was built. Construction works started on 28 March 1899 and were carried out by the Karlovy Vary construction company EM Grimm under the supervision of Eduardo Oert, Director of the Municipal Building Office. The shooting house was completed in 1900 and the ceremonial opening took place on 23 February 1901.
The architecture of the National House is characteristic of the neo-gothic style with elements of the Neo-Renaissance and Art-Nouveau. The building has three floors plus an elevated ground floor, decorated with historical ornaments. The biggest attraction is the modern festive hall varieté with a capacity of 900 seats, where a unique glazed ceiling was installed from riveted steel construction made by Plzeň Škodovka. The interiors are richly stucco and the hall is decorated with a decorative element.
The ownership of the National House has undergone several changes. Originally belonged to the Privileged Township Shooter Choir Karlovy Vary, but in 1930 he transferred to the property of the city of Karlovy Vary and received a new name National House. During its history the building was modernized and expanded, for example in 1921 during the Zionist Congress or in 1937 during the overall modernization of interiors. In 1955, the fourth floor of the building burned down, which led to reconstruction.
The National House was the place of many key events and attractions. Here was the prestigious variety of Orpheum, which launched the programme on 7 April 1901 and during its existence presented hundreds of artists, dancers and singers. The hall was used for concerts, theatre performances and balls, but also for gatherings such as the NSDAP Congress in 1938. In the interior of the National House they shot famous scenes from the TV series Circus Humberto.
Today the National House is operated as a hotel and its historical importance is recognised as a cultural monument. The building is entered in the state list of real-estate cultural monuments from 3 May 1958 and is protected according to the register of ÚSKP number 29108 / 4-4144. Its rich history, architectural elements and important events that took place here make the National House a unique monument worth visiting. Exploring its interiors and recalling the history of Karlovy Vary is an experience that offers a deep view of the past of this exceptional city.
Historical milestones
- 1899
- Start of construction works
- 1901
- Festive opening and opening of operations
- 1930
- Transfer of the building to the property of the city Karlovy Vary
- 1958
- Entry into the state list of real cultural monuments
Architectural development
The building was built in a neo-Gothic style with neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau elements. In 1899, a unique glass ceiling was installed on the riveted steel structure from Pilsen Skoda. In 1921 there was renewal and enlargement, in 1937 there was overall modernization of interiors.
Historical events
1901: Opening and opening ceremony; 1938: NSDAP Congress in the Great Hall; 1955: Fourth floor fire.
Owners
Privileged urban shooting choir Karlovy Vary (until 1930), city Karlovy Vary (since 1930)
Points of interest
- The National House is one of the key monuments of Karlovy Vary's golden age. - It is located in the centre of Karlovy Vary at the address of T.G. Masaryk 1088 / 24 and was built in a neo-gothic style with elements of Neo-Renaissance and Art-Nouveau. - The shooting house was completed in 1900 and the ceremonial opening took place on 23 February 1901. - The biggest attraction is the modern festive hall varieté with a capacity of 900 seats, where a unique glazed ceiling was installed from riveted steel construction made by Plzeň Škodovka. - The building is entered in the state list of real cultural monuments since 3 May 1958 and is protected according to the register of the ÚSKP number 29108 / 4-4144.
Guide
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome to Karlovy Vary, one of the most famous spa cities in the world! You are standing right in front of a historical monument that was once the heart of Karlovy Vary's golden age. You have before you the National House, formerly known as the Shooting House, whose impressive facade will immediately welcome you with its elegance and historical depth. No wonder it's one of the key monuments in this area.
Let's dive into his history. It was created between 1899 and 1900 as a federal house for Karlovy Vary sharpshooters who were looking for a place to meet and feast. The architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer have managed to create a building that combines the neo-gothic style with elements of neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau. The ceremonial opening took place on 23 February 1901 and has since served as a hotel, restaurant and place for cultural events.
Look up at the facade and notice its architectural elegance. The National House is built in a style of neo-gothic, which is evident from its essentials. Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau elements add another layer of elegance and artistic expression to the building. Its location on the address T.G. Masaryk 1088 / 24 in the centre of Karlovy Vary makes it not only an architectural but also a cultural icon.
This place is also associated with many historical personalities. Here appeared famous artists such as Vlasta Burian, Udo Jürgens and Jaroslav Štercl who contributed to his rich cultural heritage. Each brought their own share into the atmosphere of this place.
Now note the interest that will impress every visitor: The National House was transferred in 1930 into the property of the city of Karlovy Vary and later, in 1958, it was registered as a state cultural monument. This shows not only its architectural but also its historical significance.
Have the National House inspired and continue to explore Karlovy Vary. There are many other attractions waiting to be discovered. I hope you like your journey along these historic streets. Goodbye and I wish Karlovy Vary to address you in the same way as us!
Tips for visitors
The best times for visiting are spring and autumn months, when the city centre has a pleasant atmosphere and the architecture of the building stands out in a mild light.
With us we recommend to take comfortable shoes for walking through the historical centre and camera to capture details.
For the best photos we recommend the morning hours when the light hits the facade directly on T. G. Masaryk Street, which will highlight the details of the building from 1900.
In the surrounding area you can walk the street of T. G. Masaryk and admire other buildings in the town monument zone in the centre of Karlovy Vary. It is ideal for families with children to take a short walk around the area, which will present the history of the city.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
Some buildings of this kind are open for guided tours, others serve another purpose or are privately owned. We have not verified whether and when this monument is open – please ask the operator.
What are the opening hours and admission?
We have not verified the opening hours or admission. Current information is published by the operator.
Where is the monument?
Location: Karlovy Vary. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 1000140461).
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Nearby
Budova se nachází v centru Karlových Varů v městské památkové zóně v ulici T. G. Masaryka.
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Trips and activities nearby
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Search tours and activities →Themed route
Thematic cruise route in the centre of Karlovy Vary
1. Hotel National House - Type: Historical hotel - Why is worth a visit: Hotel National House is one of the oldest and most famous buildings in Karlovy Vary. Its history dates back to the 19th century, when it became a popular place to stay and meet famous personalities. Today he is known for his elegant architecture and important role in the history of the village.
2. Karlovy Vary Town Hall - Type: Historical city offices - Why is it worth visiting: Located on T.G. Masaryk Street, near the National House. It is one of the oldest buildings in the village and its Gothic elements together with Baroque adaptations attract the attention of visitors. Town Hall is an important place for the history and culture of Karlovy Vary.
3. Karlovy Vary Theatre - Type: Theatre building - Why is it worth visiting: This theatre is one of the oldest cultural institutions in the village and has served as a centre of artistic life since its opening. Its architecture and history attract many spectators who want to record not only the performances but also the beauty of the building itself.
4. Karlovy Vary Library - Type: Historical Library - Why is it worth visiting: Located on the same street as the National House and is one of the oldest libraries in the village. It is known for its rich fund of old prints and manuscripts that attract historians and literature lovers.
5. Karlovy Vary cafe - Type: Historical restaurant - Why is worth a visit: This cafe is one of the oldest in Karlovy Vary and offers a view of the history of the village through its interiors and traditions. It is an ideal place to relax after exploring the surrounding sights, where you can enjoy traditional Czech tea or other local specialties.
This route will guide you through the centre of Karlovy Vary and bring a touching view of the history and culture of this famous village.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: During the spring season, hotel Národní dům appears in a new light, when the sun's rays illuminate its historic facades and gardens begin to bloom. The atmosphere is full of hope and recovery, giving visitors a feeling of complete change after the cold winter. It is recommended to visit in the forecast hours when sunlight is the most beautiful and crowds are usually smaller. A good idea is to wear clothes suitable for mild weather - a langoška with a warm shirt or sweater, because morning and evening can become colder. Beautiful green nature around is an ideal background for relaxing or short walks around the park.
Summer: During the summer period hotel Národní dům takes on life, when the city of Karlovy Vary becomes the center of leisure and rest. The sunny days bring long evenings full of light, which is ideal for walking around the square or entertainment in the local park. It is recommended to visit at dawn or late afternoon when the crowds are smaller and the temperature is more pleasant. It is advisable to bring light clothes to prevent overheating, such as a tie or sweater, along with protective sunglasses and a hat. Nature around offers a beautiful view of flowering gardens and forests that are in full power.
Autumn: In autumn, hotel Národní dům is transformed into a colour number of shades, when tree leaves acquire gold and red colors. The atmosphere is mild and calm, which brings a sense of relief after summer happiness. It is advisable to visit in the morning when the sun is still bright enough to illuminate historical architectural elements. It is recommended to wear a warm shirt or sweater and a langochek because the noon temperatures are often pleasant, but in the morning and evening you can meet with colder conditions. The beautiful sunset creates a romantic light for walking on urban streets.
Winter: In winter, hotel Národní dům receives a magical atmosphere where it is lit at night and trees are without leaves. Freezing weather brings peace and relief from everyday life, while the city offers various cultural events in warm areas. It is advisable to visit in the morning or evening when the lighting is the most beautiful and the crowds are smaller. It is recommended to wear warm clothes - fur, scarf and shoes with thermal soles to ensure comfort in cold weather. Local parks offer beautiful views of snowy landscapes that are ideal for relaxing and watching the moon.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
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Sources and literature
Photos: NickK / CC BY-SA 3.0 — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
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