Knížecí dům House

Knížecí dům, located on the Great Square in Prachatice, is a historic townhouse with rich sgraffiti decoration. Originally gothic, it was remodeled and served as the seat of the supreme officials. Its complex history is reflected in the development and diversity of architectural styles.

The house has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages. The exact time of its first creation is unknown, but already in the 14th century there was a walled chamber part of the building. After the city fire in 1501, the house was rebuilt in the late Gothic style. In the mid-16th century, the house was renaissance-style, which involved creating an aetika and changing roofing. During the years 1625-1627, further modifications were made for Eggenberg officials, when new early Baroque polished plaster was applied. After the fire in 1832 there were classic changes in the facade and internal structures.

Architecturally, Knížecí dům is a fascinating example of the transformation from the Gothic object through the Renaissance to the Baroque and Classicist phases. Its sgraffiti decoration on the western facade, unveiled in 1889, is one of its most distinctive characteristics. This decoration depicts biblical and moralistic scenes, adding an important cultural dimension to the history of the house.

The first known owner was Jakub Menšík z Menštejna, who sold the house to the city in 1580. The town subsequently donated the house to Wilhelm of Rožmberk as a seat of the supreme officials. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the house was used by Eggenberg and Schwarzenberg as the administrative center of the rich estate.

The house has undergone some dramatic changes that reflect changes in society and architecture. After the fire in 1501, the house was rebuilt in the late Gothic style. In the middle of the 16th century, there was a renaissance reconstruction involving new atics and changes in roofing. During 1625-1627, further adjustments were made for Eggenberg officials, which included the application of new baroque plaster. After the fire in 1832 there were classic changes in the facade and internal structures.

Knížecí dům is not only an architectural monument but also a witness to many historical events. Its sgraffiti decoration depicts biblical and moralistic scenes that add a cultural dimension to its history. The house has been rebuilt several times, reflecting changes in society and architecture.

Today Knížecí dům is a protected cultural monument and is worth visiting for its historical significance and architectural beauty. Its sgraffiti decoration and complex history make it a unique monument, offering a view into the past of Prachatic and its architectural development. Visiting this house is a way to understand the rich history of this area and the appreciation of artistic and cultural values that they have preserved over the centuries.