Schirdingovský palác Palace
Schirdingovský palác, also called the Kaňková house, stands on Prague's New Town in a corner building between National Class and Mikulandska Street. It is a classical building protected as a real-estate cultural monument, which in our days serves as the seat of the Czech Bar Association.
The palace's roots go deep into the Middle Ages. The first stone building was created in the present place at the end of the 14th century - it served as a warehouse for malting and brewery. From that time, cellars and remnants of perimeter walls have been preserved to this day, showing the continuity of the settlement of this Prague parcel.
In the New Testament, the house underwent a major transformation. Architect Jan Ferdinand Hübner started reconstruction after 1731 and finished construction before 1752. In the same year 1752 the house was purchased by the Imperial Council Jan Antonín ze Schirdingu, according to which the building bears its current name. Schirdinsky had the classicist modifications made her into the building we see today.
In 1838 the owner of the palace became a renowned Prague lawyer Jan Nepomuk Kaňka. He had great ambitions for the building - he dedicated his valuable collection of paintings to the Paintings of the Society of Patriot Friends of Arts and the Palace itself bequeathed a foundation for poor Prague lawyers. Kanyk's contribution linked the assets to the charity mission and formed the long-term fate of the construction.
The appearance of the palace changed even in the 20th century. In 1953, in the ground floor direction towards the National Class, there was a peeling - a commercial passage that gave the palace a new dimension as public buildings. In the 1990s, a new workplace in deconstructivistic style was built in the palace yard, according to the designs of architects Jiří Šrtecký and Martin Krupauer.
The palace also carries the memory of recent history. In 1990, a commemorative plaque from Miroslav Krátý and Otakar was placed in the newly broken meadow on National Class dedicated to events on 17 November 1989. In November 2016, the passage was closed and the memorial plate was moved to the facade of the house where it remains today.
Schirdingovský palác is therefore more than just a historic building - it is a living chronology of the development of Prague from the Middle Ages to the Enlightenment to the modern period and at the same time a symbol of the public mission that it is fulfilling today.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- End of the 14th Century
- The creation of medieval stone building - cellars and remnants of brewery
- 1731
- The beginning of the reconstruction into a classical palace according to the Jan Ferdinand Hübner project
- 1752
- Completion of classical reconstruction, purchase of the palace by Jan Antonín from Schirding
- 1838
- The Palace was purchased by Jan Nepomuk Kaňka, who referred it to the Bar Chamber
- 1992-1994
- Deconstructive office building
Architectural development
The original medieval building from the end of the 14th century was composed of cellars and perimeter walls of the brewery. In 1731- 1752 a classical L-shape building was built in its place according to the Jan Ferdinand Hübner project. In the 19th century there were minor modifications, in the 20th century there was built a passage with a commemorative plate from 1989. In the 1990s, a modern office building in a deconstructive style was built in the yard.
Historical events
- End of the 14th Century
- Medieval stone building - cellars and brewery residues
- 1731-1752
- Classicist reconstruction according to the Jan Ferdinand Hübner project
- 17 November 1989
- Memory board reminiscent of events at the National Class
- 1992-1994
- Deconstructive office building built in the complex
Owners
- before 1752
- 1752
- 1838
Points of interest
- The palace is also known as the Kanyk house, according to the lawyer Jan Nepomuk Kanyk who owned it and referred it to the support of poor Prague lawyers.
- The ground floor of the palace was built in 1953 a commercial passage section towards the National Class.
- On the facade of the house is a commemorative plaque commemorating the events of November 17, 1989, originally located in the passage, later moved.
- The original medieval building from the end of the 14th century preserved the cellars and remnants of the perimeter walls.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
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This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Audio guide for Schirdingovský palác
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Welcome, dear visitors! You are standing in front of one of the most interesting and oldest palaces in Prague's New Town. His beauty and history await you. Look up - on the front of the palace, notice the classical architecture with straight lines and symmetrical windows. On the ground floor, the door will open not only the historic house, but also the modern business passage that connects the palace with the National Class.
Let's move on to the past. The foundations here date back to the end of the 14th century, when medieval cellars and brewery remains stood there. The palace was gradually rebuilt, and its present form was mainly created in the 18th century. The beginning of the reconstruction to classical style began in 1731 by architect Jan Ferdinand Hübner. His work was completed in 1752 when the palace bought Jan Antonín ze Schirdingu. This important man left his mark, but his name does not appear directly on the facade in the palace.
Now pay attention to the details the palace brings you. On the facade you can see how the pilasters and the mantelpiece are alternating, which provide an elegant and bold line. On the ground floor, where there is a commercial passage, there is a possibility to see the original entrance, which was modified in the 20th century. The palace was long established by prominent personalities - from the Imperial Council to the lawyer Jan Nepomuk Kaňka, who purchased the palace in 1838 and left the bar. Thanks to this, the palace is also known as the Kanyk house, which is an interesting reminder of the history of the lawyer and his contribution to the preservation of this historic house.
The interesting thing is that in 1992 and 1994 modern office buildings were built in the palace courtyard. This does not mean, however, that the original building has disappeared - on the contrary, it has preserved its historical nature and is currently a monument to the past. On the ground floor there is also a commemorative plate, which reminds of some of the events from the past that took place here.
Continue your search and examine what the palace hides behind the windows. Its history is full of interesting stories - from medieval cellars to modern business passages. The Palace offers you not only the beauty of architecture, but also a deep connection to the history of Prague. Don't forget to look around - the palace is on the corner of National Class and Mikuland Street, allowing you to link its history to the life of Prague today.
We thank you for your attention and wish your stay here to be full of experiences and discoveries. If you still have questions or want to know more about the history of this palace, do not hesitate to ask for further information. May your walk around New Town become an unforgettable experience for you!
Tips for visitors
{'paragraph': 'The best time to visit the Schirding Palace is in the morning when there are fewer visitors and you can enjoy the tour in peace. If you prefer less cold weather, the ideal is a visit in autumn or winter, when the outdoor is more pleasant and the light in the interior is pleasant. The palace is also suitable for visiting in the summer months, but it can be quite hot inside at noon, so wear light clothes.'}
{'paragraph': 'Transport to the palace is possible by car and public transport. If you arrive by car, find a parking lot near the National Class where there are plenty of places. If you prefer public transport, stops are well available around the palace. The current connection and departure times can be found in the transport search engine. The palace is located in the centre of Prague, so even walking from nearby places is not difficult.'}
{'paragraph': 'When visiting the Schirding Palace, wear comfortable shoes because the tour may include corridors and stairs. I also recommend you take a small laptop or mobile phone to take notes or photos from the interior. If you are planning to take pictures, do not forget batteries and memory cards because some rooms may be in darker colours and require better lighting.'}
{'paragraph': 'Photography inside the palace is permitted, but it is recommended to search places with plenty of natural light, such as window holes or spaces with large windows. The best places for photos are often entrance halls or representative halls where the light is pleasant and compositions are suitable. Always follow the instructions of the staff, which may have specific rules for photography.'}
{'paragraph': 'There are several interesting places around the palace that are worth visiting during your trip. National class offers many shops, cafes and historic buildings that are ideal for a short break. Wenceslas Square, just a few minutes' walk away, is one of the most important places in Prague where you can admire architecture, visit monuments or relax in one of many cafés. For families with children there is also a possibility to visit the nearby playground or to see statues and fountains. '}
{'paragraph': 'For families with children, the visit to the Schirding Palace is particularly interesting because of its historic atmosphere and the possibility of exploring history. Children can see the old cellars and remains of medieval buildings that are part of the palace. It is recommended to take some activity with you, such as painting or writing, so that children can stay involved during the tour. In the vicinity of the palace it is also possible to visit Wenceslas Square, where children can observe statues and fountains, or relax in a small area.'}
Frequently asked questions
Is Schirdingovský palác open to the public?
Yes, Schirdingovský palác is open to the public. The tour is possible only within organized groups or individual visits after previous booking.
How do I get to the place by car / public transport?
The nearest parking is on National Street, about 5 minutes' walk from the palace. The public transport stop 'National class' is also nearby.
How much is the entrance fee and is it paid on the spot?
Payment is made at the entrance in memory.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, Schirdingovský palác is suitable for visits with children and seniors. The tour is adapted to the needs of all ages.
How long does the tour take?
The tour of the Schirding Palace takes about 45 minutes.
What are the opening times and booking is required?
The Schirdingovský palác is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10: 00 to 18: 00, Saturday and Sunday from 12: 00 to 20: 00. Reservation is not necessary, but we recommend it for group visits.
What's interesting in the immediate vicinity?
In the immediate vicinity of the Schirding Palace, Nové Město is located with its historic neighborhood, where other sights like the Old Town Hall or the Crossroads Monastery can be visited.
For kids
Imagine going back to the past, until Praha was a small town with narrow streets and houses with high roofs. And it was in one of these houses, on the corners of the National Class and the Mikuland, that Schirdingovský palác stood.
How did it look here? Who lived here? What happened here? The palace was home to a rich Schirding family. They were people who had a lot of money and respected art. There were beautiful halls in the palace where there were great entertainment and dances. To be closer to the story, imagine you're the young Schirding who lived in this house.
Businesses nearby
Events nearby
Zdroj akcí: otevřená data měst a obcí ČR (Národní katalog otevřených dat) a kalendář akcí Národního památkového ústavu.
Nearby
- Main business street in Prague-New Town, connecting Old Town Square with Wenceslas Square, with many historical and cultural objects.
- One of the most important squares in Prague, about 300 metres from the palace, with historical buildings and sculptures.
- About 500 metres away, an important museum of Czech history and culture.
- Basic historical monument of Prague, about 2 km from the palace.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
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Search tours and activities →Themed route
Thematic cruise route to Schirding Palace
1.Schirdingovský palác * Baroque palace from the 18th century * - A unique example of Prague's Baroque style with richly decorated interiors. It is worth visiting for its historical value and architectural detail that reflects the rise of the Schirding family.
2. National class * Main business street * - Walking along this historic route connects Schirdingovský palác with Wenceslas Square. The street offers views of the sights and the possibility of buying souvenirs or relaxation in cafés.
3. Wenceslas Square * Main Square of Prague * - Here is a famous statue of the Svatovsky Cross and historical buildings such as the National Theatre. The visit is worth the atmosphere and the opportunity to taste coffee in classic cafés.
4. National Museum * Scientific exhibition facilities * - Approximately 500 metres from the palace offers rich collections of natural sciences, history and art. Ideal for complementing cultural experience from the surroundings.
The route is logically designed to gradually explore the most important places around Schirding Palace with minimal crossings.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring Spring at Schirding Palace offers a unique combination of sunny lighting and awakening nature. The sun shines at an angle that illuminates the palace's facade with golden light, while the first spring flowers - apple trees, cherries and spring grass - bloom in the park. The atmosphere is light, almost summer, but still without the summer crowd. It is suitable to dress in warm colors that contrasts with historical stone details of the palace. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, when there are fewer tourists and you can see the palace in peace. In the park you can see the first bees on the flowers and hear the singing of birds, which gives the place a magical mood.
Summer In the summer months Schirdingovský palác shines in full sun, its stone details are shaded only briefly for the evening. The surrounding area is green, parks and gardens are full of life - the leaves, roses bloom and visitors meet on the terraces. The atmosphere is alive, but also warm and wet, especially in the noon hours. Light clothes, hat or sunglasses are recommended and plenty of water. The best time to visit is in the morning, when the palace is still half-shaded and the crowds are not as big. In the evening, after six o'clock, the attendance decreases and you can see the palace in peace, while the golden glare of the sunset looms over Prague.
Autumn Autumn brings a quiet, golden light to the Schirding Palace that illuminates its stone elements as if they were washed by the rays of the sun. The leaves on the trees are colored yellow, orange and red, while the first dry branches and mild cold appear in the park. The atmosphere is quiet, almost meditative, with quiet rustling of deciduous leaves. It is suitable to dress in warm colors - brown, gold or dark green - which match the autumn palette. The best time to visit is in the morning when there is still light out and the crowds are not as big. In the evening, the palace appears to be surrounded by a veil of fog, which gives the visit a mysterious atmosphere.
Winter Winter Schirdingovský palác is surrounded by white carpet snow, its stone details seem to be even more emphasized as if they were carved into ice. The sun shines at a low angle, creating long shadows and golden sparks on the facade. The atmosphere is quiet, almost sacred, with quiet snow rustling and freezing breath. Hot clothes - leather jackets, hats and gloves - that protect against cold are suitable. The best time to visit is in the morning when there is still light out and the crowds are minimal. In the evening, the palace appears to be surrounded by a shining light, creating a magical atmosphere. In advent time, the palace appears to be lit by Christmas lights, which gives the place even more magic.
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.
Atmosphere of the place
This atmospheric visualisation of the place and period was generated by artificial intelligence. It is not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Fotografie: VitVit / 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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