Archbishop’s Palace, Prague
Palace in Prague
Perched prominently on Hradčanské Square just steps from Prague Castle, the Archbishop’s Palace is a striking vision in creamy vanilla hues, distinguished by its elegant Rococo façade and grand arched windows. Originally purchased in the 1560s by Archbishop Antonín Brus of Mohelnice, the palace has since served as the seat of the Archdiocese of Prague and the principal residence of its archbishops. The building’s ornate exterior hints at the splendor within—lavish ceremonial rooms adorned with carved wooden furnishings, ornate stucco detailing, delicate porcelain, and shimmering glassware, all echoing the opulence of centuries past.
The palace’s interiors are rarely open to the public, making any opportunity to enter a unique and coveted experience. Among its most treasured spaces is the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist, which dates back to the 16th century and reflects the spiritual and artistic gravitas of the period. Visitors lucky enough to gain entry, particularly during the rare open day on Maundy Thursday (the day before Good Friday), are treated to a privileged view of the Archbishop’s private chapel and its haunting centerpiece—a dramatic painting of the Crucifixion.
This artwork carries a macabre legend. Commissioned by an archbishop seeking an unflinching portrayal of suffering, the young Italian artist tasked with the painting chose a beggar as his model. Unsatisfied with the beggar’s expression, he bound the man to a cross and, in a chilling act of cruelty, stabbed him through the heart to capture his moment of agony. The artist then finished the painting using the dying man’s face as reference, but was later consumed by guilt and reportedly took his own life. The resulting canvas is said to reflect not just religious suffering, but also the torment of its creator.
Is the Archbishop’s Palace Worth Visiting?
Without a doubt—if you’re fortunate enough to catch it open. While its doors are rarely unlocked for public viewings, the palace is an architectural treasure whose stories and legends add a layer of intrigue to the already majestic Castle District. Even from the outside, the Archbishop’s Palace adds grace and gravitas to Hradčanské Square, offering a quiet reminder of the enduring power of faith, art, and human complexity within the spiritual heart of Prague.
The Archbishop’s Palace, Prague appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Archbishop’s Palace, Prague
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Palace in Prague
