Belvedere (Royal Summer Palace), Prague
Palace in Prague
Tucked away at the eastern edge of the Royal Garden, just north of Prague Castle, the Royal Summer Palace—known as the Belvedere—is a stunning expression of Renaissance architecture and romantic vision. Commissioned in the 1530s by Emperor Ferdinand I as a gift for his beloved wife, Queen Anne, the palace is considered one of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance design found north of the Alps. Designed by Italian architects and built by Bohemian craftsmen, its elegant copper roof, shaped like the keel of an inverted boat, gracefully caps a series of arcaded columns that circle the ground floor. Between the 36 columns are 114 exquisitely carved reliefs depicting scenes of royal hunts, battles, mythological tales, and even a touching image of Ferdinand offering a flower to Queen Anne—an architectural love letter in stone.
Though originally intended as a leisure retreat and observatory, the Belvedere’s remote and peaceful setting later made it a perfect site for contemplation and artistic pursuits. The upper floor features a long frescoed wall that chronicles key episodes in Czech history, offering a visual journey through the nation’s past. The ground floor, once the site of royal drawing rooms and lavish dances, now hosts rotating exhibitions focusing on the fine and decorative arts. The palace’s serene, almost meditative atmosphere makes it an ideal backdrop for viewing contemporary interpretations of art within this historic framework.
Just outside, the symmetrical charm of the adjacent ‘giardinetto’—a small Renaissance garden—completes the royal vision of elegance and order. Neatly trimmed hedges and gravel paths surround a central marvel: the Singing Fountain. This bronze and stone fountain, designed by Italian artists and cast in Prague in 1568, creates a soft melodic sound as water dances across its metal surface. The unique acoustics, caused by the falling water striking the fluted basin, are best appreciated close up—kneel beside the fountain to let its gentle song envelop you in a moment of stillness and wonder.
Why You Should Visit:
The Belvedere offers a quieter, more intimate counterpoint to the grandeur of Prague Castle. With its refined architectural details, tranquil gardens, and rich cultural programming, it’s a hidden gem that blends history, romance, and artistry. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a lover of Renaissance elegance, or simply in search of a peaceful escape, the Royal Summer Palace invites you to slow down and step into another era.
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Visiting Belvedere (Royal Summer Palace), Prague
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