Kinský Palace
Gallery and Palace in Prague
Nestled on the eastern side of Old Town Square, Kinský Palace (Palác Kinských) is one of Prague’s most elegant Rococo buildings. Commissioned in the mid-18th century by the aristocratic Golz family, the palace later passed to the noble Kinský family, whose name it still bears today. Its ornate façade, with its pastel pink-and-white stucco and refined sculptural decorations, stands in striking contrast to the medieval and Gothic buildings around it, offering a visual journey into the tastes of Enlightenment-era nobility.
Over the centuries, the palace has played host to numerous notable figures and historical events. Perhaps most famously, Franz Kafka attended the German Grammar School housed in the palace from 1893 to 1901. The building’s location and prestige also made it a desirable venue for various political gatherings and declarations. In 1948, Klement Gottwald, leader of the Communist Party, delivered a speech from its balcony—marking the beginning of Czechoslovakia’s four-decade-long communist era.
Today, Kinský Palace is part of the National Gallery Prague and hosts a rotating series of exhibitions showcasing Czech and international art. The gallery’s curation reflects both modern and historical themes, providing visitors with a dynamic cultural experience in one of Prague’s most historic settings. The interiors have been carefully preserved and adapted, offering a unique blend of stately architecture and contemporary display.
A visit to Kinský Palace enriches any walking tour of the Old Town. Whether you step inside to view an exhibition or simply admire its exterior from the bustling square, the palace encapsulates the complexity of Prague’s past: aristocratic opulence, literary legacy, political upheaval, and cultural renewal—all within a single, beautifully adorned building.
The Kinský Palace appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Kinský Palace
Tue–Sun: 10.00–18.00
Adults 300 CZK
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