Schwarzenberg Palace
Palace in Prague
Schwarzenberg Palace, located on Hradčanské Square just across from Prague Castle, is one of the city’s most visually captivating Renaissance landmarks. Built in the 16th century, it is most famous for its sgraffito façade—an extraordinary trompe-l’œil technique that gives the illusion of three-dimensional pyramidal stones. This elaborate pattern, etched directly onto the stucco, makes the palace appear sculpted rather than painted, setting it apart even in a city known for architectural flair. Step inside, and you’re greeted by restored ceilings adorned with vivid canvas paintings that depict mythological scenes like the Judgment of Paris and the Conquest of Troy, a tribute to the opulence of the noble Schwarzenberg family who once resided here.
Following a meticulous five-year restoration completed in 2008, the palace now serves as a key site of the National Gallery Prague. The ground floor features a rich collection of religious sculptures and altarpieces, offering insight into the spiritual artistry of the Renaissance and early Baroque periods. Upstairs, the first floor displays an impressive array of works by European masters, including Rubens, Bruegel, El Greco, and Czech painters such as Petr Brandl. The curated selections provide a sweeping view of artistic evolution across centuries, framed by interiors that are as much a part of the exhibition as the artwork itself.
The highlight for many visitors is the palace’s upper floor, home to an extraordinary collection of historical arms and armor. The finely crafted swords, muskets, shields, and knightly gear are displayed in a way that evokes the chivalric grandeur of the Baroque period. Despite the historical weight of the collection, the spacious and bright exhibition rooms maintain a modern sense of flow and clarity. Throughout the building, the stunning ceiling frescoes are almost distractions from the exhibits, with their scale, color, and dramatic storytelling stealing glances in every room.
Why You Should Visit
Schwarzenberg Palace is a must for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and architecture admirers alike. Its combination of striking Renaissance design and world-class collections makes it one of Prague’s cultural highlights. The palace offers a quieter, more contemplative experience than some of the city’s busier landmarks, all within a stone’s throw of Prague Castle.
The Schwarzenberg Palace appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Schwarzenberg Palace
Museum Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Closed Mondays.
Adults 300 CZK
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