Chlupáč Museum

Chlupáč Museum of Earth History Prague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Visitor Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Chlupáč Museum of Earth History, located within the Faculty of Science at Charles University in Prague, stands as a leading destination for anyone fascinated by geology, paleontology, and the natural history of the Czech Republic and Central Europe. Named after the acclaimed Czech geologist and paleontologist Professor Ivo Chlupáč, the museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore extensive collections of fossils, minerals, and geological specimens, with a particular emphasis on the renowned Barrandian region near Prague. Its roots trace back to early 19th-century academic collections, and today, the museum supports both public education and advanced research in the Earth sciences.

This detailed guide covers everything you need to know for a rewarding visit: opening hours, ticket prices, accessibility features, highlights of permanent and special exhibitions, travel tips, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a student, researcher, or traveler interested in Prague’s historical sites, the Chlupáč Museum is an essential stop for deepening your understanding of Earth’s geological heritage. For the most current details, visit the official Charles University Institute of Geology and Palaeontology website and the Faculty of Science, Charles University.

Origins and Historical Context
Evolution and Scientific Impact
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Location and Accessibility
Exhibitions and Visitor Experience
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
Special Events and Temporary Exhibitions
Photographic Opportunities and Interactive Elements
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Services and Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Summary and Final Tips
References and Links

Origins and Historical Context

The Chlupáč Museum of Earth History is managed by the Institute of Geology and Palaeontology at Charles University, an institution renowned for its contributions to Earth Sciences for nearly a century (Charles University Institute of Geology and Palaeontology). Its collections originated from the early 19th-century academic holdings developed at the National Museum in Prague, with major contributions from figures such as Count Kaspar Maria von Sternberg, Antonín Frič, and the French paleontologist Joachim Barrande. These collections, especially fossil specimens from the Paleozoic era and the Barrandian region, have established the museum as one of Europe’s most significant fossil archives.

Named in honor of Professor Ivo Chlupáč (1931–2002), a pivotal figure in Czech geology and paleontology, the museum continues to honor his legacy by supporting research, education, and public engagement.

Evolution and Scientific Impact

Today, the museum houses over five million specimens, making it one of the largest fossil collections in Europe. Its holdings span the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic eras, with a particular focus on the Czech and Moravian regions. The collection’s scientific value is underscored by its numerous type specimens, critical for taxonomic and evolutionary studies.

The museum is at the forefront of research, contributing to international collaborations and supporting scientific publications. It also plays a vital role in public outreach, education, and the preservation of geological heritage.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Regular Public Hours: Wednesdays, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
Special Events: Additional openings occur during events like Prague Museum Night and other scheduled programs.
Group Visits and Tours: Available by advance arrangement for educational groups and larger parties.
Admission Fees:
- Adults: 70 CZK
- Children (ages 6–15), students, seniors: 40 CZK
- Preschool children and disability card holders: Free

Tickets are available on-site. Group tours and educational visits may require advance booking and a nominal fee. For up-to-date information, check the official website.

Location and Accessibility

Address: Faculty of Science, Charles University, Albertov 6, 128 43 Praha 2, Czech Republic
Getting There: Easily accessible by public transport:
- Tram: “Albertov” stop (lines 7, 14, 18, 24)
- Metro: “Karlovo náměstí” (Line B) and “I.P. Pavlova” (Line C), both within a 10–15 minute walk
- Parking: Limited due to city center restrictions
Accessibility: Barrier-free access is available from Votočkova Street; elevators and accessible restrooms are provided. Contact the museum in advance for specific accessibility needs.

Find more details at the Charles University Faculty of Science website.

Exhibitions and Visitor Experience

Permanent Collections

Fossilized Trilobites: One of Central Europe’s most comprehensive collections, dating back over 500 million years.
Devonian and Silurian Fauna: Marine fossils from the Prague Basin, including corals, brachiopods, and crinoids.
Plant Fossils: Carboniferous ferns, horsetails, and other ancient flora.
Mineral Collection: Specimens from Czech and international locales.
Stratigraphic Displays: Wall-mounted columns and dioramas illustrating Prague’s geological history.
Type and Reference Specimens: Select holotypes and paratypes displayed to emphasize the museum’s scientific significance.

All exhibits feature bilingual (Czech and English) explanatory panels.

Interactive Elements

Hands-on displays for fossil identification
Microscopes for close examination of specimens
Digital reconstructions and touch screens
Tactile exhibits and Braille labels for visually impaired visitors

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Expert-led Tours: Available for schools, universities, and public groups by prior arrangement.
Workshops: Focus on fossil identification, sediment analysis, and geological mapping, led by faculty experts.
Lectures and Events: Regular programs during academic semesters and special events such as International Museum Day and Earth Science Week.
Languages: Tours and materials available in Czech and English.

Check Charles University Events for the latest offerings.

Special Events and Temporary Exhibitions

Prague Museum Night: Annual event (June 14th, 2025) with extended hours (7:00 PM–midnight), free admission, guided tours, workshops, and special exhibitions (Prague Museum Night).
Temporary Exhibitions: Themed displays like “Behind the Unknown Creatures of the Amazon Forests,” often in collaboration with other institutions.
Collaborations: Joint programs with the Hrdlička Museum of Man and the Mineralogical Museum.

Photographic Opportunities and Interactive Elements

Photography: Non-flash photography for personal use is permitted. Flash and tripods may be restricted.
Visuals: Iconic displays include an 8-meter dinosaur skeleton, trilobite fossils, and interactive stratigraphic models.
Virtual Tours: Explore online resources and previews on the museum’s website.

Nearby Attractions

National Museum (Natural Sciences)
Charles Bridge
Vyšehrad Fortress
Botanical Garden of Charles University All easily reachable by tram or on foot from the museum.

Visitor Services and Amenities

Information Desk: Multilingual staff provide maps, brochures, and assistance.
Restrooms: Accessible within the Faculty of Science building.
Cloakroom: For coats and small bags.
Gift Shop: Educational materials, postcards, and fossil replicas.
Wi-Fi: Free throughout the building.
Dining: No on-site café, but nearby bistros and student cafeterias are available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the museum’s regular opening hours?
A: Wednesdays, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (last admission 4:30 PM).

Q: How much does admission cost?
A: Adults 70 CZK; children (6–15), students, and seniors 40 CZK; preschool children and disability card holders enter free.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with barrier-free access and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I book guided tours?
A: Yes, advance booking is recommended for groups and educational visits.

Q: Are English-language tours available?
A: Yes, upon prior arrangement.

Q: When are special events held?
A: Major events include Prague Museum Night and temporary exhibitions. See the official website for updates.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the museum?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed for personal use.

Summary and Final Tips

The Chlupáč Museum of Earth History is a must-see for anyone interested in Prague’s geological and paleontological legacy. Its extensive collections, interactive exhibits, and expert-led educational programs provide a rich experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. To ensure a smooth visit: