Lesser Town Cemetery in Prague-Smíchov, near Košíře

Malostranský Hřbitov

Malostranský Hřbitov: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Prague Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Malostranský Hřbitov, situated in Prague’s Smíchov district, is a storied cemetery offering a window into the city’s rich past. Established in 1680 in response to a devastating plague, this site evolved from a plague burial ground into a cultural and historical landmark. Renowned for its funerary art and as the resting place of many notable Czech figures, Malostranský Hřbitov is not only a place of remembrance but also a living venue for cultural events and reflections on Prague’s transformation across centuries (cs.wikipedia.org; prague-now.com; hrbitovy.cz). This guide presents a comprehensive overview of the cemetery’s history, architecture, notable burials, visitor information, and practical tips to make the most of your visit.

Engraving of Malostranský Cemetery in Prague from 1833

Malostranský Hřbitov: Historical Overview
Development and Notable Burials
Artistic and Architectural Highlights
Restoration and Preservation
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Travel Tips
References

Malostranský Hřbitov: Historical Overview

Malostranský Hřbitov, despite its name referencing Prague’s Malá Strana (Lesser Town), is located in the Smíchov district, near Plzeňská Street and the Bertramka tram stop (cs.wikipedia.org). It was established in 1680 as a cemetery for plague victims, providing a critical public health solution during a time of crisis. Initially linked with the Church of St. Wenceslas, it was later associated with the Church of the Holy Trinity, constructed in the 19th century.

Following Emperor Joseph II’s 1784 reforms banning burials within city limits, Malostranský Hřbitov became the principal cemetery for the left bank of the Vltava, serving Malá Strana, Hradčany, and Smíchov (prague-now.com; prague.eu). The cemetery’s active use ended in 1884, but its historical and artistic importance has endured.

Development and Notable Burials

Over centuries, Malostranský Hřbitov expanded both in size and social significance. It became a prestigious final resting place for members of Prague’s intellectual, artistic, and civic communities, especially during the Czech National Revival in the 19th century.

Notable figures interred include:

Dr. Caspar Rojko (historian and writer)
František Vilém Tippmann (auxiliary bishop)
Marie Countess Comorovská d’Orawa-Liptowa (commissioned by Empress Maria Anna)
Monsignore Don Aloisio Bragato (confessor to Empress Maria Anna)
Tomáš Ulrich and Anna Ulrichová (Prague burghers)
Dr. Karel Hornstein (director of the Klementinum Observatory)
Anna Zedlitzová (lady-in-waiting to Empress Maria Anna)
Architects Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer (Baroque architects of St. Nicholas Church)
František X. Dušek and Josefa Dušková (musicians and friends of Mozart)
Jan Vitásek and Václav Tomášek (composers)
Ignác Cornova, Gustav Pfleger Moravský, Adolf Kosárek, Vincenc Morstadt, Antonín and Václav Mánes (artists, writers, educators)

A particularly poignant grave is that of Anna Degerová, a three-year-old girl whose grave, adorned with a sleeping angel, has become the focus of local legend and annual candle-lighting rituals (milujuprahu.cz).

Artistic and Architectural Highlights

Malostranský Hřbitov is celebrated for its funerary art, representing a spectrum of styles from Gothic and Baroque to Neoclassical and Romantic. The cemetery has been described as an “open-air gallery” thanks to the works of prominent sculptors and artists such as:

The Platzer Family (Baroque and Classicist sculpture)
Josef Malínský
František Xaver Lederer
Václav Prachner (notably, the restored stele “Mir eine Weile”)
František Xaver Linn
Emanuel and Josef Max (noted Czech sculptors)

The Church of the Holy Trinity, built between 1831 and 1837 in the Empire style, remains the architectural centerpiece of the cemetery. Throughout the grounds, visitors can find memorials featuring angelic figures, allegorical sculptures, and intricate ironwork that reflect changing religious and cultural sensibilities (hrbitovy.cz).

Restoration and Preservation

Following its closure in 1884, the cemetery suffered from neglect, vandalism, and urban development pressures. The loss of the Chapel of St. Roch and the relocation of some tombstones in the 20th century illustrate these threats. However, dedicated restoration efforts, especially since 2015–2016, have preserved the most valuable monuments and protected the cemetery as a national cultural monument (cs.wikipedia.org). Community events and the work of local preservation groups have ensured its ongoing care.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Admission

Opening Hours: Malostranský Hřbitov is open daily. Standard hours are 9:00–17:00 in winter and extend to 19:00 in summer. Always verify current times on the official cemetery website prior to your visit.
Admission: Entry is free. Donations to support restoration and maintenance are appreciated.

Location and Access

Address: At the intersection of Plzeňská and Vrchlického streets, Prague 5 (Smíchov), adjacent to the Church of the Holy Trinity.
Public Transport: The Bertramka tram stop, served by multiple lines, is directly opposite the main entrance. The site is a short walk from the Anděl metro station. Use the IDOS journey planner for route details.
Parking: Limited street parking; public transport is highly recommended.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Themed tours are occasionally offered, especially during cultural events such as All Souls’ Day and the May Festival. Tours are typically in Czech, with English options available on request (malostranskyhrbitov.cz).
Cultural Events: The cemetery hosts performances and exhibitions, such as “Tanec smrti” (Dance of Death) (divadlo.net), guided walks, and community festivals.

Accessibility and Facilities

Accessibility: Main paths are relatively flat, but side paths can be uneven and may present challenges for visitors with mobility impairments.
Facilities: No restrooms or cafés on-site; amenities are available in nearby Smíchov.

Etiquette and Tips

Respectful Conduct: Maintain silence, avoid disturbing graves, and observe cemetery etiquette (prague.org).
Photography: Permitted for personal use; professional equipment may require permission.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes and water, especially in warmer months.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and beautiful foliage (viewfromprague.com).

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring other points of interest in the area:

Villa Bertramka: Historic villa associated with Mozart (Captour-Paja).
Anděl District: Vibrant urban quarter with shops, cafés, and cultural venues.
Malá Strana: Picturesque neighborhood featuring Baroque architecture and the iconic St. Nicholas Church.
Divadlo Orfeus: Local theater, and unique cafés such as Geekárna Café Bar.

Accommodation options nearby include Vienna House by Wyndham Andel’s Prague and Orea Hotel Angelo Praha.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Malostranský Hřbitov?
A: The cemetery is generally open daily, 9:00–17:00 in winter and up to 19:00 in summer. Check the official website for seasonal updates.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, entry is free. Donations are welcome.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, especially during special events. English-language tours may be available on request.

Q: Is Malostranský Hřbitov wheelchair accessible?
A: The main paths are accessible, but some areas may be challenging due to uneven terrain.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Personal photography is permitted with respectful conduct. Use of professional equipment may require permission.

Conclusion and Travel Tips

Malostranský Hřbitov stands as a serene and evocative testament to Prague’s layered history and artistic legacy. Whether you are drawn by its tranquil atmosphere, remarkable funerary art, or the stories of the figures interred within its walls, the cemetery offers a compelling experience for cultural travelers and history enthusiasts alike. Plan your visit by consulting up-to-date opening hours and event schedules, and consider joining a guided tour for deeper insight. For a richer experience, combine your visit with nearby attractions in Smíchov and Malá Strana.

To stay informed about events and explore more hidden gems in Prague, download the Audiala app for audio tours and updates, and follow us on social media. Your journey into Prague’s unique heritage begins here.