National Library of the Czech Republic

Introduction

The National Library of the Czech Republic, located in the historic Klementinum complex in Prague’s Old Town, stands as a symbol of Czech intellectual, cultural, and architectural heritage. Tracing its beginnings back to medieval Europe and the Jesuit educational tradition, the library today is a premier destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, scholars, and curious travelers. This detailed guide provides everything you need to plan your visit, including information on opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, guided tours, collections, events, and nearby attractions. Whether visiting in person or exploring virtually, discover the treasures and stories that make the National Library a cornerstone of Czech culture (National Library of the Czech Republic, Prague City Tourism, Discover Walks).

Medieval Beginnings

The library’s origins date back to the 13th century, with the establishment of the Studium generale within a Dominican monastery in Prague’s Old Town. This institution, which later merged with Charles University in the 14th century, laid the foundation for a rich tradition of scholarship and the preservation of theological, philosophical, and scientific texts (Wikipedia).

Jesuit Influence and the Klementinum

In 1556, the Jesuits arrived in Prague, transforming the former Dominican monastery into the Klementinum—named after the Church of St. Clement. Over nearly two centuries, the Jesuits expanded the complex, making it one of Prague’s largest architectural ensembles after Prague Castle. The library quickly became a hub for learning, amassing rare manuscripts, incunabula, and scientific instruments, including works by Kepler, Brahe, and Copernicus (Prague City Tourism, prague.org).

Enlightenment and Public Access

After the suppression of the Jesuit Order in 1773, the Klementinum was converted into a state institution. In 1777, Empress Maria Theresa opened the library to the public as the Imperial-Royal Public and University Library, embracing Enlightenment ideals of accessible knowledge (Google Arts & Culture). The library became the first in the Habsburg Monarchy to receive legal deposit copies from Bohemian printers, a system still in place today.

Modern Developments

The 19th and 20th centuries saw continued expansion and modernization. Following Czechoslovakia’s independence, the library’s status evolved, and the Slavonic Library was established in 1924. Despite challenges during World War II and the Communist era, the library remained open and merged with other Prague libraries in 1958, becoming a national bibliographic hub (en.nkp.cz). Since 1990, as the National Library of the Czech Republic, it has pioneered digitization, earning the UNESCO Jikji Prize in 2005 for its achievements.

Architectural and Cultural Highlights

Baroque Library Hall

Completed in 1722, the Baroque Library Hall is a masterpiece of opulent design. Its frescoed ceilings by Jan Hiebl, gilded moldings, and rich stucco work create one of the world’s most beautiful library spaces, housing over 27,000 rare volumes and a unique collection of globes and scientific instruments (thirdeyetraveller.com).

Astronomical Tower

Rising 68 meters above Prague, the Astronomical Tower offers panoramic city views. Historically, it served as a center for astronomical and meteorological research, housing the oldest continuous weather station in the Czech lands.

Other Notable Spaces

• Chapel of Mirrors: Known for its ornate mirrored decor and acoustics, this space hosts classical concerts and special events.
• Meridian Hall: Used historically to determine noon, featuring original scientific installations.
• Courtyards: Display the country’s largest collection of sundials and a historic Baroque fountain.

Major Collections

Manuscripts and Incunabula

The library’s manuscript collection, numbering around 14,000, includes medieval Latin, Czech, and German texts, as well as Greek, Oriental, and papyrus manuscripts. The incunabula collection—books printed before 1501—is among the region’s largest (en.nkp.cz, cerl.org).

Early Printed Books and Rare Volumes

With roughly 160,000 volumes from 1501–1800, the library preserves Czech and foreign-language works central to the nation’s literary heritage. Noteworthy items include the mysterious Voynich Manuscript, the Codex Gigas (“Devil’s Bible”), and the Liber Sapientiae grimoire (thirdeyetraveller.com).

Maps, Globes, and Scientific Instruments

The Baroque Library Hall’s globes and instruments from the 17th and 18th centuries highlight the Jesuits’ legacy of scientific inquiry. The map collection features rare depictions of the world and Bohemia’s place within it (discoverwalks.com).

The Slavonic Library

This branch specializes in Slavic studies, with collections spanning literature, periodicals, and archival materials from across the Slavic world.

Visiting the Library: Practical Information

Location and Access

The library is located at Mariánské náměstí 190/5, 110 00 Prague 1, within the Klementinum complex. Access via public transport includes tram lines 17 and 18 (Staroměstská stop) and metro line A (Staroměstská station) (Klementinum Area – National Library). The courtyards are open to the public during daylight hours and feature notable architectural elements.

Visiting Hours

• Main Hall: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Reading Room: Open until 10:00 PM
• Guided Tours: Operate daily; time slots and languages vary.
• Baroque Library Hall and Astronomical Tower:
  • April–October: Daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • November–March: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Closed on Mondays and select public holidays

Check the official website for updates and special closures.

Tickets and Booking

• Courtyards: Free entry
• Guided Tours (Baroque Library Hall, Astronomical Tower, Chapel of Mirrors):
  • Adults: 230–250 CZK
  • Students/Seniors: 150–210 CZK
  • Children under 6: Free
• Concerts and Special Events: 230–810 CZK, depending on the event
• Booking: Strongly recommended online in advance for tours and concerts (Colosseum Ticket)

Guided Tours

Tours (approx. 45–50 minutes) are offered in multiple languages and provide exclusive access to areas not open to the general public. Booking ahead is essential, especially during busy periods.

Accessibility

While the courtyards and some public areas are accessible, architectural constraints mean that parts of the complex, such as the Astronomical Tower, are not suitable for wheelchair users. Contact the library in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs.

Visitor Etiquette and Photography

• Maintain silence in reading rooms and during tours.
• Photography is generally not permitted inside the Baroque Library Hall; limited photography may be allowed in other areas with permission.
• Modest attire is recommended.

Nearby Attractions

The Klementinum’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby landmarks such as Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and the Astronomical Clock, all within walking distance.

Events and Cultural Activities

Exhibitions

The library hosts regular and special exhibitions, often free to enter, in the Main Hall. Current highlights include "Changes of the Klementinum in Photographs" (August 2024 – January 2025), with past displays featuring treasures like the Vyšehrad Codex (National Library Exhibitions page).

Concerts and Festivals

Classical music concerts in the Mirror Chapel and Church of St. Salvator are a staple, with the "Classic Spectacular" series running July through November 2025 (Colosseum Ticket). The library also participates in citywide festivals such as Open House Prague and Museum Night (Fun in Prague).

Workshops and Educational Programs

Activities include bookbinding, calligraphy, and reading clubs, with programs for children and families such as puppet shows and storytelling (Expats.cz).

Digital and Multimedia Experiences

Explore digitized collections and virtual tours through the library’s website and Google Arts & Culture (discoverwalks.com). Check the exhibitions calendar for digital art and multimedia events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the National Library’s opening hours?
A: Main Hall: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Reading Room: open until 10:00 PM. Guided tours and Baroque Library Hall hours vary—check the official website.

Q: How can I get tickets for tours and concerts?
A: Book online via the library’s website or Colosseum Ticket. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Is the Klementinum accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Some areas are accessible; however, parts of the historic complex (e.g., the Astronomical Tower) are not. Contact the library for details.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is not permitted inside the Baroque Library Hall; limited photography may be allowed elsewhere with guide’s permission.

Q: Are tours available in English?
A: Yes, tours are offered in multiple languages. Confirm the language when booking.

Q: Are there family-friendly activities?
A: Yes, including children’s programs, workshops, and storytelling sessions.