Palác Straků Z Nedabylic

Palác Straků z Nedabylic Prague Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Palác Straků z Nedabylic, also known as the Straka Academy or the House at the Seven Devils (Dům U sedmi čertů), is a distinguished historical and architectural landmark set in Prague’s Malá Strana district. Blending Renaissance origins with Baroque grandeur and Neo-Baroque flourishes, the palace charts a fascinating journey from noble residence to educational and governmental hub. Its story is enriched by striking artworks, intriguing legends, and lasting contributions to Czech culture and governance. This comprehensive guide details Palác Straků z Nedabylic’s history, architectural highlights, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and practical tips for making the most of your visit (cs.wikipedia; neznamapraha.cz; Prague Tourist Information).

Introduction
Historical Evolution
Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Visiting Palác Straků z Nedabylic
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Tips
Conclusion
References

Historical Evolution

Renaissance Foundations

The palace traces its roots to the late 16th and early 17th centuries, when merchant Kryštof Discatiato established a Renaissance residence in Malá Strana. This original structure featured arcaded façades and incorporated elements of Prague’s medieval fortifications. Notably, the courtyard once hosted the foundry and workshop of Adrian de Vries, a renowned Dutch sculptor active in Emperor Rudolf II’s court (cs.wikipedia; neznamapraha.cz).

Baroque Transformation and Noble Ownership

In 1664, the property was acquired by Ferdinand Arnošt Hýzrle z Chodů, who initiated a major Baroque reconstruction—possibly under architect Jean Baptiste Mathey. The palace’s stately two-story main building faces Maltézské náměstí, with wings enclosing a courtyard accessible from Lázeňská Street. The refined Baroque façade, featuring a ceremonial piano nobile on the second floor, remains a hallmark of the building (atlasceska.cz).

Count Jan Petr Straka z Nedabylic later became the most notable owner, lending his name to the palace and establishing a significant art collection. The Straka family’s philanthropic legacy would eventually lead to the creation of the Straka Academy, now the seat of the Czech government (neznamapraha.cz).

The Straka Family and Philanthropy

Originating from eastern Bohemia, the Strakové z Nedabylic family rose to prominence from the 14th century onward. Jan Petr Straka’s 1710 will stipulated that, should the family line end, their wealth would fund an academy for impoverished noble youth—a vision realized in 1814 with the establishment of the Straka Foundation. The family’s coat of arms, a silver rooster on a blue shield, adorns the palace (cs.wikipedia.org; czwiki.cz).

Later Ownership and Institutional Role

After passing through several noble and burgher hands in the 19th century, the palace was eventually acquired by the Sisters of Charity and then the Prague city magistrate. Demolition plans were abandoned, and in 1912, the building was donated to the Deyl Institute for the Blind (now the Jan Deyl Conservatory and Secondary School for the Visually Impaired), continuing its tradition of social and educational service (cs.wikipedia).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Palác Straků z Nedabylic showcases layers of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neo-Baroque design:

Façade and Layout: The two-story main building features symmetrical Neo-Baroque ornamentation, a central pediment, and allegorical statues symbolizing virtues like wisdom and charity. The roofline includes a mansard roof with dormer windows and decorative finials (World History Journal).
Courtyard: The palace’s courtyard is enclosed by single-story and ground-floor wings. Remnants of a medieval tower, once part of the Knights Hospitaller fortifications, are still visible.
Interiors: Grand halls, ceremonial staircases, and salons are adorned with ceiling frescoes by Jan Rudolf Bys, intricate stucco work, gilded cornices, and preserved Baroque woodwork. The palace’s décor reflects both noble aesthetics and educational aspirations.
Artistic Contributions: The interior features allegorical and mythological frescoes, period furnishings, and heraldic motifs, highlighting the craftsmanship of 17th-century Prague (czwiki.cz).

Visiting Palác Straků z Nedabylic

Location and Directions

Address: Maltézské náměstí 476/14, Prague 1, Czech Republic
Public Transport: Easily accessible via Malostranská tram stop (lines 12, 18, 20) and Malostranská metro station (Line A). Walking distance from Prague Castle and Charles Bridge (Prague Tourist Information).

Visiting Hours

General Access: The palace’s exterior and courtyard are accessible to the public daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Interior Access: As an active government and educational institution, interior visits are limited to special events (such as Open House Prague) or by appointment for guided tours (Open House Prague; Prague Experience).

Tickets and Admission

Exterior and Courtyard: Free of charge; no tickets required.
Interior Tours: Entry is only possible during special events or pre-arranged guided tours, typically requiring advance (free) registration via official channels. No regular ticket sales are offered due to the building’s governmental function.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Open House Days: Public tours take place during special events, such as Open House Prague or Czech Statehood Day. These tours, often in Czech (with occasional English options), offer access to ceremonial halls, meeting rooms, and historical exhibits.
Booking: Advance registration is required; spots are limited and fill quickly.

Accessibility

Physical Access: The courtyard is wheelchair accessible. Some interior areas have ramps or elevators, but due to the historic structure, certain sections may be less accessible. Contact event organizers in advance for specific needs (Prague Tourist Information).

Visitor Regulations

Security: Valid photo ID is required for interior tours. Security screening (bag checks, metal detectors) is standard. Large bags, food, drinks, and pets are not permitted inside.
Dress Code: Smart casual attire is recommended out of respect for the formal government setting.

Nearby Attractions

Prague Castle: Iconic historical complex with St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane (Czechia-Prague.com).
Charles Bridge: Famed pedestrian bridge with baroque statues.
Wallenstein Garden: Baroque gardens open in warm months.
Church of St. Nicholas and Maltese Square: Other Malá Strana highlights.

Photography Guidelines

Exterior: Photography is welcome around the palace and courtyard, with picturesque views of the Vltava River and cityscape.
Interior: Photography during tours is usually restricted for security and preservation reasons. Always confirm with guides before taking photos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the interior of Palác Straků z Nedabylic?
A: Interior access is limited to special public events or by prior arrangement for guided tours.

Q: Are tickets required?
A: No tickets are needed for viewing the exterior and courtyard. Special event tours require advance (usually free) registration.

Q: What are the palace’s visiting hours?
A: The exterior and courtyard are open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Q: Is the palace accessible for persons with disabilities?
A: The courtyard is wheelchair accessible; selected interior areas may be accessible by ramp or elevator.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is permitted outside; interior photography is usually restricted—ask guides for permission.

Q: Are tours available in English?
A: Most tours are in Czech, but English materials or guides may be available during special events. Consider a private guide for in-depth interpretation.

Practical Tips

Plan Ahead: Consult official websites and event calendars for upcoming open days and registration details.
Arrive Early: Special event tours have limited capacity and fill up quickly.
Bring ID: Required for entry during guided tours or open days.
Travel Light: Leave large bags at home—security will not permit them inside.
Combine Visits: Pair your palace visit with other Malá Strana attractions for a memorable day out.
Use Public Transport: Parking is limited in the historic district; trams and metro are convenient alternatives.
Dress Appropriately: Respect the building’s formal function by avoiding overly casual attire.

Conclusion

Palác Straků z Nedabylic stands as a captivating testament to Prague’s rich architectural, artistic, and civic legacy. Although public access to its interiors is limited, the palace’s storied past, noble philanthropy, and stunning Baroque and Neo-Baroque features make it a rewarding destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. Plan your visit around special events for rare interior access, and take advantage of its central location to explore the broader cultural tapestry of Malá Strana and Prague.

For up-to-date visiting hours, tour opportunities, and travel inspiration, consult official sources and consider downloading the Audiala app for curated guides to Prague’s hidden gems.

References and Further Reading

Image and internal linking suggestions: Use high-quality photos with descriptive alt text such as “Palác Straků z Nedabylic Baroque façade,” “Straka Academy courtyard,” and “Jan Rudolf Bys frescoes.” Internally link to articles on Malá Strana, Straka Academy, and Prague’s architectural heritage.