Clam-Gallas Palace

Clam-Gallas Palace is one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Prague. It is set amongst the narrow streets and quaint buildings of the Old Town, between the Old Town Square and Charles Bridge.

During the 18th century, great balls and concerts were held at the Clam-Gallas Palace, attended by the likes of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and his wife.

Ludwig van Beethoven even played a concert here, and dedicated some musical pieces to the Clam-Gallas family.

The palace was conceived in 1713 by the imperial court architect Johann Bernhard Fisher von Erlach from Vienna, and constructed by Italian architect Domenico Canevale.

It was built for the Viceroy of Naples, Johann Wenceslaus, Count of Gallas. However, when the Gallas family died out in 1757, the palace was devolved to the Clam family, establishing the Clam-Gallas name.

Clam-Gallas Palace is a monumental complex, with four tracts centred around a square courtyard; a classic example of pure Viennese Baroque architecture. There are pairs of giants statues by M. B. Braun at both portals of the palace.

Inside the Clam-Gallas Palace, there is a beautiful staircase, with paintings by the famous Italian artist Carlo Carlone above. Most of the paintings were inspired by ancient mythology.

The central hall of the palace is the Marble Hall, also called the White, Golden or Gala Hall. It is decorated with mirrors and crystal chandeliers, and was the place where balls were held.

In the 20th century, certain rooms were rented out as offices, which led to Franz Kafka working here as a trainee after finishing his law studies.

Today, Clam-Gallas Palace hosts exhibitions, and a couple of times a year it holds authentic historical Baroque concerts. The summer concerts run from mid-August to early September and are held in the courtyard - a lovely setting on a warm evening.

The winter concerts are held inside the palace during the first half of February.

As the concerts are so infrequent, it is well worth attending one if it coincides with your visit to Prague.

For concert listings and to book tickets: Prague concerts.