The National Theatre in Prague is a stunning neo-Renaissance building dating from 1868-83. It is instantly recognisable from the river, its golden roof gleaming in the sunshine on fine weather days.
The theatre is set on the Old Town / New Town bank of the River Vltava, one bridge along from Charles Bridge.
For Czech people, the National Theatre is one of the most important cultural institutions in Prague - since inception, a symbol of the Czech National Revival.
To this end the theatre has played a significant role in the development of the Czech language, Czech music and the country's dramatic arts.
The construction of the National Theatre was largely funded by private donations. Shockingly, on the 12th August 1891, just days before the official opening, the whole building was gutted by fire.
Within 6 weeks enough money had been raised to rebuild it. And just two years later, in 1883, it opened with a performance of Libuse by the famous Czech composer Bedrich Smetana.
The rich, artistic tradition continues at the National Theatre today, with a fine repertoire of opera and ballet, Czech drama and advent concerts.
For listings and to book tickets for the National Theatre:
Prague opera, ballet & concerts.
To discover more about the National Theatre, take a Prague tour:
Prague Grand City Sightseeing Tour
Prague Grand City Sightseeing Tour & Boat
Best of Prague Walking Tour
Prague Explorer Walking Tour.
Opera & Ballet
All non-smoking
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No dress code, although most people dress reasonably smartly. Attire ranges from casual to formal evening wear
