Klementinum

The Klementinum (Clementinum) has undergone a rich architectural evolution. Since the Middle Ages, great European astronomers, scientists, philosophers and musicians have studied and worked here, influencing the development of its wonderful array of buildings.

Albert Einstein taught physics here, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart played music, and Tycho Brahe and Johannes Kepler explored the stars.

Construction of the Klementinum began in 1556, following the arrival of the Jesuits: from 1578 to 1726, a former Dominican Convent was replaced with Baroque churches and college buildings. Famous architects, sculptors and artists were involved in the design and decoration.

MAJOR BUILDINGS in KLEMENTINUM:

-Mirror Chapel (see picture 1) is a truly beautiful and unique chapel within the Klementinum complex. Built in 1724, it features extensive frescoes and intricate carvings, and houses two 18th-century organs - one of which was played by W.A. Mozart during his visits to the Klementinum.

-Astronomical Tower: 172 steps lead to the top of the tower for 360° views over Prague. A lift operates only part of the way, and the steps are steep, so not for visitors with walking difficulties.

-Baroque Library: home of the Czech National Library, it holds 27,000 books and manuscripts dating from the early 17th century onwards, and historically important globes. Decorated with magnificent ceiling frescoes, the room remains as it was in the 18th century.

-Meridian Hall: situated on the 2nd floor of the tower. Light streaming into the hall from the window determines high noon. Astronomical instruments on display measure the distances of celestial objects.

-St. Clement's Cathedral and St. Salvator Church form part of the outer wall of the Klementinum, and feature some of the finest Baroque architecture in Prague.

HOW TO VISIT the KLEMENTINUM:

1. Guided Tour:

Guided tours of the Klementinum include the Astronomical Tower, Baroque Library and Meridian Hall. Tours run every 30 minutes from 10:00-18:00 and last 50 minutes.

Tickets are available on-site. Prices:

Adult: 380 CZK
Senior (65+yrs): 230 CZK
Student (16-26yrs): 300 CZK
Child (6-15yrs): 230 CZK
Family (2 adults and up to 4 children): 810 CZK.

The Mirror Chapel is not included in the tour. It is reserved exclusively for classical concerts.

2. Mirror Chapel Concerts:

Classical concerts at the Klementinum are staged in the Mirror Chapel (see picture 1). The 18th-century organs are played in the performances.

The concerts are popular and tickets are limited, so advance booking is essential:

View listings and book concert tickets

3. St. Clement's and St. Salvator Concerts:

St. Clement's Cathedral and St. Salvator Church form part of the outer wall of the Klementinum, and both stage remarkable classical concerts.

The concerts are popular and tickets are limited, so advance booking is essential:

View listings and book concert tickets.