Klementinum/Clementinum, A Historical Jewel with Astronomical Wonders
Marianske Namesti 5, 110 00 Prague 1 Old Town
3.9
Introduction
In 1781, the National Library was founded and in 1782, the Clementinum became the designated collection library. In 1918, Czechoslovakia took over the library, beginning a new era. In 1990, it became the National Library.
The Clementinum building, located in the Old Town beside the Charles Bridge, dates back to 1556 when a monastery was built. The first Jesuit church of Salvador was built in Prague in 1601. With the protection of the Habsburg family, the Clementinum gradually grew, featuring a lecture hall, an observatory, a small chapel, a library, a publishing house, and other buildings, becoming the second largest building complex after Prague Castle in the mid 18th century.
Currently, the Clementinum serves as the home of the National Library and National Technical Library in Czech. The most attractive feature of the complex is the astronomical tower, which offers stunning views of the Old Town and has been used for astronomical measurements since 1775. The Mirror Chapel, decorated with mirrors and exquisite details, is without precedent in Czech. Additionally, the Baroque-style library houses beautiful murals and a valuable historical globe. In summary, the Clementinum is one of the largest building complexes in Europe and a landmark of great historical significance that shouldn't be missed. Address Marianske Namesti 5, 110 00 Prague 1 Old Town
Opening hours January-February: 10:00-4:30
March-October: 10:00-18:00
November-December: 10:00-17:30
Transportation Metro line A to Staroměstská Station; Trams 2, 17, 18, 25, and 53 to Staroměstská Station; or Trams 2, 17, 18, and 53 to Karlovy lázně Station (walk straight along Karlova Street from Charles Bridge to get there).
