The Clementinum

The Clementinum

The Clementinum (Klementinum), one of the largest collections of historic buildings in Europe, is home to the National Library of the Czech Republic. These beautiful Baroque buildings were originally part of a Jesuit College.

In addition to college housed on campus (school, academy Ferdinand, later united with Charles teachings), library, printer, pharmacy, laboratory, hospital and two chapels. Since 1622 there is a library of Karlovy colleges, the basis of today’s National Library, founded in 1781st.

With more than six million books, the Clementinum’s collection is huge and includes copies of every book published in the Czech Republic.

In 1791 there took place the first industrial exhibition in Europe.

Large complex of Klementinum is situated next to the Charles Bridge, right in the historical centre of Prague. The total area of the Clementinum including churches is 19,041 sqm total built-up area without churches is 10,355 m² (13,012 sqm of churches).

The Clementinium has historical significance for the development of the humanities and natural sciences, particularly mathematics and astronomy. Until 1938 there was observatory in the local astronomical tower, to the early 20th century, virtually the only significant observatory in the Czech country.

There is one interesting thing that after the Clementium is named minor planet 3386 Klementinum, which was discovered in 1980 by astronomer J. Brozek in the South Bohemian observatory.

A highlight is the exquisite Baroque Library Hall with its beautiful ceiling artwork; the 68-meter-tall Astronomical Tower with its spectacular views over Prague, and the splendid Mirror Chapel with its exquisite décor.

The Clementinum is now used as a venue for jazz and classical concerts.

Opening hours:

• January – February
  • 10 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.
• March – October
  • 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• November – December
  • 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Tours begin daily (incl. weekends and national holidays) at 10 am, with tours starting every 30 minutes.

It comprises the Baroque library hall (with beautiful frescoes and several historically valuable globes), Meridian hall (a unique room previously used for determining noon) and the Astronomical tower (with a beautiful view of the historical centre of Prague).

Entrance Fee:

Full: 220 CZK

Family: 500 CZK (1-2 adults and at least 1 and up to 3 children)

Reduced: 140 CZK (ZTP, ZTP/P, children from 8 to 18 years, high school and university students under 26)

Free: children under 7 years