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Rudolfinum

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The Rudolfinum is a neo-Renaissance building on Jan Palach Square, along the Vltava River in Prague. It houses the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and the Galerie Rudolfinum, an art gallery focused on contemporary art. Its main concert hall, Dvořák Hall, is known for excellent acoustics and is a key venue for the Prague Spring International Music Festival.

Don't miss

  • Dvořák Hall, one of the oldest concert halls in Europe, with renowned acoustics.
  • The Galerie Rudolfinum, a contemporary art gallery with around 1,500 square metres of temporary exhibition space.
  • The building's neo-Renaissance architecture on Jan Palach Square, overlooking the Vltava River.
  • Home of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra since 1946.
  • A main venue for the Prague Spring International Music Festival each May and June.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Rudolfinum

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

Getting there

Know before you go

  • The Czech Philharmonic Orchestra performs in Dvořák Hall; check their schedule for concerts.
  • Galerie Rudolfinum hosts temporary contemporary art exhibitions; it has no permanent collection.
  • The building was once the seat of the Czechoslovak parliament (1919–1939).

A bit of history

The Rudolfinum opened on 8 February 1885, designed by architect Josef Zítek and his student Josef Schulz, and named after Rudolf, Crown Prince of Austria. Between 1919 and 1939, it served as the seat of the Czechoslovak parliament. On 4 January 1896, Antonín Dvořák conducted the Czech Philharmonic in its first concert here.

Common questions

What is the Rudolfinum known for?

It is known for its neo-Renaissance architecture, Dvořák Hall's excellent acoustics, and as the home of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and Galerie Rudolfinum.

Can I visit the Galerie Rudolfinum?

Yes, it is a public art gallery focusing on contemporary art, with temporary exhibitions.

When was the Rudolfinum built?

It opened on 8 February 1885.

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