Library of the Strahov Monastery

The Strahov Monastery in Hradčany offers two separate tours, including a chance to see one of the most beautiful Baroque libraries in the Czech Republic. The library is divided into two halls, which today are known as the Theological Hall and the Philosophical Hall.

The former was created by architect Jan Dominique Orsi between 1671 and 1679; the artist Siard Nosecký decorated the hall with frescoes inspired by quotations from the Bible and philosophical tracts. More than 18,000 volumes are kept in the Theological Hall, and their contents gave the room its name. One wall is covered solely with different editions of the Bible or parts of it, in many languages. The Theological Hall also contains library equipment, as well as several world globes and astrological globes.

Built by Italian architect Jan Ignácio Palliardi in the late 18th century, the Philosophical Hall boasts monumental ceiling paintings. The Spiritual Development of Mankind is the work of Viennese painter Anton Maulbertsch. The hall contains over 42,000 volumes, including a range of rare books, for example a gift from Napoleon Bonaparte’s wife, Maria Luisa.

Where

Hradčany

Address

Strahovská knihovna

Strahovské nádvoří 132/1
Praha 1 – Hradčany
118 00
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The second tour takes you to the Strahov Picture Gallery, where you can admire Central European, Italian and Flemish art from the 14th to the 19th centuries. The Treasury exhibition also forms part of the tour.

Giulia, Avantgarde Prague

Library of the Strahov Monastery

Address

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