It was built on the foundations of a palace that belonged to the family of the Count of Wallenstein, although the necessary area for this megalomaniac project had to be obtained by destroying more than 20 other houses, a brickworks and 3 gardens… Between 1624 and 1630, the count had a huge building complex constructed there, which also included a Mannerist garden adorned with bronze sculptures, a Sala Terrena and an artificial grotto.
The palace itself was built by Italian artists and displays a style between Mannerism and early Baroque. It is set around various courtyards. The main façade is 60 meters (170ft.) long and follows the Wallenstein Square: it includes numerous windows and three gates. From the main courtyard you can have a look at the private chapel, which is surprisingly high and narrow, and adorned with golden frescos and stucco decorations. Members of the family could attend religious celebrations from private balconies set on various floors.
Today, the Wallenstein palace houses the Czech Senate. You can however visit its most beautiful reception halls on Saturdays and Sundays (admission is free of charge).
The most exceptional room is the Main Hall that covers 2 floors, it is 288 meters long (944ft.): its monumental architecture is one of the most exquisite works of early Baroque in Central Europe. A formidable set of pilasters regulates the setting of the room, adorned with stucco elements that represent military trophies, fruit garlands and winged angels, each of them with a different posture and expression. Monumental fireplaces and great mirrors make the hall seem even bigger. On the ceiling, a fresco by Baccio del Bianco represents Mars, god of war, on his chariot pulled by winged horses: a glorification of count Wallenstein’s distinction at war.
Other meticulously adorned beautiful rooms are also open to public on week-ends, among which the Knight’s Hall, the Audience Chamber and the Myhtological Corridor.
Wallenstein Palace - Valdštejnský palác
Valdštejnské náměstí 4
Prague 1 - Malá Strana
www.senat.cz
How to get there:
Tramway: lines 12 – 20 – 22, stop “Malostranské náměstí”.
Subway Green line A, station “Malostranská”.
Opening hours:
Only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 5pm.
