National Theatre

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The theatre's gold-plated roof was nicknamed the 'Golden Chapel' by the Czech public.

2. 2

   The cornerstone of the building was sourced from various historically significant mountains across the Czech lands.

3. 3

   The curtain design is the work of painter Vojtěch Hynais and has been restored multiple times to maintain its original 1883 appearance.

4. 4

   A fire in 1881 destroyed the building only two months after its ceremonial opening, prompting an immediate public subscription to rebuild it.

5. 5

   The building features 19th-century mechanical stage technologies that were considered state-of-the-art during the theater's completion.

6. 6

   The New Stage building is constructed from thousands of hand-blown glass blocks designed by architect Karel Prager.

7. 7

   There are over 1,000 seats distributed across the historic building's multi-tiered auditorium.

8. 8

   The building is officially a National Cultural Monument of the Czech Republic.

Overview

The National Theatre in Prague is the Czech Republic's representative stage, housing the country's oldest and most prestigious artistic institution. Designed by architect Josef Zítek in the Neo-Renaissance style, the building is defined by its iconic gilded roof and a facade adorned with allegorical sculptures. It serves as the primary home for the Czech National Ballet, Opera, and Drama companies. The original 1881 building was destroyed by fire shortly after its opening, leading to a national fundraising campaign that funded its reconstruction. The interior features a grand auditorium decorated with gold leaf, marble, and allegorical paintings by Mikoláš Aleš and František Ženíšek. A major expansion, the New Stage (Nová scéna), was added in the 1980s, offering a modernist architectural contrast to the historic building. The complex overlooks the Vltava River and serves as a vital hub for Czech national cultural identity.

Insider tips

• Check if your performance is held in the historic building or the adjacent New Stage to ensure you arrive at the correct entrance.

• Arrive early to explore the foyer, as the architectural detailing and statues are considered significant works of Czech art.

• Consider booking seats in the dress circle or first balcony for the best acoustic balance.