Great Prague Landmarks; The Rudolphinum
August 21st 2008 07:58
The Rudolphinum, which shares a square on the banks of the Vltava with the two ancient halls of Charles University, is one of Prague’s most elegant neo-renaissance buildings. Like the National Theatre, it was constructed during the late 19th century during the resurgence of Czech national pride and culture.
Designed by the architects Joseph Zitek and Josef Schultz, it was built between 1876 and 1884. It was originally intended as art gallery and house of artists but in 1946 it became the home of the Czech National Orchestra. From 1918 to 1938 and again briefly after World War II, it served as the seat of the Czech Parliament.
Today the Rudophinum is most famous for its amazing Dvorak Hall, a music auditorium which, at the least in the Czech view, boasts the most perfect acoustics in the world. According to the stories the acoustics are so sensitive, that even a coat of paint on the wall of the great hall can alter the sound. The music halls of the Rudolphinum host Prague’s famous Spring and Autumn Music Festivals.
But the Rudophinum has not been completely colonized by the performing arts, part of it still remains true to its original purpose and is home to the splendid Gallery of Modern Art.
Although it was named for the 19th century royal, Crown Prince Rudolph, the 16th century Emperor Rudolph is remembered in the stone lions which crouch at its entrance. To read his story, visit Prague, the mother of all cities, Part V, The Habsburgh Dynasty.
The Rudolphinum
Designed by the architects Joseph Zitek and Josef Schultz, it was built between 1876 and 1884. It was originally intended as art gallery and house of artists but in 1946 it became the home of the Czech National Orchestra. From 1918 to 1938 and again briefly after World War II, it served as the seat of the Czech Parliament.
Today the Rudophinum is most famous for its amazing Dvorak Hall, a music auditorium which, at the least in the Czech view, boasts the most perfect acoustics in the world. According to the stories the acoustics are so sensitive, that even a coat of paint on the wall of the great hall can alter the sound. The music halls of the Rudolphinum host Prague’s famous Spring and Autumn Music Festivals.
But the Rudophinum has not been completely colonized by the performing arts, part of it still remains true to its original purpose and is home to the splendid Gallery of Modern Art.
Although it was named for the 19th century royal, Crown Prince Rudolph, the 16th century Emperor Rudolph is remembered in the stone lions which crouch at its entrance. To read his story, visit Prague, the mother of all cities, Part V, The Habsburgh Dynasty.
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