The fascinating National Museum in Prague
Summary: Dinosaur bones, stunning statues, beautiful paintings, precious rocks, the National Museum in Prague is a fascinating place to absorb culture and history in a this unique part of Europe!
Situated at the top of Wenceslas Square, the museum's main building is an architectural landmark, designed by Josef Schulz and completed in 1891. This grand Neo-Renaissance structure is characterised by its impressive façade, adorned with sculptures and intricate details that celebrate Czech culture and history.
The museum's extensive collection spans various fields, including natural history, anthropology, archaeology, art, and music. It houses millions of items, offering a comprehensive overview of the natural and cultural heritage of the Czech lands. Among its notable exhibits are ancient artifacts from prehistoric times, medieval manuscripts, and a wide array of fossils and minerals. The museum also boasts an impressive numismatic collection, featuring coins, medals, and banknotes from different historical periods.
One of the highlights of the National Museum is its historical exhibitions, which cover significant events and figures in Czech history. These exhibitions provide a detailed narrative of the country's past, from its early beginnings through to modern times, showcasing artifacts such as royal regalia, historical documents, and items related to prominent Czech personalities.
In addition to the main building, the National Museum operates several other sites around Prague, each dedicated to different aspects of its vast collection. These include the Náprstek Museum of Asian, African, and American Cultures, the Museum of Czech Music, and the Lapidarium, which houses a collection of stone sculptures and architectural fragments.
The National Museum has undergone extensive renovations in recent years, reopening to the public in 2018 with updated exhibits and modernized facilities. These renovations have enhanced the visitor experience, making it easier to navigate the museum's vast collections and providing state-of-the-art display techniques.
Today, the National Museum stands as a testament to the rich cultural and historical legacy of the Czech Republic. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to explore its diverse and meticulously curated exhibits. The museum not only serves as a centre for education and research but also as a symbol of national pride and identity.
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About the Author:
Chris is the founder of Hiatus.Design, a strategic branding, design and communications company that works with clients all over the world.
He is a former Royal Marines Commando officer, former risk advisor to the BBC and is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS).
Chris has travelled in over 60 countries, achieved his second Guinness World Record for an Atlantic Ocean rowing expedition, a Marathon des Sables finisher, and has worked with Hollywood actors, world–renowned musical artists and TV personalities.