Curious about a palace with a hidden spiral staircase? This is Hrzánský palác. It stands as a testament to Prague’s rich history. Let’s explore its secrets.
Hrzánský palác isn’t a standalone structure. It is part of a complex on Loretánská Street near Prague Castle. Its exact construction date remains a mystery. The architect’s name is also unknown.
Once, a 14th-century Gothic house stood here. It belonged to the St Vitus Chapter. Later, it was owned by imperial porter Henslin. Petr Parléř, St Vitus’ Cathedral’s builder, bought it in 1359. However, he resold it before 1372.
By the mid-15th century, the land was vacant. The City Council gave it to a tailor named Mates. Jindřich of Plavno, a Meissen burgrave, eventually built a house here. Jindřich Mikuláš of Lobkovice acquired it from his heirs. Adam the Elder of Šternberk refurbished it between 1588 and 1600. Oldřich Desiderius Pruskovský of Pruskov remodeled it in Renaissance style. He added a storey facing Loretánská Street.
Even after the Battle of the White Mountain, noblemen owned the house. Count Kolovrat-Krakovský annexed land in 1657. Between 1658 and 1659, he spent a lot of money on a five-storey house. This gave the structure a palace-like feel.
In 1688, Jan František linked it to Dietrichstein Palace. In 1708, Kolovrat conceded the buildings to Count Hrzán of Harasov because of debts. Four years later, the houses were divided again. Dietrichstein Palace went to Kolovrat’s sister. The interior staircase became part of Dietrichstein Palace. Count Hrzán built his own steep spiral staircase. It has close to one hundred steps. Today, it is a main attraction of Hrzánský palác.
Zikmund Hrzán also died in debt. His widow Klaudia rescued the palace in an auction in 1728. However, she went bankrupt ten years later. In 1756, the Metropolitan Chapter of St Vitus acquired the palace. It became the seat of their provostry. They pledged it would be available for the Imperial Court.
Around 1770, Hrzánský palác gained its current look. František Kazimír Strachovský oversaw the remodeling. The Baroque facade facing Loretánská Street was built then. Its simple design features a coat of arms of St Vitus provosts. Inside, preserved decorations include stuccos and Rococo supraports.
In 1915, Ferdinand Engelmüller bought the upper house. He used the rear wing as his studio. He renovated the palace with Viennese experts. They uncovered 16th-century sgraffiti and paintings. Engelmüller also ran a painting school here. Jan Slavíček later portrayed Prague from its windows.
From 1949 to 1954, the palace was radically converted. Vilém Lorenz led the project for the Ministry of Culture. They removed the courtyard tract and created large halls. Socialist realism masterpieces were added. An exquisite Baroque fountain with Hercules remains.
Today, Hrzánský palác serves official functions for the Prime Minister. It has witnessed centuries of change. From Gothic house to Renaissance palace to government venue, Hrzánský palác stands proud. Its walls hold stories of noblemen artists and political figures. Take a moment to appreciate its enduring legacy.