“Do you see that unassuming entrance?” I ask, gesturing toward a historic stone portal. That is the main entrance to Hartig Palace. It is more than just a building. It is a portal to centuries of Prague’s history.
Hartig Palace stands on Thunovská Street in Malá Strana. Its location is enviable. It is directly adjacent to the gardens of Prague Castle. Imagine living so close to royalty.
The history of Hartig Palace stretches back to 1370. Beneš of Kravař, an official of Emperor Charles IV, built the original house. Before 1370, Petr Litomyšlský bought it. In 1499, Jan ze Šelmberka, the highest chancellor, purchased the house. The palace has been owned by many important people.
For a century, the Hartig family owned it until 1818. The palace has carried different names. In the 15th century, it was known as “the royal office.” In the 17th century, it was called “the House of the Golden Carp.” It was also known as “Šelmberk” or “Smyslovský” after its owners.
Even the famous have walked these halls. Before World War I, T.G. Masaryk, who was studying at Charles University, lived here with the author Teréza Nováková.
After World War I, Germany bought the building for its embassy. From 1921 to 1922, architect Adolf Foehr modified the building. He tailored it to the embassy’s needs. Since 1952, the monument authority has protected Hartig Palace.
From 1945, the Czech Red Cross occupied the building. Now, TTP Invest Investment Group owns it. They have begun a comprehensive reconstruction.
Step inside Hartig Palace and feel the history under your feet. The entrance features nine fields of cross vaults. There are lateral staircase entrances. The entire ground floor is vaulted adding to the sense of history.
In the garden, admire the baroque niche with a preserved triangular pediment. An oval cartouche with a bust of a man adorns the pediment. A fountain sits in the niche. Its basin has been newly renovated.
Hartig Palace offers nearly 2,000 square meters of covered space. It combines spaciousness with elegance. This is necessarily associated with its historical value.
Note the proximity to diplomatic centers. The embassies of Italy, the United States, Russia, and Great Britain are nearby. The walls of the British Embassy directly adjoin Hartig Palace. It is also close to the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Republic.
Hartig Palace has witnessed centuries of change. It has housed royalty, diplomats, and students. It has been a royal office, a private residence, and an embassy. Today, Hartig Palace stands as a testament to Prague’s rich history. Its walls whisper stories of emperors, chancellors, and artists. Take a moment to appreciate the legacy of Hartig Palace. It is a true gem of Malá Strana.