Czernin Palace

Černínský palác (Czernin Palace), located in the prestigious Hradčany district, between Strahov Monastery and Prague Castle Square, directly opposite the Loreta, is one of Prague’s grandest Baroque palaces. It was commissioned in the 1660s by Count Humprecht Jan Czernín, a diplomat of the Habsburg court, for the powerful Czernín aristocratic family. The palace reflects their wealth and influence with its impressive façade and richly decorated interiors. Czernín Palace is also known for its stunning baroque garden, complete with fountains, statues, and beautiful flowers.

In the 19th century, the palace was sold to the military, which led to significant damage and neglect. However, in the 1920s, it underwent extensive renovation to become the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a role it continues to serve today. ((The Ministry also uses the Tuscany Palace, a grand Baroque residence located on the west side of Hradčany Square.)

Interestingly, Count Tomáš Czernin, a modern - day descendant of the family, is a politician for TOP 09, a center - right Czech political party that advocates for pro - European, liberal - conservative policies. He has served as a Deputy President of the Senate, continuing the Czernin family’s long - standing involvement in national affairs.

The palace is deeply connected with Czech political history, particularly through Jan Masaryk, who worked here as the Foreign Minister after World War II. Jan Masaryk was the son of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk (TGM), the founding father and first president of Czechoslovakia, a highly respected and beloved figure in Czech history. Jan Masaryk himself was a prominent diplomat and politician, known for his pro - Western stance and efforts to maintain Czechoslovakia’s independence during turbulent times.

Tragically, Jan Masaryk died under mysterious and controversial circumstances in 1948, when he was found dead below a window of Czernin Palace. Officially ruled a suicide, many believe his death was a politically motivated assassination during the Communist takeover of Czechoslovakia. His death remains a poignant symbol of the country’s struggle for freedom and democracy during the Cold War era.

Though the palace is not generally open to the public, its magnificent exterior, elegant courtyard, and surrounding historic streets offer a glimpse into Prague’s aristocratic and political heritage.

💡 Top Tip 💡

Take a guided walking tour of the Hradčany district to appreciate the palace’s architecture alongside other nearby landmarks like Strahov Monastery, Loreta, and other significant palaces in the area.

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🍴Where to eat : 

(Here are some suggestions. All are within 7 min walking from your current location).

 

[$]

-U Černého vola (Historic Czech pub with legendary Pilsner and local charm) 4.5 ⭐ 

-U Labutí (Traditional Czech restaurant near Prague Castle) 4.3 ⭐ 

 

[$]

-Snack Café U Raka ((Charming café with homemade treats in a fairytale setting) 4.7 ⭐

-Klášterní pivovar Strahov (Monastic brewery & Czech cuisine) 4.4 ⭐ 

-U Zavěšenýho kafe  (Legendary pub with “hanging coffee” tradition and Prague views) 4.1 ⭐ 

[$$]

-Kuchyň (Traditional Czech cuisine with stunning castle views) 4.6 ⭐

-Lví Dvůr (Elegant Czech restaurant with castle views and garden terrace) 4.1 ⭐ 

-Host Restaurant(Modern Czech & European cuisine in a stylish setting) 4.4 ⭐

 

[$$]

-TAST Restaurant (Modern European cuisine with a creative twist) 4.9 ⭐

-Terasa U Zlaté studně  (Fine dining with panoramic castle views) 4.7 ⭐