Štefánik's Observatory

Štefánik's Observatory is an astronomical facility located in Prague's Hradčany district on Petřín hill at about 321 meters above sea level. Inside are two main telescopes, including a Zeiss refractor and a Maksutov-Cassegrain model, both used for viewing the night sky.

The facility was established in 1928 by the Czech Astronomical Association as a public space for observing the heavens. It relocated from its original location at Wilson Railway Station to its present site on Petřín hill.

The observatory is named after Milan Rastislav Štefánik, a figure important to Czech science and culture. Today it functions as a place where people come together to observe the sky and learn about celestial objects.

The observatory is accessible by walking from central Prague or using public transit that reaches Petřín hill. Check opening times before visiting, as they vary with the season and weather conditions that affect viewing.

The foundation of the main telescope holds ceremonial urns containing the ashes of two important Czech astronomers who shaped the observatory's work. This makes the site a living memorial to their contributions to astronomy.

Location: Hradčany

Location: Prague 1

Inception: 1928

Official opening: 1928

Architectural style: Gothic architecture, Neoclassical architecture

Elevation above the sea: 321 m

Website: https://planetum.cz/stefanikova-hvezdarna

GPS coordinates: 50.08119,14.39822

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:07