Spanish Hall

Spanish Hall is a ceremonial room in Prague Castle with a length of 43 meters, a width of 21 meters, and a height of 12 meters. The space is outfitted with ornate chandeliers that hold approximately 2,000 electric lights.

Construction of the hall began in 1602 under Emperor Rudolph II, with Italian architect Giovanni Maria Filippi designing the space to house imperial sculpture collections. The project reflected the ruler's ambitions to create spaces for his artistic interests.

The hall functions as a central venue for presidential receptions, diplomatic ceremonies, and classical music performances within the New Royal Palace complex. Its role in official state events shapes how visitors experience the grandeur of the space when ceremonies take place.

Access to the hall is limited and opens only twice per year for visitors, during special openings in May and October alongside other representation rooms. Advance planning is necessary to visit during these rare open periods.

The hall's name comes from Spanish horse stables located directly beneath it, reflecting the architectural layout of Prague Castle. This hidden connection reveals how the historic fortress arranged different functions across its levels.