Hrzánský palác, Renaissance palace in Hradčany, Czech Republic
Hrzánský palác is a Renaissance palace in Hradcany built as a connected group of structures that extends along the southern side of Loretánská Street near Prague Castle. The complex consists of multiple wings and courtyards that form a unified architectural composition.
The site has changed hands multiple times since the 14th century, with notable owners including cathedral builder Petr Parléř and chancellor Jindřich of Plavno. Over time, additions and modifications transformed it into the multi-winged structure seen today.
The palace served as an ecclesiastical administrative center for the Metropolitan Chapter of St. Vitus after 1756, and this religious function remains visible in the building's layout and decoration. The space reflects centuries of ecclesiastical use through its spatial arrangement.
The palace is not open to visitors as it serves as an official government building near the Prague Castle complex. However, the exterior can be viewed from Loretánská Street, where the Renaissance design is clearly visible from the public street.
After a property division, Count Hrzán commissioned a steep spiral staircase with nearly one hundred steps that remains a distinctive feature of the complex today. This unusual structure demonstrates how the building was adapted creatively to meet changing spatial needs.
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