Palác Smiřických, Renaissance palace in Malá Strana, Czech Republic
Palác Smiřických is a Renaissance palace with Baroque elements, featuring a four-sided layout with an internal courtyard, polygonal corner towers, and large window openings. The facade facing Malostranské náměstí appears formal and shows the classical proportions typical of noble residences from this period.
Construction began in 1573 after Jindřich Smiřický acquired the site, where medieval buildings previously stood and had been damaged by Prague's Great Fire. The building passed through the hands of various noble families across generations before eventually serving state functions.
Today the palace houses chambers of the Chamber of Deputies and serves as a symbol of Czech statehood that visitors recognize as part of the nation's governance. Its location on the main square makes it a visual landmark for anyone exploring this historic district.
The palace stands at Malostranské náměstí 6/18 near St Nicholas Church and Charles Bridge, with many cafes and restaurants in the immediate surroundings. The location is very central and easily reached on foot, especially when coming from the Old Town.
On May 22, 1618, Czech nobles gathered here to plan their opposition against the Habsburgs, a meeting that led to events triggering the Thirty Years War. This gathering became a turning point in European history and transformed the location into far more than a noble residence.
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