Lapidarium: Exploring Bohemian Stone Carving and Architectural Monuments at the National Museum

The Lapidarium of the National Museum presents a vast collection of stone carving, architectural, and sculptural works spanning from the 11th to the late 19th centuries. This long-term exhibition showcases irreplaceable monuments saved from demolished buildings and removed urban elements, offering a comprehensive view of Bohemian art history in stone.

The Lapidarium of the National Museum houses one of the Czech Republic's most extensive collections of sculptured stone monuments, focusing on works from the early Middle Ages through to the late 19th century. The collection was formally constituted in 1898, though some pieces were exhibited earlier. Many of the exhibited items were salvaged during Prague's urban redevelopment, particularly between 1890 and 1930, from demolished churches, palaces, and public spaces. These include significant architectural fragments, tombstones, reliefs, and fountains, as well as memorials associated with the Habsburg Monarchy that were removed after Czechoslovakia's independence. The current exhibition arrangement, dating from 1993, is considered among the leading European collections of its kind and has earned accolades such as European Museum of the Year. The Lapidarium also serves as a venue for artistic projects, lectures, and concerts. The history of the Lapidarium collection is intertwined with the development of the National Museum and Prague itself. Efforts to preserve stone monuments date back to the mid-19th century, but it wasn't until the late 19th century that a dedicated collection was established. Major acquisitions occurred during periods of significant urban change, where valuable artistic and architectural elements were saved from destruction. This careful curation ensures the preservation of a crucial part of Czech artistic and architectural heritage, offering visitors a unique journey through centuries of stone artistry. The exhibition space, housed in a historic building originally constructed for the Jubilee Exhibition of 1891 and later modified, provides a fitting backdrop for these historical artifacts.

Tickets for the Lapidarium can be purchased online or at the box office. Various concessions are available, including for seniors, students, and children. The e-ticket is valid for 30 days from purchase for a single entry. Free admission is provided for children up to 15 years old when accompanied by an adult, and for specific groups with valid identification.