Discover Prague Monuments Offering Open Days to Honor Liberation Day

Liberation Day or Victory Day in Czechia and Prague is celebrated on May 8. This year it falls on Wednesday. As a public holiday across the country, it has many activities, such as open days offered by several historical, cultural, and political monuments.

Open days draw huge crowds to these attractions. In 2023,  12,000 people visited these landmarks on open days as per data from the Government Office.

“The tradition of open-door days belongs to the Government Office every year, and I am glad that this year, too, visitors will have the opportunity to see the representative premises of the Prime Minister and the places where he receives foreign visitors. In the Straka Academy, people visit the premises where the government acts and makes major decisions. Last year alone, 12,000 visitors visited these facilities,” said Jana Kotalíková, head of the Government Office.

Monuments to Explore

Throughout the year, the Government Office will organize 14 open days. The facilities involved are the Liechtenstein Palace, Kramář Villa, Hrzánské Palace, and the Straka Academy.

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This opportunity allows visitors free entry and tours around the monuments. On the 2024 Victory Day, visitors will enjoy open-day offerings at Hrzánský Palace. This 14th-century complex of buildings runs along the edge of the Prague Castle. The palace hosts official functions by the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic.

Moreover, Liechtenstein Palace is another surprise in store for visitors on Victory Day. The 17th-century building serves the Czech Government’s official functions. It boasts of hosting world leaders like the Spanish King Juan Carlos and his wife Sophia. Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and Japanese Emperor Akihito with Empress Michiko are more guests hosted at Liechtenstein.

Additionally, visitors can head to the Wallenstein Palace (Valdštejnský palác). This complex is a Baroque exemplar and the seat of the Czech Senate. There is also an adjacent garden for visitors to explore.

The Kolowrat Palace will be another center to marvel at Baroque and Gothic designs. Its exterior and interior decorations are stunning. Organized tours run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in all facilities. These hours also serve as the opening times for visitors. Note that, most museums and galleries will remain open but regular entry fees will apply.