- Address: Zenklova 1/35, 180 00 Praha 8-Libeň-Praha 8, Czech Republic
Almost in the center of Prague there is an elegant Lieben castle (Libeňský zámek obřadní síň). It is designed in the style of rococo and is surrounded by a green park. It hosts various events, art exhibitions, concerts, wedding ceremonies are especially popular.
Description of the structure
The Libyan Castle is a national cultural monument. It was first mentioned in 1363. It was a fortified building, the facade of which changed several times. First it was built in the Gothic style, then reconstructed in the Renaissance, later the baroque elements were added, and at the end of the 18th century the structure received its modern appearance.
In 1770, a chapel of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary was added to the building. The main architect was the famous Czech master Josep Prachner. The walls of the church are decorated with canvases written by Ignat Raab. Today you can listen to organ music here.
Historical background
During the period of its existence, the Lieben castle changed its owners several times. For example, it was the residence of the mayor, who received high-ranking guests here. Here came Leopold the Second and Maria Theresa. In the middle of the XIX century the building ceased to be popular, it was used as a hospital. Patients were brought here during the plague epidemic. In 1882 there was opened an educational institution for Bohemian youth. At the beginning of the 20th century a beautiful park was built around the castle of Lieben. Landscape design was handled by Frantisek Tomayer.
What to see?
During the tour through the palace, visitors can enjoy the old interior. The ceilings and walls of the building are decorated with unique frescoes and stunning paintings. By the way, they were not completely saved, but this fact does not spoil the overall picture of magnificence.
Particular attention in the Lieben castle should be given to a large hall located in the east wing on the first floor. It contains elements made in the Rococo style, which give the room pomposity:
- sculptures of mythological characters;
- vases depicting playing putti - boys with wings, symbolizing the harbingers of the angelic and earthly spirit.
Wedding ceremony in the castle of Lieben
If during the registration of marriage you want to feel like a real prince and a princess, then choose for the wedding ceremony the Lieben castle. Its interior is considered the most beautiful in Prague. The photos taken here resemble pictures from a fairy tale.
Currently, the building is hosted by the administration of the city district, called Prague 8. There are official registration, the usual ceremony costs about $ 30-50. Before submitting an application, you will be asked to choose a place for the ceremony:
- a solemn hall - a budget option, which is suitable for a large number of guests;
- chapel - the rent of the temple is about $ 500, while it is worth considering that its area is designed for 10-15 people.
Features of visit
Officially Libensky Castle works every day, except weekends, from 08:00 am. On Monday and Wednesday it closes at 18:00, on Tuesdays and Thursdays - at 15:30, on Friday - at 15:00. In fact, visitors are allowed here only when there are some events in the building, and the entrance is free. Just to walk around the castle tourists are not allowed.
How to get there?
Prior to the castle of Lieben, you can get there by public transport such as:
- Metro - Line B (yellow branch), the station is called Palmovka (Palmovka);
- trams number 55, 54, 52, 25, 16, 12, 10, 8, 3 and 1, you need to go to the stop Stejskalova;
- buses Nos. 194, 220, 240, 250, 303 and 353, direction B, exit at the station Andel (Anděl).
Also from the center of Prague before the construction you will reach the streets of Pernerova, Pobřežní and Voctářova. The distance is about 6 km. In 100 m from the castle there is a parking.