Kapitulní rezidence

Kapitulní rezidence (Chapter Residence) is a historic corner building on the western side of Hradčanské náměstí (Hradčany Square) in Prague, tied for centuries to the chapter of St. Vitus Cathedral. The complex consists of three single-storey wings arranged around an inner courtyard, behind which stretches a spacious garden. A wall decorated with Baroque sculptures and vases separates the courtyard from the garden, making it one of the better-preserved pieces of garden architecture surviving on Hradčany.

How did the residence change over the centuries?

The site's history goes back to the 14th century. From 1374, the northern house on the plot belonged to the archdeacon of Litoměřice. Before the century was out, Václav of Radče had it rebuilt into what contemporary descriptions called a handsome building with towers and a chapel dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The following centuries were not kind to the building: it was damaged by fires in 1541 and 1607, and rebuilt after each.

Where does the current Baroque appearance come from?

The building's present look owes most to a reconstruction carried out in the 1730s under Bishop Jan Ondřej Kayser, likely with the involvement of architect Anton Wenzel Spannbrucker. It underwent one more significant round of building work after the residence was damaged during the Prussian bombardment of Prague in 1757, during the Seven Years' War. The late Baroque, classicizing form visible today dates from work completed in 1775.

What is the residence used for today?

Kapitulní rezidence now functions as a parish building connected to the chapter of the nearby St. Vitus Cathedral. It stands within a garden enclosed by a high wall, so from the outside visitors mainly see its representative street facade facing the square. The building is listed among the cultural monuments of Hradčany, as part of the historic complex surrounding Prague Castle.

Where exactly is it located?

The building stands on Hradčanské náměstí in Hradčany (Prague 1), right next to Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the chapter deanery (kapitulní děkanství). It is one of the last buildings along the square before the castle gates, so it is easy to walk past on the way to visit the castle itself.

Frequently asked questions

What is Kapitulní rezidence? It is the former residence of the canons of the St. Vitus Cathedral chapter, now used as a parish building.

Can visitors enter the interior or the garden? The building is an active parish property and its garden is enclosed by a high wall, so from the outside only the facade facing Hradčanské náměstí can be seen.

Where does its current appearance come from? From a Baroque reconstruction in the 1730s and finishing works completed in 1775, carried out after damage sustained during the Seven Years' War.

How do you get to the residence? On foot from Hradčanské náměstí, just a short walk from the main entrance to Prague Castle.