Rabasova galerie Rakovník

Rabasova Gallery Rakovník occupies a historic former synagogue on Vysoká street in the heart of Rakovník and ranks among the most significant art institutions in Central Bohemia.

Why is the gallery named after Rabas?

The institution takes its name from painter Václav Rabas (1885–1954), who lived in nearby Krušovice and painted the countryside around Rakovník in a distinctive, austere style. His work forms the gallery's permanent collection.

How do you get there?

The gallery sits at Vysoká 226, right in the town centre, just a short walk from the main square and from the striking Vysoká brána (High Gate) — a monumental six-storey town tower built between 1518 and 1524, standing 46 metres tall. The easiest way to reach Rakovník is by train or bus from Prague, a trip of roughly an hour; from the station, the old town and the gallery are within easy walking distance.

What will you see inside?

The main building is a former baroque synagogue dating from 1763, and it has kept its original prayer hall complete with stucco decoration and wall paintings — a rare survival worth seeing on its own, regardless of the current exhibition. The neighbouring house, number 232, once a Jewish school, now houses the Herold Hall, a concert space named after violist Jiří Herold (1875–1934), who was born in Rakovník. Beyond the permanent Rabas display, the gallery runs short-term contemporary art shows in additional venues: the New Hall under the High Gate and an exhibition room inside the town hall. Concerts and educational programmes for children and adults round out the schedule.

When should you visit?

The gallery opens Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00–18:00 (in December, Tuesday to Friday 10:00–18:00, and weekends 10:00–16:00); Mondays are closed. Temporary exhibitions change throughout the year, so it's worth checking the current programme before a visit, especially if you're after a specific show or accompanying event.

A short history

The gallery was founded in autumn 1936 by the Rakovník Society of Friends of Art, set up to support artistic activity across the region. After years operating within larger cultural structures, it regained independence in 1991. Today it runs as a contributory organisation of the Central Bohemian Region, led by academic painter Václav Zoubek.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the synagogue without seeing an exhibition? The former synagogue building with its preserved prayer hall is part of the gallery, so access comes with the exhibition ticket — a single admission covers both the historic interior and the art on display.

How long does a visit take? An hour to ninety minutes is enough for an unhurried look at the permanent Rabas collection and the synagogue's historic interior; allow more time if a temporary exhibition is running in one of the other halls.

Does the gallery host concerts? Yes — the Herold Hall, the former synagogue in the adjoining building, regularly hosts chamber music concerts that nod to the venue's history and its namesake.

Is the gallery suitable for families with children? The gallery runs educational programmes for children and young people, so families are welcome; it's worth checking the current workshop schedule before visiting.