140 years ago, the foundation stone of Prague's Rudolfinum was laid

Prague - The Prague Rudolfinum is a dignified venue for various fields of art, with its spatial design and multifunctional use practically ahead of its time by nearly a century. The construction of the building, which temporarily also served as the seat of parliament, began 140 years ago on June 23, 1876. Its spaces opened to the public on February 7, 1885.

The monumental neo-Renaissance building, built according to the plans of Josef Zítek and Josef Schulze, also architects of the National Theatre, was ceremoniously opened in the presence of the Austrian crown prince Rudolf. It was named the House of Artists in honor of its patron. The first visitors also viewed the exhibition of the newly established Museum of Applied Arts. In January 1896, the Czech Philharmonic began its activities at Rudolfinum. In honor of the first concert conducted by Antonín Dvořák, the concert hall was later named Dvořák Hall.

The building was constructed by the Czech Savings Bank on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of its founding. After the declaration of the Czechoslovak Republic, Rudolfinum served as the seat of parliament, which functioned here until April 1946, with the exception of the German occupation. After 1945, the Czech Philharmonic returned to this location, which it still occupies today. In May 1946, the first Prague Spring Festival was also held here. At one time, the Prague Conservatory and the Academy of Performing Arts also used the spaces. Since 1989, Rudolfinum has been a national cultural monument.