Národní divadlo

Národní divadlo (the National Theatre) is Prague’s principal national theatre building and a central Czech cultural institution; the original building first opened in 1881. It is noted for its 19th century Neo-Renaissance façade and its role as a primary venue for opera, ballet and drama in the Czech Republic.

The theatre presents a season of opera, ballet and drama with performances throughout the year and maintains an active schedule of rehearsals and premieres. The building and its interiors are also a frequent subject for architectural and cultural tours of Prague and host season openings and national cultural events.

Construction began in the late 19th century and the main building opened in 1881; it was damaged by a fire later that year and underwent reconstruction, reopening in 1883. Since then the institution has expanded its performance spaces to include a newer stage to supplement the historic main house.

The theatre stands on the bank of the Vltava River in central Prague, within walking distance of other central landmarks and public transport links. Its riverside location makes it visible from multiple bridges and river viewpoints.

• Photo vantage point: Best external photo views are from the opposite bank of the Vltava where the theatre's ornate facade and riverside setting are visible in a single frame.
• Guided tours: Guided tours run regularly through the season and allow access to parts of the historic interior not visible during general visits; check the theatre's schedule for tour languages and times.

What to See #

• Main building: Historic main auditorium and original 19th century building opened in 1881 and reconstructed after a fire; hosts major opera, ballet and drama productions.
• New Stage (Nove1 sce9na): Modern performance space opened as the New Stage (Nove1 sce9na) to provide additional rehearsal and smaller-audience performance capacities and complement the main house.