Preview our Privileged Access tour as Karine visits the residence of this noble Czech family. See the original score of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, attend a private concert and more.
Experience Privileged Access on a Lobkowicz Palace tour with Viking
In the heart of historic Prague, within the magnificent grounds of Lobkowicz Palace, lies a story of resilience and artistry. This is more than a palace; it is a living testament to one of Bohemia’s noble families. A visit here is an intriguing journey into their captivating story.
A story of resilience: the Lobkowicz family
The history of the Lobkowicz family is a rare source of continuity in a region that has seen centuries of change. Theirs is a fascinating story of profound loss and remarkable recovery. The family lost (and regained) all of their properties on two separate occasions—first to the Nazis during World War II, and again to the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia in 1948.
In 1939, after the family had resided in the palace for nearly 400 years, Maximilian Lobkowicz was forced to flee on a moment’s notice as the Nazis invaded. He returned in 1945, but his homecoming was short-lived. Just three years later, as communism swept the country, he had to escape once more, leaving with only his hat and coat, never to return. It was not until the restitution laws of the 1990s that Lobkowicz Palace and other Czech family estates were finally returned after more than 40 years.
Privileged Access: A private collection
Following the return of their properties, the family began a significant restoration, and today the palace is immaculate. In an act of incredible generosity, the family has chosen to share their legacy with the world, opening their doors to display one of Europe's greatest private art collections. These restored treasures were rescued from damp depositories and brought back to their former glory for you to witness. The collection, spanning nearly five centuries, provides an unparalleled insider's view of life in Bohemia.
With Viking, you are afforded Privileged Access to discover this fascinating royal past, an experience that culminates in a personal tour hosted by William Lobkowicz himself. Every room and every display speaks to the family’s royal past. You will see masterpieces rarely shown to the public, including two significant works by Canaletto and Bruegel the Elder’s Haymaking, a pinnacle of European landscape painting.
A legacy of musical patronage
Among Lobkowicz Palace’s most unexpected exhibits are treasures of the music world. The Lobkowicz family were faithful benefactors to some of history’s greatest composers, and had it not been for their patronage, some of the best-known pieces of classical music would not exist today. Here you will find handwritten manuscripts from Mozart and Haydn, along with Beethoven's own notes and markings on the score for his Fifth Symphony, an enduring and famous piece of music that was dedicated to the family. To complete this cultural immersion, our guests enjoy a private concert in the palace’s beautiful Baroque Concert Hall.
A tour of Lobkowicz Palace—one of the most significant cultural sites in the Czech Republic—is a remarkable and unique experience. After your tour through the family’s compelling home, Viking guests are invited to savor an elegant lunch in the original family living quarters. Guided by the authentic, continuing story of Prince William Lobkowicz, this tour is a journey into the heart of Bohemia.
A royal welcome in Prague
This deeply personal encounter at Lobkowicz Palace is a celebrated highlight of our journeys that visit Prague, like the Cities of Light or Elegant Elbe itineraries. A visit to Prague is also offered as a pre- or post-cruise extension on many of our most celebrated Rhine and Danube river voyages, such as the eight-day Danube Waltz or 15-day Grand European Tour. Adding a Prague land extension to your itinerary allows you to seamlessly begin or conclude your vacation with an immersive, multi-day stay in the historic Czech capital. It is the ideal way to complement your voyage through the heart of the continent, ensuring you have ample time to discover one of Europe’s most captivating cultural gems.
