Overview
The Ball Game Hall (Míčovna) is a distinguished Renaissance structure located in the Royal Garden of Prague Castle, perched just above the Jelení příkop (Stag Moat). Constructed between 1567 and 1569 by architects Bonifác Wohlmuth and Oldřich Aostalis, it originally served as a venue for popular ball games of the era. Its exterior is renowned for its 68-meter facade adorned with iconic sgraffiti depicting the four elements, seven virtues, and eight liberal arts. Throughout its history, the building has served diverse purposes, including an equestrian hall, a military warehouse, and following significant fire damage in 1945, it was carefully reconstructed. Today, it stands as a preserved national cultural monument that hosts high-caliber art exhibitions, concerts, and significant social gatherings, offering a rare glimpse into the layered architectural and political history of the castle grounds.
What makes this place special
Attributes
Frequently asked questions
Answered frequent questions
Can I enter the Míčovna freely at any time?
No, it is not a traditional museum and entry is restricted to scheduled events, exhibitions, or concerts.
Why is there a hammer and sickle emblem on the building?
It was added in the 1950s as a socialist realism allegory for industry and agriculture, later preserved as a curiosity.