On Betlémské Square in Prague’s Old Town, the Náprstek Museum explores cultures and histories from Asia, Africa and the Americas. Its three floors bring together changing exhibitions and collections that have included Czech women’s history, Egyptology, Vietnamese life in the Czech Republic, and artefacts from Australia and Oceania. Look for the display of mummified animals and the exhibits arranged around Pacific islands. The museum is compact enough for a focused visit, with English information available for many, though not all, displays.
Collections across three floors
The Náprstek Museum is part of the National Museum and focuses on cultures and histories from Asia, Africa and the Americas. Its permanent display space can hold only part of the collection, so themed exhibitions bring different subjects into view over time. Check the National Museum website to see what is on during your visit.
The three floors have included exhibitions on Czech women before universal suffrage, Egyptology, and the cultures of Australia and Oceania. The displays are arranged by subject and region, giving the visit a clear route through varied material. Some exhibitions have substantial English text; information in English is more limited in the Australia and Oceania section.
Details to look for
The Egyptology displays include coffins and mummified remains, as well as a notable group of mummified animals. In the Australia and Oceania galleries, objects are organised into separate cases for different Pacific islands, giving each area its own display.
Exhibitions have also addressed Vietnamese people’s lives in the Czech Republic, including experiences shared by a second generation, and the history of the Náprstek family. The museum’s subjects change, so the current exhibition programme is the best guide to what you will see on the day.
FAQ
How long do you need at the Náprstek Museum?
Plan for about 1 to 2 hours. A visit across the three floors has been estimated at a little over an hour.
Is the Náprstek Museum open on Mondays?
No. It is closed on Mondays. On other days it opens at 10 am, except Wednesday when it opens at 9 am, and closes at 6 pm.
Are the exhibitions in English?
Many displays have English information. The Australia and Oceania section may have little or no English text.
Do you need to buy tickets in advance?
Admission is paid, and advance tickets are recommended. Check the National Museum website for ticket details and current exhibitions.
