The story of a dynasty that transformed the Czech principality into a kingdom and profoundly shaped the form of Central Europe comes to life in the Prague National Museum’s largest exhibition of the year. It brings together more than 900 exceptional exhibits from nearly seventy institutions from the Czech Republic and abroad, presenting the most extensive project dedicated to the Přemyslid dynasty in both a Czech and European context.

Visitors will see rare treasures displayed only on exceptional occasions. Among the most significant exhibits is the Romanesque sarcophagus of St. Longinus, which is being displayed outside Vyšehrad for the first time and likely once held the body of a monarch, the Royal Crown of Środa Śląska (on display only until July 27, 2026), textiles from the tomb of Saint Ludmila, the funerary jewels of Přemysl II Otakar, his sword, and the personal ring of Přemysl I Otakar.

The exhibition located on the ground floor of the Historical Building of the National Museum tells history as a compelling story of power, ambition, family conflicts, and a changing world. It follows the lives of princes and kings from legendary beginnings to the dynasty’s decline, highlighting their influence on the Czech lands as well as on Europe of the time – it will guide you through four halls from the beginnings of the dynasty through the princely and royal eras to its legacy in the time of the Luxembourgs. It traces not only the development of the royal family, but also the transformation of Bohemia and Moravia from the late 8th to the early 14th century in a broader European context.

In addition to objects associated with the ruling dynasty, the exhibition also offers a glimpse into everyday life in the early and high Middle Ages. It showcases religion, the emergence of fortified settlements and towns, trade, craftsmanship, art, and scholarship. Visitors will see jewelry, liturgical objects, weapons, coins and coin hoards, books, and other exhibits that document the transformation of society and its growing connections with neighboring lands.

The exhibition is available until 15 October 2026.

More information: https://www.nm.cz/en/program/exhibitions/the-premyslids-a-ruling-dynasty-and-its-age