The National Theatre (Národní divadlo) in Prague is a stunning neo-Renaissance building situated by the Vltava River, next to Legions Bridge (Most Legii), on the Old Town/New Town side of the city. Built between 1868 and 1883, the theatre is instantly recognisable on sunny days by its golden roof gleaming in the sunshine.
The National Theatre boasts a rich artistic tradition, offering a fine repertoire of opera and ballet performances, as well as Czech drama. It is one of three opera houses in Prague.
For Czech people, the National Theatre is probably the most important cultural institution in the country. Since inception, it has been a symbol of the Czech National Revival: It has played a significant role in the development of the Czech language, music and dramatic arts. The construction of the National Theatre was largely funded by private donations. But shockingly, on the 12th August 1891, just days before the official opening, the whole building was gutted by fire. Within 6 weeks, enough money had been raised to rebuild it. And just two years later, in 1883, it opened with a performance of Libuse by the famous Czech composer Bedřich Smetana.
The National Theatre is 7-10 minutes walk from Wenceslas Square and 10 minutes from the Old Town Square, and is easily accessible by tram and metro.
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