Rosenberg Palace

"The Institute for Noble Women has a rich history dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries, with its roots in the spacious complex that would eventually evolve into the palace. In 1513, the Rožmberk family began acquiring land for the future palace, but a devastating fire in 1541 led to significant destruction, paving the way for a new and larger structure. Initially, a four-wing palace was built under builder Hans Vlach, featuring arcades in the shorter wings and a gate facing Jiřská Street. As the Rožmberks expanded their holdings by acquiring nearby houses, they enhanced their palace with an extensive garden to the west, designed by Ulrico Avostalis in the years 1573–1574. In 1600, Emperor Rudolf II obtained the palace, linking it to the Royal Palace via a wooden passageway. The 1720s saw further modifications, including the addition of a second floor and the division of interior spaces. A significant reconstruction from 1753 to 1756 transformed the palace into the Institute for Noble Women, managed by an unmarried archduchess from the Habsburg-Lorraine family. The first abbess was Archduchess Marie Anna, the daughter of Maria Theresa. The Institute was designed to accommodate noble daughters aged 24 and older, with provisions for orphans from age 18. The reconstruction, led by architect A. Luragho, included a Baroque chapel and living quarters for the noble women, maintaining the original layout with some enhancements. The Institute operated until its disbandment on May 1, 1919, after which it was leased to the Ministry of Interior. The building underwent several adaptations throughout the 20th century, culminating in a comprehensive restoration from 1996 to 2007. The final phase of restoration, aimed at repairing the Renaissance building and its courtyards, was completed in January 2008mation, you can explore sources like Prague Castle's official site and Czech Heritage."

"Rudolf II inherited the Renaissance palace built by the Rosenberg family between 1545 and 1574. It was later completely reconstructed in the eighteenth century to house the Institute of Noblewomen."