The new building of the National Museum has a very interesting history because it served at first as the Prague Stock Exchange (1938 to the arrival of the occupational forces), then as the parliament (1946-1992), radio studio (1995 - 2009) and at present it functions as a museum, remaining diverse in the sense of its exhibits.
It has recently been connected with the nearby Historical Building by an underground passage with a unique multi-media exhibition called “Moments of History”. Its 1st part is dedicated to the tumultuous 20th century events that took place in Wenceslas Square, while the 2d part shows the architectural development of this place, from the 19th century to the present.
Long-term exhibitions in the New Building
History of the 20th century – learn about the Czech modern history from the First World War to the Czech Republic’s accession to the European Union. The variety of events and destinies of people is presented in various environments, showing the development of squares and streets, the transformation of commercial and cultural spaces, as well as the private spaces of apartments with period furnishings.
The exhibition also provides an insight into the changes in Czech and Czechoslovak politics. It represents key figures, as well as fundamental decisions of power that influenced all sections of the population.
"Mysarium" – a relaxation zone inspired by the book “The Long Night of the Museum Mouse”. Here, young visitors can team up with Elvíra the mouse and Emil the pigeon and enter their world full of colour, imagination and playfulness at least for a while.
