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One of the highlights of visiting is the chance to see Mucha’s Parisian studio, which has been reproduced here using some of the original furniture, personal objects and photographs. A visit here is also the only way to catch a glimpse of his three-dimensional works and the pages taken from his Parisian sketchbook. Czech painter Alfons Mucha is best known for his decorative panels, which mostly depict beautiful women in the Art Nouveau style. You might catch a glimpse of Mucha’s work when you visit the National Museum, but to truly understand his art, you should head here. This is one of few museums in the world where photos are allowed, but remember to buy a special ‘photo/recording authorisation sticker’ when you get your ticket, or you’ll get into trouble with the guards. There’s also a family ticket (allowing entrance to two adults and two children) that’s only slightly more expensive than the normal day ticket. If you want to save money, go then, but if you want to avoid large crowds, go any other day. The museum is free the first Monday of every month. Additional buildings in the complex-including the fascinating collection of puppets at the Museum of Czech Puppets and Circus Acts, in Prachatice, South Bohemia-remain open, and are worth a visit.
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Please note, the 19th-century Main Building is currently under reconstruction, however the collections are currently being stored in the impressive New Building, which has a café and hosts a number of exhibitions. It has six major departments, including the Department of Old Czech History, where you can learn about the fight for the independence of Czechoslovakia (which eventually happened in 1918), 15th-century weapons used in the Hussite wars, fine Bohemian crystal from the 18th century and many church-related items from the Middle Ages. Founded in 1818, the National Museum is home to a vast collection of over 14 million items. If you’re going to visit only one museum while in Prague, this is the one.