Karolinum

Karolinum – the focal point of Charles University, where all its faculties, teaching and research departments symbolically converge. The seat of the first university north of the Alps and east of the Rhine, which has served its mission for more than six and a half centuries without major interruptions and changes.
Josef Petráň relates the history of the Karolinum building to instruction and ceremonies at Charles University, describing its development and focusing primarily on modern reconstructions according to designs by Jaroslav Fragner and Tomáš Šantavý. He also expands on ceremonies, particularly the rector’s inauguration, matriculations, and graduations, describes their scenarios and the insignia used. Rich illustrations include current color photographs of the building and historical items as well as historical photographs, drawings, construction and site plans. This second, updated edition includes a new chapter on Karolinum’s recent transformations.