Plan your visit to Old Town Square, Prague City Center, Prague, Czechia
This public space is as important to the people of Prague today as it was a thousand years ago.
The Old Town Square (Staroměstské Náměstí) was once the thriving city center of Prague. Today it remains just as busy, and is the location of many must-see Prague attractions. The square is an excellent starting point for your Prague visit as it allows you to get a sense of the city’s rich history, purchase maps and information guides and grab a coffee at one of the square’s outdoor dining establishments.Soak up the atmosphere of traditional Europe as you walk between the pastel-colored shops and restaurants that surround the square. The vibrant square is always filled with street performers, artists and tour guides.Take in the 360-degree view of some of Prague’s most iconic architectural styles from the center of the square or the lookout towers. The Gothic Týn Church, the baroque St. Nicholas Church and the medieval Astronomical Clock are the big draws. Be sure to be in the square on the hour to see the spectacle of its famous clock on the Old Town Hall. The polished cobbled surface of the square has seen centuries of foot traffic and a gripping history. Find the 27 white crosses marked in the stones, each a memorial to a martyr beheaded following the Battle of White Mountain. Look up at the bronze statue of Jan Hus and learn about this local preacher who was excommunicated by the pope and burnt at the stake in 1415. He had a message that still resonates today: “Love each other and wish the truth to everyone.” His death triggered an uprising, the Hussite Wars. Pick up some gifts or local produce at the square’s seasonal markets. The most iconic of these are the Christmas and Easter markets, held for three weeks in the lead-up to both holidays.Old Town Square is centrally located and easily reached by tram, metro or on foot from most other historic attractions in Prague. Because the area is very busy, guard your possessions as pickpockets are known to operate in the area.
Prague Astronomical Clock - The hourly show put on by this early 15th-century masterpiece on the Old Town Hall is a must-see event that draws the crowds.
Charles Bridge - This iconic structure with sculptures spans the Vltava River and connects the historic Lesser Town on the west bank with the Old Town on the east bank.
Wenceslas Square - Prague’s busiest boulevard is great for both shopping and nightlife and has a history as a gathering point for local uprisings and celebrations.
Old Jewish Cemetery - Visit the this historic collection of gravestones and learn about the plight of the Jewish people of Prague.
Dancing House - This modern building, which houses a bar and restaurant, stands out from Prague’s traditional cityscape.
Prague Castle - Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at this medieval fortified complex that is now the seat of the President of the Czech Republic and also houses the huge St. Vitus Cathedral.
Powder Tower - Walk beneath this imposing structure and imagine life during the time when Prague was a walled city.
Czech National Museum - Discover Czech ethnographical and musical history, art exhibits and African and Asian culture at this series of museums spread across Prague’s city center.
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