Prague for visitors

Top 10 monuments of Prague

Charles Bridge
Description
Prague's 13th century Charles Bridge throngs with people, but is none-the-less a top priority on the list of Prague attractions to visit. Try early morning for a less crowded walk, or go at night for a truly romantic stroll, with fairytale views of the Prague skyline, dominated by magnificent Prague Castle.
King Charles IV's favourite architect and builder, Peter Parler, built the present day Charles Bridge. The initial idea was to build a functional construction for knight tournaments, and for many years the only decoration on the bridge was a simple crucifix. Later, the Catholic desire for ornamentation resulted in 30 statues being erected between 1600 and 1800. Today, most of the statues are copies, as various floods and catastrophes over the centuries have damaged the originals. There are now 75 statues, and perhaps the most interesting, as well as the oldest, is that of John of Nepomuk (8th from the right as you cross towards Prague Castle).
Address
Praha 1 - Staré Mesto;
Praha 1 - Malá Strana

Church of Our Lady of Victory
Description
Although recognised as being the first Baroque Church in Prague, St Mary's is more famously known for its wax effigy of the baby Jesus - known as the Bambino de Praga. The statue, which was brought to the city from Spain during the 15th century by Mariá Manriquez de Lara is believed by many to be endowed with divine powers, hence the steady stream of pilgrims that visit here throughout the year. Built between 1611 and 1615 by the German Lutherans to a design by G. M. Filippi, it was later given by Emperor Ferdinand II (as part of the Habsburg's victory celebrations at White Mountain) to an Order of Carmelite monks who promptly set about converting it into an abbey - also simultaneously renaming it as the Church of St. Mary the Victorious. The church, which features a beautiful carved wooden altar, remained in possession of the Carmelites until 1784 when, following the dissolution of the monastery, it became a parish church.
Address
Karmelitská 9
Praha 1 - Malá Strana
118 00
E-mail: mail@pragjesu.info
Web: http://www.pragjesu.info
Opening hours
January - December | 8.30 - 19 | Monday - Saturday

Church of St. Peter and Paul (Vysehrad)
Description
Ancient legends situate the original seat of the Czech princes - the legendary Princess Libuse and the first Przemyslides - on the hill. In fact, however, this fort had not been founded until the Prague Castle was already in existence, since it dates back to the mid-10th century. In the latter half of the 11th and in the 12th century Vysehrad used to be the Przemyslides princes' main residence which brought about a generous building activity within its walls. Among noteworthy sight there are the precious romanesque rotunda of St. Martin (interior only for groups announced in advance), the gothic church of St. Peter and Paul (in the late 19th century rebuilt in the neogothic style), the Vysehrad cemetery used as a burial site of the Czech outstanding personalilties since 1869 with a collective tomb called Slavin, the underground casemates housing the originals of several baroque statues from the Charles Bridge. The Vysehrad site is open the whole day.
Address
V Pevnosti 159/5b
Praha 2 - Vysehrad
128 00
E-mail: info@praha-vysehrad.cz
Web: http://www.praha-vysehrad.cz
Opening hours
April - October | 9.30 - 18 | daily
November - March | 9.30 - 17 | daily

Loreta
The beautiful Loreta is an important pilgrimage site commissioned by Baroness Beligna Katherina von Lobkowicz in 1626. After completion, Loreta was maintained by the Capuchins, an order connected with the St. Francis of Assisi's Brotherhood.
This historical building was created to promote the legend of Santa Casa, a copy of the house believed to be the Virgin Mary's. This Santa Casa copy, complete with original fresco pieces and the statue of Our Lady of Loreta, sits in a lovely courtyard surrounded by chapel-lined arcades.
Not to be missed is the 'Prague Sun' and its 6000 plus diamonds in the Treasury, and the 27-bell carillon playing on the hour in the entrance.
Loretánské nám. 7/100
Praha 1 - Hradcany
118 00
E-mail: loreta@kapucini.cz
Web: http://www.loreta.cz
Opening hours
January - December | 9 - 16.30 | Tuesday - Sunday

Old Town Hall Tower
Established 1338 as the seat of the Old Town authorities. The oldest gothic part of the complex which includes a tower and an oriel chapel is richly decorated with coats of arms. It was built in the latter half of the 14th century. In the top part of the astronomical clock (early 15th century) the 12 apostles appear every hour between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m The bottom part was supplemented with a round calendarium including the signs of the zodiac painted by Josef Manes (1865). The eastern pseudo-gothic wing of the Town Hall was destroyed on May 8, 1945, and has not been rebuilt yet.
Praha 1 - Staré Mesto
April - October | 11 - 18 | Monday
| 9 - 18 | Tuesday - Sunday
November - March | 11 - 17 | Monday
| 9 - 17 | Tuesday - Sunday

Old-New Synagogue
Considered to be the most historic site in Josefov - and the spiritual centre for Prague's Jewish Community - the synagogue, which dates from the 13th century, is one the few remaining medieval buildings in the Quarter. Still used for prayer today, the Gothic interior features an ornate barrel-vaulted vestibule, while the structure of the main hall - crowned by an impressive tympanum over the north portal - is influenced by the 12 tribes of Israel i.e. there are 12 carved vine leaves, 12 windows etc.
Note: when entering the hall, male visitors are asked to cover their heads - bandanas, baseball caps etc. are okay, but a yarmulka can also be purchased with your ticket.
Cervená 2
Praha 1 - Staré Mesto/Josefov
April - October | 9.30 - 18 | Sunday - Friday
November - March | 9.30 - 17 | Sunday - Thursday

Petrin View Tower
Reduced copy of the Eiffel Tower (60 m high) built in 1891 on the occasion of the Jubilee Exhibition. 299 steps lead up to the top platform. In March 2002 the Tower was opened again to the public after a wide reconstruction.
Petrínské sady
Praha 1 - Malá Strana
April, September | 10 - 19 | daily
May - August | 10 - 22 | daily
October - 5. November | 10 - 18 | daily
November - March | 10 - 17 | Saturday, Sunday

Powder Tower
Powder Tower used to serve as a monumental entrance to the Old Town built by Matej Rejsek in the gothic style in 1475. Once it served as a gunpowder depot. In the late 19th century it was rebuilt by J. Mocker.
Permanent exhibition:
Prague Towers
Na Príkope
Praha 1 - Staré Mesto
2. May - October | 10 - 18 | daily

Prague Castle
The Prague Castle complex, seat of Czech kings throughout the ages, includes the Gothic Saint Vitus Cathedral (the most recognised landmark in Prague), several palaces, a monastery, viewing towers, St. George's Basilica and the enchanting Golden Lane.
Prague Castle was established in the 9th century. A Romanesque palace was erected during the 12th century, and in the 14th century, under the reign of Charles IV, it was rebuilt to Gothic style. A further reconstruction of the Royal Palace then took place under the Jagellons at the end of the 15th century. The builder, Benedikt Rejt, also added the now famous Vladislav Hall.
As a result of a big fire in 1541, Prague Castle underwent further works during the 16th century. The Spanish Hall was added during the reign of Rudolf II and final alterations were made by Empress Maria Theresa, under the direction of the celebrated architect M. Pacassi.
Today, Prague Castle is the seat of the President of the Czech Republic, and serves as the historical and political centre of both city and state.
Prazský hrad
Praha 1 - Hradcany
E-mail: tourist.info@hrad.cz
Web: http://www.hrad.cz
The Prague Castle sights | |
April - October | 9 - 17 | daily
November - March | 9 - 16 | daily
The Prague Castle premises | |
April - October | 5 - 24 | daily
November - March | 6 - 23 | daily
Changing of the Guards at the Castle gates every hour starting at 5.00 - 24.00,or 6.00 - 23.00,at noon with fanfares and banner exchange

St. Nicholas Church (LT)
Not to be confused with the church standing on the Old Town Square (Staré Město), St Nicholas' of Malá Strana is a truly grandiose affair, not only boasting one the finest cupolas in town, but a lovely façade and lavish, cherub-laden interior.
One of the most valuable buildings of the "Prague Baroque" period with a dominant dome and the belfry (architects K. Dienzenhofer, K. I. Dienzenhofer, A. Lurago, 1704 - 1756). Also the inside decoration of the church is a specimen of the high baroque style (J. L. Kracker, K. Skreta). W. A. Mozart played the organ here during his stay in Prague.
Malostranské nám. 25
E-mail: info@psalterium.cz
Web: http://www.psalterium.cz
March - October | 9 - 17 | daily
November - February | 9 - 16 | daily

+ 45 monuments of Prague

Bertramka
In 1787, shortly before the premiere of Don Giovanni at the Estates Theatre in Prague, it was to Bertramka that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart withdrew to finish the last parts of his opera in peace. Originally a vineyard estate outside the walls of the city, Bertramka was the romantic summer residence of his friends, the Dušeks, a couple of leading Czech musicians. This fine setting inspired Mozart to compose the concert aria and scene for soprano Bella mia fiamma, addio, which he dedicated to his hostess, the outstanding singer Josefína Dušková.
Today, as Prague has grown, Bertramka borders on the city centre. The part of the villa that served as the living quarters is now a museum, featuring a permanent exhibition on W.A. Mozart and the Dušeks. Remarkably, Bertramka is preserved in more or less the same state as Mozart knew it.
From April to September Bertramka also presents a full programme of classical concerts. The largest of the residential salons of the villa, where music was played during Mozart's life, is the venue for regular chamber music concerts. Parts of the wall paintings in the music room were probably commissioned by Madame Dušková herself, as she was a great lover and collector of art. The heritage of the music room and close contact with the musicians create an exceptional concert atmosphere.
In the summer season, the concerts move to the beautiful natural environment of the garden.
Mozartova 169
Praha 5 - Smíchov
E-mail: mozart@bertramka.cz
Web: http://www.bertramka.com
April - October | 9 - 18 | daily
November - March | 9.30 - 16 | daily

Bethlehem Chapel
Bethlehem Chapel is actually a modern reconstruction (1950-52) of the church built in the 14th century by the reformist preacher Milíč of Kroměříž. At the time, Prague's Catholic authorities had agreed to a small chapel on the site where mass could be conducted in Czech. However, upon completion, the Church was alarmed to find that a much larger 3000-capacity building, with a focus on the pulpit rather than the altar had been erected.
Betlémské námestí 4/255
Praha 1 - Staré Mesto
E-mail: betlem@suz.cvut.cz, bet.kaple@tiscali.cz
Web: http://www.studenthostel.cz
April - October | 10 - 18.30 | Tuesday - Sunday
November - March | 10 - 17.30 | Tuesday - Sunday

Black Madonna House
The House of the Black Madonna is beautiful example of Cubist architecture from 1911-12. The sculpture on the corner of the building, on its upper story, is a black virgin from the 17th century.
Permanent exhibition:
Czech cubism (painting, sculpture, applied art, architecture) is located in the most prominent cubistic building of Prague built by the architect J. Gocár in the early 20th century.
Ovocný trh 19
E-mail: jungwirthova@ngprague
Web: http://www.ngprague.cz
January - December | 10 - 18 | Tuesday - Sunday
Free entry on first Wednesdays of the month (15 - 20)

Brevnov Monastery
Although Břevnov is perhaps best known for Alois Dryák's sprawling 150,000-seater Spartakiáda Stadium, the district's (now fully restored) Benedictine monastery is actually the oldest in Bohemia. Housing also the Church of St. Margaret (sv. Markéty), the site dates back to 993 AD and the reign of Boleslav II, although both church and monastery were rebuilt by the father/son partnership of Christoph and Kilián Ignaz Dientzenhofer in the early 18th century. Particularly impressive is the exterior of the church, resplendent with Romanesque columns running along its entire length. Also just behind is the pretty Vojteska summer pavilion, where St. Adalbertus met with Boleslav II to found the monastery.
Markétská 1/28
Praha 6 - Brevnov
E-mail: klaster@brevnov.cz
Web: http://www.brevnov.cz
April - October | * 10, 14, 16 | Saturday, Sunday
November - March | * 10, 14 | Saturday, Sunday

Carolinum
Charles University - central Europe's oldest university, founded by Charles IV in 1348 - took as its original home the so-called Rothlow House at Zelezna 9. After the Battle of the White Mountain, the building, called the Karolinum, was handed over to the Jesuits, who gave it a Baroque working-over. When they were booted out in 1773 the university took it back.. WW II damage led to remodelling and expansion.
Ovocný trh 3 - 5
E-mail: tiskovy.mluvci@cuni.cz
Web: http://www.cuni.cz

Church of Our Lady before Tyn
Surely one of the most impressive gothic sacral buildings in Prague the construction of which lasted from the mid-14th to the early 16th century. In the late 17th century the church interior was rebuilt in the baroque style. Its interesting decorations include valuable altar paintings by Karel Skreta and a tombstone of the astronomer Tycho de Brahe. At present renovation of a part of the interior is in progress.
Address Staromestské nám. 604
E-mail: dkc@cmail.cz
Web: http://tynska.farnost.cz

Daliborka Tower
As a part of the castle fortification, Daliborka is a fortification tower built in 1496 by Benedict Rejt. Until 1781 it served as a prison. It was given its name after the first prisoner Dalibor of Kozojedy. It was Dalibor´s story which was put to music by Bedrich Smetana in his opera Dalibor (1868).
Prazský hrad
Praha 1 - Hradcany
November - March | 9 - 16 | daily

Dancing Building (Ginger & Fred)
Affectionately called "Fred and Ginger" or the "Dancing Building" by its supporters, this quirky construction overlooking the Vltava remains one of Prague's most controversial contemporary structures. It's a striking piece of architecture, built with a curvy corner cylinder of swirling and articulated glass that resembles a flared skirt with a pinched waist. Purists see the design primarily as "advertecture" for its creators, Los Angeles-based Frank O. Gehry & Associates, and their Czech partner Vladimir Milunič. And many locals differ as to whether the dynamic design is appropriate to the relatively staid turn-of-the-century apartment buildings with which it shares the block. Despite the building's nickname, Gehry admits he wasn't thinking of Fred and Ginger: "I wasn't intending to make a lady. We wanted to be a good neighbor; the next-door neighbor had a balcony with a view of the Castle and when I pinched in the tower it looked like a woman, like a woman's dress." Inside are offices, shops, and the top-of-the-line Le Perle de Prague restaurant.
Rašínovo nábřeží 80
Praha 2

Estates Theatre
The Estates Theatre is one of the most beautiful historical theatres in Europe. It has a unique charm. One can almost feel the spiritual presence of the supremely talented musicians, directors, artists, poets and playwrights who have passed through it's doors; either to perform on stage or to take their seats in the audience.
Theatre was opened in 1783 as the Nostic Theatre. The premiere of Mozart's opera Don Giovanni was given here on October 29, 1787. From 1799 the theatre belonged to the Czech Estates. On December 21, 1834, the song "Kde domov muj" (Where is my home) which later became the Czech national anthem was presentated on this stage for the first time. Today drama, opera and ballet are performed here.
Ovocný trh 1
E-mail: ntprague@narodni-divadlo.cz

Fata Morgana (Prague Botanical Garden)
Fata Morgana, the tropical greenhouse is placed off the main open air expositions of the botanical garden, lying on the southern sunny side of the Trojan hillside. A modern construction with unusual “S” shaped ground plan is embedded into rocky terrain. Natural breakup of the rocky surface is artfully exploited for terraced planting of displayed vegetation. This remarkable shape and unique solution for exhibition area is covering approximately 1750 sq. metres and is considered to be unparalleled in Europe.
Trojska 211
Praha 7 - Troja
E-mail: info@botanicka.cz
Web: http://www.botanicka.cz
April | 9 - 18 | Tuesday - Sunday
May – September | 9 - 19 | Tuesday - Sunday
October | 9 - 17 | Tuesday - Sunday
November – March | 9 - 16 | Tuesday - Sunday
Fata Morgana Entrance fee:
KČ 90,- adult
KČ 45,- students (ISIC and TEACHER card), children from 6 to 15 years
KČ 250,- family fee (2 adults and 2 children 6 till 15)
Entrance free for child under 6, senior citizens, disabled persons with assistant

Franz Kafka Centrum
The Franz Kafka Society is a non-governmental organization. Founded shortly after November 1989, it has now about 800 members around the world. The society´s main aim is to promote the revival of the traditions that gave birth to the unique phenomenon of Prague´s German literature and to restore the general awareness of cultural plurality in the Central European region (where Czechs, Germans, and Jews lived side by side for centuries) and its importance for tolerance, humanism, and democracy.
Maiselova 15
Praha 1 - Staré Město
E-mail: f.kafka.soc@ecn.cz
Web: http://www.franzkafka-soc.cz

Franz Kafka Museum
The life and work of F.Kafka in documents - photographs, manuscripts, diaries, correspondence and first editions of Kafka's works, audio-visual programs.
Cihelná 2b
E-mail: info@kafkamuseum.cz
Web: http://www.kafkamuseum.cz
January - December | 10 - 18 | daily

Franz Kafka Restaurant
The "Franz Kafka Restaurant" is situated in the house where on July 3, 1883 the most famous Prague writer of Jewish origin was born - Franz kafka.
Namesti Franze Kafky 3
Praha 1 - Staré Město
E-mail: rest@kafkafranz.cz
Web: http://www.kafkafranz.cz/en.html

Golden Lane
Golden Lane consist of small houses built in the gothic fortification, the 16th century homes of castle riflemen and craftsmen. In 1916 - 1917 Franz Kafka used to work in No. 22.
Zlatá ulicka
Web: http://www.hrad.cz
Free entry after 16(17)

House of Artist - Rudolfinum
The Rudolfinum Concert Hall & Exhibition Centre hosts a varied programme of classical music and all kinds of exhibitions.
Built between 1876-1884, the Rudolfinum was employed as the state parliament between wars. Today it is used for its original purpose of showing concerts and art exhibitions. Regular concerts are played by the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, which has its domicile here. The large Dvorák Hall is used for major recitals, while soloist vocal and instrumentals can be heard in the smaller Suk Hall.
Alsovo nábrezí 79/12
E-mail: info@cfmail.cz
Web: http://www.czechphilharmonic.cz

Industrial palace
Industrial Palace was originally built as a pavilion for the Jubilee Exhibition in 1891, it represents the most valuable art-nouveau historical monuments in Prague. The steel arch structure is 238 meters long with 51 metres high tower in the middle. The palace is accessible during exhibitions, trade fairs and other events.
Výstaviste
Praha 7 - Holesovice

Jubilee Synagogue
The synagogue was built in combination of Moorish and Art Nouveau styles in 1906 to replace three other synagogues. The religious services proceed until today.
Jeruzalémská 1310/7
Praha 1 - Nové Mesto
23. April - 31. October | 13 - 17 | Sunday - Friday

Klaus Synagogue
Baroque building near the cemetary entrance.
Permanent exhibition:
Jewish customs and traditions.
U Starého hrbitova 1
Praha 1 - Staré Mesto/Josefov
E-mail: zmp@ecn.cz
Web: http://www.jewishmuseum.cz
29. October - 24. March | 9 - 16.30 | Sunday - Friday
26. March - 27. October | 9 - 18 | Sunday - Friday

Lesser Town Bridge Towers
The smaller tower - the romanesque one, a relic of the Judita's Bridge, was constructed in the 12th century. The higher one is 200 years younger (1464) and its late gothis architecture draws upon the Parler's Old Town Bridge Tower.
From the history of Charles bridge.
Web: http://www.pis.cz
April - November | 10 - 18 | daily

Maisel Synagogue
The neo-Gothic synagogue replaced a Renaissance original built by Maisel and destroyed by fire.
History of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia from the beginning of colonization till the beginning of emancipation.
Maiselova 8 - 10
Praha 1 - Staré Mesto/Josefov
E-mail: zmp@ecn.cz
Web: http://www.jewishmuseum.cz
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29. October - 24. March | 9 - 16.30 | Sunday - Friday
26. March - 27. October | 9 - 18 | Sunday - Friday

Metronom
The Metronome is a giant, functional metronome located overlooking the Vltava River and the city center of Prague. It was erected in 1991 on the former location of an enormous monument to former Soviet leader Josef Stalin (the monument was destroyed in 1962). The 75 foot-tall Metronome is now mostly a scenic vista and a meeting place for young people. It was designed by international artist Vratislav Novak.
Park Letna
Praha 7

Monastery "Na Slovanech" (Emmaus)
This monastery was founded in 1347, in times of Charles IV. Its two steeples are a symbol of the New Town. They are the center of the Slavonic liturgy. The temple was severely damaged during the second World War in 1945, but soon after it was restored.
Vysehradská 49/320
Praha 2 - Nové Mesto
E-mail: admin@emauzy.cz
Web: http://www.emauzy.cz
January - December | 9 - 16 | Monday - Friday

Municipal House
The Municipal House was built in 1906-1912. In 28th October 1918 the independence of Czechoslovakia was proclaimed from here. Nowadays it is the center of the cultural and social life in Prague. And many conferences, balls and concerts are held in its rich decorated rooms.
Námestí Republiky 5
E-mail: info@obecni-dum.cz
Web: http://www.obecnidum.cz
January - December | 10 - 18 | daily

National Museum
The National Museum dominates the 'Václavské Námestí' (Wenceslas Square), a 750 meter long boulevard (at our back). In this neo-Renaissance building constructed in 1885-1890 there’s an interesting Czech history museum. The statue in front of the Museum is the St Wenceslas Memorial (from 1912).
Permanent exhibitions:
Primeval history of Bohemia, Moravia and Slovakia * Mineralogical and petrological collections * Zoological collections * Palaeontological collection * Anthropological collection
Václavské námestí 68
Praha 1 - Nové Mesto
E-mail: nm@nm.cz
Web: http://www.nm.cz
May - September | 10 - 18 | daily
October - April | 9 - 17 | daily

National Theather
A neo-renaissance building, originally constructed in 1868-81, the National Theatre had to be reconstructed in 1883, after a fire destroyed much of it's interior. The inner and outer design was completed by the artists of the National Theatre generation; M. Ales, F. Zenisek, V. Hynais, J. V. Myslbek, etc. The National Theatre is one of the most important Czech cultural institutions, with a rich artistic tradition.
E-mail: ntprague@narodni-divadlo.cz, info@narodni-divadlo.cz
Web: http://www.narodni-divadlo.cz

New Jewish Cementery
The cemetery, where the writer Franz Kafka is buried.
Izraelská 1
Praha 3 - Zizkov
April - September | 9 - 16.30 | Sunday - Friday
October - March | 9 - 15.30 | Sunday - Friday

New Town Hall
Complex of buildings in gothic style from the late 14th and early 15th centuries, later in the 16th centuryrebuilt in the renaissance style. It contains a tower with Our Lady Chapel, two gothic halls with ribbed vaults and a renaissance hall. During 1377 - 1784 the seat of the New Town authorities. On 30th July, 1419, the scene of the defenestration of the Catholic aldermen by Prague Hussites which marked the begining of the Hussite revolution.
Karlovo nám. 23
E-mail: nradnice@seznam.cz
Web: http://www.praha2.cz
May - September | 10 - 18 | Tuesday - Sunday

Old Jewish Cementery
The cemetery, which dates from the early 15th century, is the second oldest Jewish burial site in Europe (and the most popular monument in the Quarter). Some 12,000 tombstones are located here, each crammed into a tiny space, with the oldest dating back to 1439. Indeed, because it was forbidden to enlarge the burial ground beyond the walled ghetto, the Jews were forced to bury their dead on top of each other - meaning that an estimated 100,000 bodies lie here. Among the cemetery's distinguished stones are those of Mordecai Maisel (d. 1601), Rabbi Löw Ben Bezalel (d. 1609) and David Oppenheimer (d. 1736).
Siroká 3
Web: http://www.jewishmuseum.cz
29. October - 24. March | 9 - 16.30 | Sunday - Friday
26. March - 27. October | 9 - 18 | Sunday - Friday

Old Town Bridge Tower
The Old Town Bridge Tower is one of the most beautiful Gothic towers in Europe and heralds the entrance to the Old Town from Charles Bridge. This blackened, aged gate tower, completed in 1380, is part of Prague's old fortification system. Although partially damaged by the failed attempt of marauding Swedes to occupy the Old Town in 1648, sculptures by Peter Parler (whose genius can also be seen in St Vitus Cathedral) survive. Climb the Old Town Bridge Tower for a bird's-eye view of Charles Bridge, the various attractions of the Vltava River, Prague Castle and the Old Town.
"Charles Bridge - ray through centuries" - the picture about the astrological and astronomic relations of the origins of Charles bridge.
March | 10 - 18 | daily
April - May, October | 10 - 19 | daily
June - September | 10 - 22 | daily
November - February | 10 - 17 | daily

Old Town Square
The Old Town Square (Staromestske Namesti), with it's ancient buildings and magnificent churches, is one of the most beautiful historical sights in Europe. Sit back and soak up the atmosphere over a coffee at one of the many pavement cafés surrounding the square. Dating back to the late 12th century, the Old Town Square started it's life as the central marketplace for Prague. Over the next few centuries, many buildings of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic styles were erected around the market, each bringing with them stories of wealthy merchants and intrigue. The most notable sights in Prague's Old Town Square are the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, the Astronomical Clock & Old Town Hall Tower and the stunning St. Nicolas Church.

Palatial Gardens
Palatial gardens consists of these 5 gardens: Ledebur Garden, Small and Great Palffy Gardens, Kolowrat and Small Fürstenberk Gardens.
All the gardens are situated on the southern slopes below the Prague castle.
In this place the ramparts were originally situated but at the beginning of the16th century this defensive system has lost its primary importance, the ramparts were then demolished and the plots were sold. Subsequently the vineyards and Renaissance gardens of the Italian style arose here.
- After the Swedish devastation in 1648 the gardens were renovated, the Renaissance sternness was replaced by the Baroque adaptation - the balustrade terraces with sculptures, the monumental staircases, the fountains and jets. There are beautiful views of Malá Strana (the Lesser Town) and city-panorama from the terraces.
Valdstejnské námestí 3
E-mail: question@palacovezahrady.cz, zelenkova@palacovezahrady.cz
Web: http://www.palacovezahrady.cz

Pinkas Synagogue
So legend has it, Rabbi Pinkas founded this synagogue after a dead monkey - owned by a local goldsmith - was thrown through his window. Fortunately, as is often the case with deceased primates, it had swallowed a large quantity of gold coins, thus giving Pinkas a fair old booty for the works.
A memorial to 77 297 victims of the Nazi holocaust. Drawings of childern from Terezin concentration camp.
Siroká ulice 3
E-mail: zmp@ecn.cz

Queen Anna's Summerhouse
Perhaps the most remarkable Renaissance building in Prague. The palace was designed by Paolo della Stella and built between 1535-1537 but not finished until 1557-63 by architect B. Wohlmut. The famous Singing Fountain which makes sound resembling music, is located in the garden and was designed and cast by Tomas Jaros in 1564-68.
Open only on the occasion of exhibitions.
Mariánské hradby
Web: http://www.hrad.cz

Schwanzenberg Palace
As one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Prague, the Schwarzenberg Palace today displays a permanent exhibition portraying the military history of Bohemia and Moravia until the end of the First World War (see also museums). The beautiful sgraffito illustrations that adorn the façade of the building are matched only the impressive rococo Archbishop's Palace opposite. Painstakingly restored during the 1950s, the Šchwarzenburg's interior was also given a much needed makeover during 2001.
Hradcanské námestí 2
Hradcany
Prague 1
January - December | 10 - 18 | Tuesday - Sunday

Spanish Synagogue
Named after its Moorish interior.
History of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia since their emancipation until now.
Dusní 12/Vezenská 1
Web: http://www.jewishmuseum.cz, http://www.bejt-praha.cz

St. Nicholas Church (OT)
The stunning St. Nicholas Church, designed by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, was completed in 1735. But, it wasn't until 1901, when the Krenn House was demolished, that the Baroque façade became visible from the rest of the Old Town Square. Nowadays, the beautiful white façade of the church, decorated with sculptures by Antonín Braun, simply gleams in the corner of the square, hit by the sun during the day and lit by strong white lights at night. The interior design of the church was inspired by the chapel of St. Louis-des-invalides in Paris.
Classical concerts are held here throughout the year.
Staromestské námestí 27a
E-mail: mikulas@ccsh.cz
Web: http://www.husiti.cz/ccshpd/obce_seznam.htm, http://www.svmikulas.cz

St. Vitus Cathedral
This Gothic cathedral, the spiritual symbol of the Czech state, was founded by Jan Lucembursky (John of Luxembourg) and his sons Karel and Jan Jindrich. It took nearly six centuries to build. Begun in 1344 by Mathias Arras and Petr Parler upon the site of a 10th century rotunda, the final phase of construction only ended during 1873-1929. The cathedral contains underground tombs of Czech kings.
Prazský hrad - III. nádvorí

Stadium Evzena Rosickeho
Stadium Evzena Rosickeho is temporary stadium of SK Slavia Praha.
Capacity: 19.032
SK Slavia Praha
Established in 1892.
Club colours are white and red.
The greatest successes in post-war period Slavia achieved in the last ten years - in 1996 the red-whites won their fourteenth Czech title and the first title after long 49 years. In 1996 Slavia qualified to the UEFA Cup semi-final, and in 1997 to the UEFA Cup Winner´s Cup quarter-finals and in 1999 to UEFA Cup quarter-finals. Slavia won the Czech National Cup in 1997, 1999 and in 2002 when it beat its traditional rivals of Sparta Prague in final match. In the seasons 2002 – 2003 and 2004 – 2005 Slavia Prague became Czech league vice-champion. Many Slavia footballers continued with their careers in the famous foreign clubs. To say a few examples, we should name Vladimir Smicer, who helped Liverpool FC to win the Champions League title in 2005 by scoring a magnificent goal and among the others Patrik Berger (Aston Villa), Pavel Kuka (1.FC Kaiserslautern), Radek Bejbl (Atlético Madrid, Racing Lens, Rapid Vienna) or Radek Černý (Tottenham Hotspur).
Milady Horákové 1066/98
170 82 Praha 7 - Letná
Web: http://www.sparta.cz/en/

Strahov Monastery
Founded in 1140 by Prince Vladislav II, the giant white Strahov Monastery looks down from its Petrin Hill vantage point over the busiest areas of Mala Strana. This tranquil setting was established for the Premonstratensians, followers of the teachings of St Augustine. Destroyed by fire in 1258, it was rebuilt in Gothic style, with later Baroque additions. The highlight of a visit to Strahov, despite it's attractive location and meditative quality, is its famous library, comprised of one of the oldest monastic collections in the country. Located in the theological and philosophical halls, it is over 800 years old, and despite being ransacked by invading armies, it still holds over 16,000 books.
Strahovské nádvorí 1/132
January - December | 9 - 12 and 13 - 17 | daily

Summerhouse Hvězda
The Summer Hvězda (Star) Pavilion lies below Bílá Hora (White Mountain) connected to the Czech history due to the fact that in 1620 it was the sce of the tragic battle which resulted in the loss of the national and state independence of the Czech nation for a period of almost three hundred years. There is the garden founded in 1534 and Royal Summer Palace in 1555 by Archduke Ferdinand of Tyrol.
Praha 6 - Liboc 25 c
May - September | 10 - 18 | Tuesday - Sunday

Television Tower Zizkov
Reminiscent of an old Apollo-Saturn 5 rocket gantry, the Žižkov Tower (affectionately known as the 'Prague prick' by locals) transmits TV, communication and meteorological signals across the city. In fact, the similarity is such that you half expect a crew of astronauts (or should that be cosmonauts) to appear at any moment! Completed in 1989, but planned during the Communist era, the structure stands to a height of 216m, with a public observation area approximately 100 metres above ground.
Mahlerovy sady 1
Praha 3 - Zizkov
E-mail: info@tower.cz
Web: http://www.tower.cz
January - December | 10 - 23 | daily

Toyota Arena
Toyota arena is stadium of AC Sparta Praha
Capacity: 20.854
AC Sparta Praha
Established in 1893.
Club colours are blue, yellow and red.
For a long time now, AC Sparta Praha has been the most outstanding and, on the playing field, the most successful club in Czech football. There have been many successes in both domestic and international competitions throughout its more than 110-year history. In the recent history of the Czech Republic, Sparta has clearly been dominant in the domestic league (8 times Champions of the Czech league) and has regularly represented Czech football in UEFA competitions (Champions League and UEFA Cup), where it has also recorded many successes. In 2004/2005 seson Sparta achieved 33rd title of the Czech Champions. The owner of the the club is financial group J&T.
Milady Horákové 1066/98
170 82 Praha 7 - Letná
Web: http://www.sparta.cz/en/

Troja Castle
Built as a summer palace for Count Václav Vojtìch Šternberg to a design by the celebrated Burgundian architect Jean-Baptiste Mathey, the Troja Chateau is a grandiose 17th century affair, complete with French gardens, Baroque sculptures, splendid vaulted ceilings and a wonderfully detailed (illusionist) mural in its Grand Hall.
Czech art of the 19th century with the evolution of Czech painting during 19 century, response to contemporary European art and its approach to Czech history and life of the capital city of Prague. Czech sculpture (works from 1900 - 1970).
U Trojského zámku 1
Praha 7 - Troja
E-mail: troja-ghmp@volny.cz
Web: http://www.citygalleryprague.cz
April - October | 10 - 18 | Tuesday - Sunday
November - March | 10 - 17 | Saturday, Sunday

Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is one of the most popular places to stay in Prague. Tourists are attracted to the shopping, entertainment and nightlife all around, along with the fact that most of Prague's sights and attractions lie within easy walking distance. From Wenceslas Square it is possible to walk anywhere in central Prague.
The 750m long and 60m wide boulevard that makes up Wenceslas Square was laid out over 600 years ago during the reign of Charles IV and was originally used as the main Prague horse market. Over the years it has been a regular parade ground for all kinds of organisations and political parties. From anti-communist uprisings to winning the World Ice Hockey Championships, this is where Czech's come to protest and to celebrate. Wenceslas Square can comfortably hold up to 400,000 people!
At the top of Wenceslas Square, the statue of St. Wenceslas on his horse cuts a striking figure. This is good King Wenceslas (Vaclav), murdered over a thousand years ago by his brother, and now a Czech national hero.
Behind St. Wenceslas is the monumental National Museum. Nearby is the famous Prague State Opera.
In front of the statue of St. Wenceslas are two plaques in memory of those killed during the Communist period. One is dedicated to Jan Palach, a 20-year old student who set himself on fire in January 1969, in protest at the Soviet invasion.

Zoological Garden
There is so much to see in Prague that the causal visitor soon gets caught up in a heap of guide books and maps, and with so much of the old city accessible by foot, the tendency for blisters and weary legs is virtually inevitable. But don't let this put you off adding one day to your itinerary to visit the zoo. The experience of Prague Zoo, all but forgotten by most city guides, and shunned by almost all tourists, is nonetheless one that will stay with you for a long time. The zoo is 2-3 km's from the city centre, up in a river gorge, where the escarpment climbs steeply away from the river. She occupies a lush river valley, with the rocky cliff faces and rolling meadows at the summit, providing for a stunning vista.
The walk around the zoo is complex, and the map is less helpful than it might be, but there is a lot to see here. It's a traditional collection, of course, so expect to see penguins, sea lions, lions, tigers, and elephants, and you won't be disappointed. But you might not expect Markhor, and Ibex - superbly held in mountain enclosures that could scarcely be better designed for them. The grazers at the top of the hill are magnificent. And the views are spectacular.
U Trojského zámku 120/3
Praha 7 - Troja
E-mail: zoopraha@praha.cz
Web: http://www.zoopraha.cz/english/
March | 9 - 17 | daily
April, May, September, October | 9 - 18 | daily
June - August | 9 - 19 | daily
November - February | 9 - 16 | daily

City walks

The Royal road
The Royal Road goes across Old Town, over Charles Bridge, through Lesser Town and ends at Prague Castle.
More infromation at:
http://www.prague-spot.com/royal-road

Jewish Town and Franz Kafka walk
This city walk goes around synagogues, jewish museum and cementery to get to know the story of Prague Jewish community, at its time the biggest in Europe, let's try to understand why this nation has such a sad destiny on one hand, on the other very strong ability to rise up again and again... The walk includes also visit of Franz Kafka museum, F.K. society, his birthplace and grave.
FRANZ KAFKA – had lived between 3 different worlds – Germans, Jews, Czechs – moved many times in his short life, we'll show you the places, which influenced his writing and will describe the inspirative atmosphere of the city at the beginning of 20th century – shortly with his words: Prague doesn't let go, either of us. This old crone has claws...

Walk Through The New Town
Walk Through The New Town starts at National Museum, then it's going down by the river around Slavic Island entrancing the New Town, going throught it and ends at Church of saint Peter and Paul and the cementery next to it, where czech biggest personalities rests.

Historical districts of Prague

West

East

3D models of Monuments

Sv. Vitus

Tour

Camera

Model

Svaty Vit

Geometry

Hradcany

Hradcany bez chramu

Loreta

Lesser Town Bridge Tower

branaLT

Charles Bridge

Old Town Bridge Tower

branaOT

Old Town Hall

Orloj

Spanish Synagogue

synagoga

Church of Our Lady before Tyn

Kostel _P_Marie_pred_Tynem5

Powder Tower

Bethlemen Chapel

Metronom

National Theather

Vysehrad

Summerhouse Hvězda

Tourist Information Centres

Main Railway Station
You can get here:
All necessary information about Prague - culture, tourism, orientation in the town, transport, accommodation and catering, trade and services, nature, sports, addresses etc
Basic tourist information about the whole Czech Republic - historic monuments, castles, museums, galleries, exhibitions, trades, festivals
Accommodation in various price categories
summary of cultural events in Czech
Tickets for concerts, theatres and other cultural events
several kinds of Prague sight-seeing tours
Several kinds of Prague sight-seeing tours
One-day and half-day trips to the castles and other places of interest in the surroundings of Prague
Basic information brochures about Prague in foreign languages, various printed guide-books, plans of Prague etc.
Tourist tickets for city transport / travel cards.
Wilsonova 8
Phone:
E-mail: uts@pis.cz
Web: http://www.pis.cz, http://www.prague-info.cz
April - October | 9 - 19 | Monday - Friday
| 9 - 18 | Saturday, Sunday
November - March | 9 - 18 | Monday - Friday
| 9 - 17 | Saturday, Sunday

Lesser Town Tower
You can get here:
All necessary information about Prague - culture, tourism, orientation in the town, transport, accommodation and catering, trade and services, nature, sports, addresses etc
Basic tourist information about the whole Czech Republic - historic monuments, castles, museums, galleries, exhibitions, trades, festivals
Accommodation in various price categories
summary of cultural events in Czech
Tickets for concerts, theatres and other cultural events
several kinds of Prague sight-seeing tours
Several kinds of Prague sight-seeing tours
One-day and half-day trips to the castles and other places of interest in the surroundings of Prague
Basic information brochures about Prague in foreign languages, various printed guide-books, plans of Prague etc.
Tourist tickets for city transport / travel cards.
Phone:
E-mail: uts@pis.cz
Web: http://www.pis.cz, http://www.prague-info.cz
November - March | | closed

Old Town Hall
You can get here:
All necessary information about Prague - culture, tourism, orientation in the town, transport, accommodation and catering, trade and services, nature, sports, addresses etc
Basic tourist information about the whole Czech Republic - historic monuments, castles, museums, galleries, exhibitions, trades, festivals
Accommodation in various price categories
summary of cultural events in Czech
Tickets for concerts, theatres and other cultural events
several kinds of Prague sight-seeing tours
Several kinds of Prague sight-seeing tours
One-day and half-day trips to the castles and other places of interest in the surroundings of Prague
Basic information brochures about Prague in foreign languages, various printed guide-books, plans of Prague etc.
Tourist tickets for city transport / travel cards.
Staromestské námestí 1
Phone:
E-mail: uts@pis.cz
Web: http://www.pis.cz, http://www.prague-info.cz
April - October | 9 - 19 | Monday - Friday
| 9 - 18 | Saturday, Sunday
November - March | 9 - 18 | Monday - Friday

Metro (subway)

Line A

Skalka

Strašnická

Želivskeho

Flora

Jiřího z Poděbrad

Náměstí Míru

Můstek

Staroměstská

Malostranska

Dejvická

Hradčanská

Line B

Černý most

Rajská zahrada

Hloubětín

Kolbenova

Vysočanská

Českomoravská

Palmovka

Invalidovna

Křižíkova

Náměstí Republiky

Národní třída

Karlovo náměstí

Anděl

Smichovské nádraží

Radlická

Jinonická

Nové Butovice

Hůrka

Lužiny

Luka

Stodůlky

Zličín

Line C

Holešovice

Vltavská

Florenc

Hlavní nádraží

Muzeum

I. P. Pavlova

Vyšehrad

Pražského povstaní

Pankrac

Budějovická

Kačerov

Roztyly

Chodov

Opatov

Háje

Short Description
Number of lines: 3 - designated by letters A, B, C
Operation: daily from 5:00 to 24:00 hrs
Frequency of trains: 2 - 3 min. in peaks on working days
Network length in km: 50
Number of stations: 50 (3 interchange stations)
Number of cars in morning peaks: 345
Rolling stock: 504 vehicles
Passengers/year: 423 mil.
More detailed information at:
http://www.dp-praha.cz/en/

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