Contents
- 1 Prague New Town: A Short Introduction
- 2 Wenceslas Square Prague New Town (Václavské náměstí)
- 3 Church of Our Lady of the Snows Prague New Town (Kostel Panny Marie Snezne)
- 4 The Dancing House Prague New Town (Tančící dům)
- 5 Mucha Museum Prague New Town (Muchovo Muzeum)
- 6 State Opera New Town Prague (Státní Opera)
- 7 The National Museum – A Historical and Cultural Treasure (Národní muzeum)
- 8 Hotel Europa Prague New Town
- 9 Learn About Movies At NaFilM
- 10 Visit The Rudolf Jelínek Slivovitz Museum – A Taste of Tradition
- 11 Getting Around In Prague
- 12 How To Get To Prague Czech Republic
- 13 Prague New Town Map
Prague New Town: A Short Introduction
Prague New Town, founded in 1348 by Charles IV, was carefully planned and laid out around three large market-places: the Hay Market (Senovážné Square), the Cattle Market (Charles Square), and the Horse Market (Wenceslas Square). Twice as large as the Old Town, the area was mainly inhabited by tradesmen and craftsmen.
During the late 19th century, much of the New Town was demolished and completely redeveloped, giving it the appearance it has today. Continue reading about the top attractions in New Town Prague.
Wenceslas Square Prague New Town (Václavské náměstí)
Wenceslas Square has seen many key events in recent Czech history. It was here that the student Jan Palach burnt himself to death in 1969, and in November 1989 a protest rally in the square against police brutality led to the Velvet Revolution and the overthrow of Communism.
Wenceslas Square in Prague New Town is a vibrant area of hotels, apartments, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. It is one of Prague New Town’s Top attractions.
Shops And Nightlife
There are also banks and local and international shops. It’s the entertainment and nightlife center of Prague, and the main shopping and commercial district begins here.
Wenceslas Square is one of the two main squares in Prague, so it’s a popular place for visitors to stay (the Old Town Square is the other square). The square lies at the heart of the New Town. While there is plenty of history in this part of town for the visitors to immerse themselves in, it’s also effortless to walk from here to any part of the city center.
Church of Our Lady of the Snows Prague New Town (Kostel Panny Marie Snezne)
The Church of Our Lady of the Snows was founded by Charles IV to mark his coronation in 1347. The name refers to a 4th-century miracle in Rome, when the Virgin Mary appeared to the pope in a dream telling him to build a church to her on the spot where snow fell in August.
Charles’s church was to have been over 100 meters (330 feet) long, but was never completed.
Address | Jungmannovo namesti 18, Prague |
Telephone | +420 222 246 243 |
Metro stop | Můstek |
The Dancing House Prague New Town (Tančící dům)
As you walk along the Rašínovo nábřeží quay, you won’t necessarily be surprised by an unusual building: The Dancing House, conceived by Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry in 1996.
This ultramodern building was designed to be static and dynamic, masculine and feminine alike. The architects were inspired by famous Hollywood musical comedy dancers Fred Astaire, for the stone tower (on the right), and his partner Ginger Rogers, for the glass tower (on the left).
Fred And Ginger
While it doesn’t really “move”, the house reproduces the shapes of a dancing couple, Fred holding Ginger by the waist, while she softly and gracefully curls up against him. The office building is also home to a restaurant, Ginger & Fred, as well as a contemporary art gallery aimed at promoting young artists.
On the top floor, the panoramic terrace offers a 360° view of the entire city, where you can admire its other architectural wonders: Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, and the Petřín Hill.
Address | Jiráskovo náměstí 6, Prague |
Telephone | +420 732 675 202 |
Mucha Museum Prague New Town (Muchovo Muzeum)
The 18th century Kaunicky Palace is home to the first museum dedicated to this Czech master of Art Nouveau. A selection of more than 100 exhibits include paintings and drawings, sculptures, photographs and personal memorabilia.
The central courtyard becomes a terrace for the cafe in the summer, and there’s a museum shop offering gifts with Mucha motifs.
Address | Panská 7, Prague |
Telephone | +420 224 216 415 |
Metro stop | Můstek, Náměstí Republiky |
State Opera New Town Prague (Státní Opera)
The State Opera, also known as Státní Opera, is an opera house located in the heart of Prague New Town. Here are some key points about this remarkable cultural institution.
Historical Origins
The State Opera was originally established in the late 1880s by the German community in Prague. It was built in response to the construction of the Czech National Theatre and the need for a larger venue. Designed by architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, the Neo-Renaissance building features a Neo-Rococo interior décor.
Although it didn’t surpass the artistic expression of the National Theatre, the State Opera boasted a larger stage and higher seating capacity, which remains true to this day.
Architectural Beauty
With its spacious auditorium and exquisite neo-Rococo decoration, the State Opera is considered one of the most beautiful theatre buildings in Europe. Its grandeur and elegance make attending a performance here a truly memorable experience.
Practical Information
Address: Wilsonova 101/4, Prague
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 18:15 – 22:00
Phone Number: +420 224 901 448
The National Museum – A Historical and Cultural Treasure (Národní muzeum)
The National Museum (Czech: Národní muzeum) is a testament to the rich history, culture, and scientific heritage of the Czech Republic. Founded in 1818 by Kašpar Maria Šternberg, with significant contributions from historian František Palacký, this venerable institution has played a pivotal role in preserving and showcasing the nation’s treasures.
Founding and History
The National Museum’s origins trace back to the early 19th century. Its mission was clear: to systematically collect, prepare, and exhibit collections related to Czech history, culture, and people. Over the years, it has evolved into an intellectual hub, fostering research, education, and public engagement.
Address: Václavské náměstí 1700/68
Telephone: +420 224 497 111
Hotel Europa Prague New Town
Though a trifle shabby in places, The Hotel Europa is a wonderfully preserved reminder of the golden age of hotels. Its style is highly decorated Art Nouveau. The building is from 1903-1906. Not only has its splendid facade crowned with gilded nymphs survived, but many of the interiors on the ground floor are virtually intact.
This includes all the original bars, large mirrors, paneling, and light fittings.
Learn About Movies At NaFilM
Known for its rich cinematic traditions, visit Prague’s must-see NaFilM. Located in the historic Mozarteum building in the city center, the National Film Museum claims to be one of the first in the country to offer both an educational and interactive experience.
The family- and especially kid-friendly venue invites visitors to delve into the world of movie-making and learn all about the history of the ‘seventh art’.
Museum visitors can build their projection machines and screen a movie as it was done decades ago. They can also experience virtual reality effects and try out animation skills, editing, and designing sound and special effects. A two-hour program about Czech and world cinema classics accompanies the exhibition.
Visit The Rudolf Jelínek Slivovitz Museum – A Taste of Tradition
Located within the historic streets of Prague, the R. Jelínek Slivovitz Museum stands as a testament to Czech craftsmanship and heritage. As you step through its doors, you’re transported into a realm where fruit spirits come alive, and the aroma of Slivovitz fills the air.
The heart of the museum lies in its interactive exhibition. Here, visitors embark on a sensory journey through the distilling process. Every step is meticulously explained, from the carefully selected plums to the copper stills. You’ll discover how tradition and innovation intertwine, resulting in the smooth, golden elixir, of Slivovitz.
The Legends of Vizovice
Vizovice, a picturesque town in the Czech Republic, has a rich history of fruit spirits production. The museum pays homage to the families who have dedicated their lives to perfecting the craft. Their stories—passed down through generations—are etched into the museum’s walls. Imagine the whispers of old distillers as you explore the exhibits.
Tasting Bar – Where Flavors Dance
The stylish tasting bar beckons. Polished oak counters, dim lighting, and shelves adorned with crystal decanters create an inviting atmosphere. Here, you can sample various Slivovitz expressions with unique characters. From the fiery “Old Bohemian” to the velvety “Plum Reserve,” your taste buds will dance in delight.
Address: U Lužického semináře 116
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Getting Around In Prague
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Prague
Big Bus Tours offers sightseeing tours of Prague on a double-decker bus or a single-decker bus across our two routes. During your tour, you can listen to our complimentary, pre-recorded commentary available in 24 languages to learn fascinating facts and stories about Prague.
You can hop on and hop off the bus at any stop to visit attractions and places of interest, or you’re welcome to sit back and relax for the entire tour!