Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock

Staroměstská radnice (Old Town Hall), a cornerstone of Prague’s history, was established in 1338 when the city council acquired a Gothic house on the square and gradually expanded it into a majestic complex of buildings. Its soaring Gothic tower, richly decorated interiors, and historic halls have witnessed centuries of royal proclamations, civic decisions, and revolutionary moments. Part of the building was damaged during the Prague Uprising in May 1945, when the eastern wing was destroyed by Nazi artillery and never rebuilt, leaving a visible gap in the façade.

It was also here, in 1621, that 27 Czech Protestant nobles were executed following the Battle of White Mountain—their legacy now marked by 27 white crosses embedded in the cobblestones outside. The battle of White Mountain was a pivotal defeat at the start of the Thirty Years’ War. This event marked the collapse of Czech political autonomy, the rise of Habsburg dominance, and the onset of forced re-Catholicization and Germanization, which led to the suppression of Czech language and culture for centuries.

But the true marvel lies on its southern wall: the Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, first installed in 1410. This medieval masterpiece is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world—and the oldest one still operating. More than just a timepiece, the Orloj shows Babylonian time, Central European time, sidereal time, the position of the sun and moon, the zodiacal ring, and the calendar with Czech name days. Every hour, on the hour (from 9:00 to 23:00), crowds gather to watch the clock come alive with the Twelve Apostles passing by its upper windows, while figures like Death, Vanity, and Greed perform their symbolic roles.

Inside, guided tours take visitors through the historic halls, Gothic chapel, and underground Romanesque and Gothic cellars, offering a deep dive into Prague’s layered past. The observation tower provides one of the most breathtaking panoramic views over the red rooftops of Old Town and beyond. You can either climb the ramp or take the elevator to the top.

Today, the Old Town Hall is not just a historical monument but a vibrant cultural space, frequently hosting temporary exhibitions ranging from contemporary art to retrospectives of Prague's history. It's also a favored venue for civil wedding ceremonies, offering couples an unforgettable setting steeped in heritage.

💡 Top Tip 💡

For one of the most unforgettable views in Prague, climb the Old Town Hall Tower. From its viewing platform, the intricate pattern of rooftops, church spires, and narrow lanes radiating from the square unfolds in every direction—an exceptional vantage point over the historic core of the city. The ramp and optional elevator make the ascent manageable for most visitors, and the sweeping vista is a photographer’s dream.

---

📅 Plan your visit

🏰 Tower Entry

🕒 Opening Hours: 

      Jan–Mar: Daily 10:00–19:00

      Apr–Dec: Daily 9:00–20:00

🌐 Buy tickets online to avoid queues
🎟 On-site: Tickets available at the Old Town Hall ticket office (inside the main entrance)

🛗 Elevator to the Tower
🎟 On-site ONLY: Tickets available at the Old Town Hall ticket office (inside the main entrance)

👣 Guided Tour of Interiors
🎟 On-site ONLY: Tickets available at the Old Town Hall ticket office (inside the main entrance)

---

🍴Where to eat : 

(Here are some suggestions. All are within 7 min walking from your current location).

 

[$]

-Bakeshop Café Bistro (Bakery, café & bistro with fresh pastries) 4.4 ⭐

-Alforno Focacceria Italiana (Italian Bakery & Café) 4.5 ⭐ 

[$]

-Pasta Fresca (Italian Trattoria) 4.4 ⭐ 

-White Horse (Historic Czech & international dining with live music) 4.2 ⭐ 

-Maitrea (Vegetarian & Vegan Cuisine) 4.6 ⭐

 

[$$]

-U Prince Restaurant & Rooftop (Historic Czech fine dining with rooftop views) 4.2 ⭐ 

-Brasileiro U Radnice  (Brazilian churrasco & steaks) 4.7 ⭐

-Masna Yami Sushi (Modern Japanese Cuisine with Asian Fusion) 4.7 ⭐

 

[$$]

-Divinis (Italian Cuisine) 4.5 ⭐ 

-Restaurant 420 (Modern Czech fine dining by Michelin-starred chef) 4.4 ⭐