Old Town Square

Staroměstské náměstí (Old Town Square), the vibrant heart of Prague’s historic center, has served as a marketplace and civic stage for over a thousand years. Framed by a mosaic of Gothic, Baroque, and Rococo architecture, the square embodies the layered story of the Czech nation—from royal coronations and revolutionary uprisings to moments of profound cultural pride.

Towering over the square is the Church of Our Lady before Týn, its twin spires piercing the sky like something out of a fairytale. Opposite stands the Baroque St. Nicholas Church, and at the center rises the Jan Hus Memorial, commemorating the Czech religious reformer who was burned at the stake in 1415 for challenging the Catholic Church. His legacy became a lasting symbol of Czech identity. The dramatic Old Town Hall, with its Gothic tower and astronomical clock (Orloj), draws crowds hourly to witness the 12 apostles procession—a medieval marvel of engineering and artistry.

You’ll also find the House at the Stone Bell (Zvon House), one of Prague’s oldest stone houses dating back to the 13th century. This historic building, named after the bell-shaped relief on its façade, is a pristine example of Gothic domestic architecture and offers a glimpse into medieval urban life, forming part of the rich architectural tapestry surrounding the square. 

Nearby stands the elegant Rococo Kinský Palace, renowned for its richly decorated façade and its role as a former noble residence; today, it houses part of the National Gallery’s collection of Asian and Central European art. 

At the center of the square, the Marian Column stands as a striking Baroque monument, a faithful replica of the original statue that was destroyed in 1918. The column commemorates the Virgin Mary and symbolizes Prague’s historical resilience and religious heritage..

Embedded in the cobblestones is the Prague Meridian, once used to tell time before the astronomical clock was installed, and a memorial of 27 white crosses, honoring the Czech Protestant nobles executed in 1621 after the Battle of White Mountain—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.

💡 Top Tip 💡

Slip behind the Church of Our Lady before Týn into the quiet lanes of Týnská and Týnský dvůr (Ungelt)—once a medieval merchant courtyard, now a peaceful pocket of calm just steps from the busy square. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds, browse small galleries and design shops, or enjoy a coffee in a tucked-away café with a view of the church’s soaring spires from the back—an angle few tourists ever see.

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🍴Where to eat : 

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

 

[$]

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

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

[$]

-Point Restaurant & Bar (Trendy spot for cocktails and modern cuisine) 4.6 ⭐

-Mincovna (Traditional Czech Cuisine) 4.5 ⭐

-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 ⭐

-Agave (Mexican & Latin Cuisine) 4.5 ⭐ 

 

[$$]

-George Prime Steak (American Steakhouse) 4.6 ⭐

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