Audio Narration

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Národní Třída (Boulevard Národní) is one of Prague’s most symbolically significant boulevards, stretching from Jungmann Square to the National Theatre, and standing at the heart of Czech modern history. On November 17, 1989, it became the epicenter of the Velvet Revolution, when a peaceful student protest was brutally dispersed by riot police. The crackdown shocked the nation and catalyzed a chain of events that led to the peaceful fall of communism in Czechoslovakia just weeks later.

Each year on November 17th, Boulevard Národní is transformed into a lively and poignant celebration of freedom. The street is closed to traffic and filled with commemorative events, cultural performances, live music, candlelight vigils, and art installations—reminding Czechs and visitors alike of the importance of democracy and peaceful protest.

The street itself is also rich in architectural and cultural landmarks. At the upper end, the striking Adria Palacecatches the eye with its bold Art Deco and Rondocubist design, now housing offices and cultural spaces. The Critic’s Gallery, located on the first floor, is a respected contemporary art gallery operated by the Society of Czech Art Critics.

Tucked away between Boulevard Národní (no. 37) and Uhelný trh, the quiet courtyard of Platýz Palace offers a serene escape from the city’s bustle. Dating back to 1347, this historic complex has transformed from a noble residence into one of Prague’s earliest luxury apartment buildings. Today, the peaceful courtyard—connected by an elegant passage—hosts art galleries, design shops, and charming cafés, making it a favorite local hideaway.

On the corner with Spálená Street stands the iconic Máj Department Store. Once a symbol of 1970s Brutalist architecture, Máj has been recently restored and reimagined as a sleek, modern shopping destination that respects its bold architectural roots. High above its entrance, look up to spot Spitfire Butterflies, a whimsical kinetic sculpture by David Černý, featuring oversized metallic insects with propeller wings that seem to hover over the street. You can visit Máj’s rooftop bar Fly Vista for sweeping views of central Prague—it's a perfect photo spot.

Just beyond Máj, at the corner of Charvátova and Vladislavova Streets, you’ll encounter another of Černý’ssignature works: the Head of Franz Kafka. This 10.6-meter kinetic sculpture, made of 42 rotating stainless steel layers, periodically aligns into the famous writer’s face before dissolving back into fragmented movement. It’s a powerful modern contrast to the area’s historical surroundings and a reflection of Kafka’s introspective, shifting identity.

Nearby, the Reduta Jazz Club (no. 20) stands as a living icon of Prague’s musical soul, famous for its intimate concerts and for having hosted Bill Clinton during his 1994 visit. Right next door is the legendary Café Louvre (no. 22), a grand belle époque café where intellectuals such as Franz Kafka and Albert Einstein once dined and debated. With its high ceilings, billiards tables, and traditional Czech fare, it remains a favourite gathering spot to this day.

As you continue, you’ll encounter the Memorial of November 17th, a modest but powerful monument of handprints set into the wall, marking the very spot where students were stopped and beaten in 1989.

Further down, at the corner of Národní and Voršilská Streets, stands Palác Dunaj, a striking example of early 20th-century architecture built in 1930. This functionalist building originally served as the headquarters for the Dunaj insurance company. Its clean lines, elegant façade, and distinctive corner tower make it a landmark of the Boulevard Národní area.

Continue further to the elegant Topič House (no. 9), another significant architectural landmark on the boulevard. Originally built in the Art Nouveau style, it has served various purposes over the years, including as a publishing house and bookstore.

Just before the river, the New Stage (Nová Scéna) of the National Theatre emerges with its dramatic glass façade and bold Brutalist style. Built in the 1980s, it contrasts with—but also complements—the richly adorned National Theatre, Prague’s cultural crown jewel, opened in 1883 as a monument to Czech national identity and artistic achievement.

Located on the National Theatre piazza (in between the New Stage of the National Theatre and the main building), you'll find Václav Havel Square, a small but significant space dedicated to the former Czech president and playwright. The square is enlivened by a sculpture in the form of a 160 cm large granite red heart, on which people can write messages, serving as a memorial to Havel. This intimate piazzetta serves as a quiet spot for reflection, often hosting cultural events and performances that honor Havel's legacy of freedom and human rights.

Finally, just across from the theatre, Café Slavia invites you to pause and reflect over coffee and cake. With its elegant Art Deco interior and sweeping views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle, this iconic café has long served as a cultural salon and an important venue for intellectual and political discourse. Throughout the 20th century, it was a meeting place for writers, dissidents, and artists during pivotal moments in Czech history. Among its most notable regulars were Václav Havel, the dissident playwright who became president, Bohumil Hrabal, one of the most beloved Czech novelists, and Milan Kundera, internationally renowned author of The Unbearable Lightness of Being.

Boulevard Národní is not just a street—it’s a corridor of Czech history, culture, and resilience. A walk along its length is both a journey through Prague’s architectural splendor and a quiet tribute to the courage of those who peacefully reshaped a nation.

💡 Top Tip 💡

Look closely at the pavement on Boulevard Národní—embedded bronze footprints and a bronze ribbon mark the exact spot where students were trapped and beaten on November 17, 1989. Just beside it, don’t miss the modest memorial inscribed with “They beat us, but it was us who won,” a powerful tribute to the courage that sparked the Velvet Revolution and reshaped Czech history.