Explore Staré Město: Where Every Corner Whispers a Thousand-Year-Old Story!
Staré Město is the most famous district of Prague, although not the oldest, as it was established after Prague Castle. The central Staroměstské náměstí (Old Town Square) is home to the clock tower, St. Nicholas Church, and the Jan Hus Monument, and it hosts the Christmas markets.
The Historic Charm of Staré Město
No one can remain indifferent to the charm that radiates from Staré Město, one of the oldest districts of Prague, which developed after the Pražský hrad (Prague Castle). It consists of a series of streets and alleys that brim with history and evoke emotions at every turn. For more than 1,000 years, this central area of Prague has been the beating heart of the entire city. Even in the evening, it comes alive with colors and energy, thanks to the many young people frequenting its bars and jazz/night clubs.
A Glimpse into the History of Staré Město
Staré Město probably originated in the 9th century AD, even though at that time it must have been a modest settlement on the right bank of the Vltava, the river of Prague. There was already a square here where a market was held. In the Middle Ages, Staré Město underwent significant development, giving rise to several important monuments. The city grew, and to the north of this district, Jewish settlements emerged, leading to the formation of the Josefov district. Charles IV contributed to the demographic boom of Prague by constructing the famous Charles Bridge over the Vltava and founding the New Town (Nové Město) in the 14th century, turning Prague into one of Europe’s major cities.
Exploring Staré Město
Walking through the Staré Město district is an exhilarating experience. The central point is undoubtedly the Staroměstské náměstí (Old Town Square). The initial view is breathtaking: the two spires of the Church of Our Lady before Týn to the west and the Gothic tower of the Old Town Hall catapult you into a fairy-tale setting. The church actually has a semi-hidden façade, which remains behind some of the buildings in the square. Its Gothic spires, however, soar to a height of 80 meters. The interior is not as large as one might expect, but it is worth visiting for the tomb of Tycho Brahe, the renowned astronomer buried here.
The Astronomical Clock and Old Town Hall
Opposite the church is the Old Town Hall (Staroměstská radnice), easily recognizable by its 70-meter high Astronomical Clock Tower (Staroměstský orloj). The astronomical clock is one of Prague’s most iconic attractions and is an impressive example of medieval clockwork mechanics. It was constructed more than 600 years ago by the clockmaker Mikuláš z Kadaň and the mathematician and astronomer Jan Šindel. Every hour, crowds gather beneath the clock to witness the procession of the twelve apostles and the animations of the four figures flanking the clock, including a charming skeleton.
Monuments and Churches of Staré Město
Staroměstské náměstí also features other notable attractions. In the southern part of the square stands the Jan Hus Memorial, a monument erected in 1915 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Czech theologian and patriot’s death at the stake. The statue of the Hussite martyr stands proudly facing north. Still in the Old Town Square, you’ll find the Baroque Church of St. Nicholas, one of the two churches in Prague dedicated to the famous saint (the other being in Malá Strana).
The Clementinum and Charles Bridge
Leaving the square, you can head east. The narrow streets will lead you towards the Vltava, and by following the flow of tourists, you will inevitably find yourself at the famous Charles Bridge. On the way, you can admire the Clementinum (Klementinum), now home to the National Library, built in the mid-16th century by Ferdinand I of Habsburg. This serves as a delightful “appetizer” before ascending Prague’s most beloved monument, the Karlův most (Charles Bridge), which connects the two banks of the Vltava. The bridge was commissioned by Charles IV in 1357, and it took 45 years to complete its 515-meter length. Great care was taken in its construction to prevent it from meeting the same fate as the previous bridge, which had been destroyed by flooding.
The statues that adorn the bridge are not all originals; many have been relocated to the National Gallery in Prague, but they still add a special magic to the place. In the evening, the illuminated profile of the castle makes the scene exceptionally poetic. For a small fee (around 3 euros), you can ascend the Staroměstská Mostecká věž, the tower guarding the bridge, to gain a unique perspective on the city.
The Powder Gate and Municipal House
Staré Město offers many other sights not to be missed. To the west of the square, at the end of Celetná Street, you’ll find the Powder Gate with its Gothic spires. You can also climb this structure for an incredible view of Prague’s historical center, especially in the late afternoon when the city is bathed in the warm glow of sunset. Nearby is the Municipal House, a remarkable example of Art Nouveau architecture where Czech Philharmonic concerts are regularly held.
Cubist Architecture and The Estates Theatre
Not far from here, on Ovocný trh Street, stands the House of the Black Madonna, the best-preserved example of Cubist architecture, a unique Bohemian style that sought to apply Cubist principles to three-dimensional buildings. Designed by Josef Gočár, one of the leading figures of Cubism, the building today houses a gallery and a permanent exhibition dedicated to this unique movement. Close by, at number 1 Ovocný trh, is the Estates Theatre, famous for being the venue of the world premiere of Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Fans of the film Amadeus by Miloš Forman may recognize some scenes shot here.
Cathedral of St. James
Continuing west, behind Our Lady before Týn, in a side street (Malá Štupartská 6), lies the Church of St. James. The building is Baroque, though an earlier church once stood here before being destroyed by fire. The interior is perfect for those who love opulent Baroque design, and it regularly hosts classical music concerts. A mummified arm inside the church tells the story of an old legend, in which a statue of the Madonna came to life to stop a thief attempting to steal from the church.
