Prague’s most iconic buildings
Prague is a city which boasts some of the most beautiful and iconic architecture from across the globe. If you plan on jet setting to the capital of the Czech Republic anytime soon, then be sure to feast your eyes upon these stunning buildings.
Municipal House Hall
Built at the beginning of the 20th century, this Art Nouveau style concert hall is beautifully preserved. The eye-catching exterior, designed by Antonín Balšánek, and the flamboyant interior design, created by Osvald Polívka have made this a favourite attraction amongst tourists.
Guided tours are available in both Czech and English and allow visitors the chance to get an inside look at the lavish decorations and large sculptures that feature throughout the Municipal House, including entry to several rooms which are usually off-limits.
Hilton Prague Hotel
The Hilton Prague Hotel is an incredible modern design, located in the business quarter, close to the river and just a stone’s throw away from the sights of the city. Voted as the ‘Best Business Hotel in Eastern Europe’ by the Business Traveller Magazine, the hotel has a capacity of 1,500 guests in the concert hall.
Equipped with restaurants, a rooftop bar & lounge, a fully equipped 2,000 sq. meter Health Club & Spa, full-sized heated pool, steam room and sauna, golf course and on-site casino, which plays host to the European Poker Tour Prague, this hotel boasts a stunning array of assets for all visitors.
The Dancing House
The most famous work of modern architecture in the Czech Republic, the Dancing House is an incredible work of art. Designed by Vlado Milunić and Frank O Gehry in a deconstructionist style, the building was completed in 1996.
The curvature of the two buildings represents two people dancing with one another, and was originally named Fred and Ginger after the famous dancing couple. Now dubbed ‘the Dancing House’, this is a must-see building for all fans of creative and original architecture.
Old-New Synagogue
Dating back to 1270, the Old-New Synagogue is one of just three synagogues still used for its services in ‘Josefov’, Prague’s Jewish Quarter. It is also the oldest functioning synagogue in the whole of Europe. The early gothic design features one central hall, surrounded by a number of smaller rooms, including the vaulted hall, which is supported by two octagonal pillars.
Throughout its 700 years, the synagogue has survived fires, several pogroms and a redevelopment of the Jewish quarter in the 19th century. Legend has it that angels protect the building, and bought the stones from the ruins of King Solomon’s Temple, and that one day it will be dismantled to rebuild the temple of Jerusalem.
Prague Castle
The Prague Castle has stood strong through many wars and fires, displaying a unique architectural design. The castle was built on the site as early as the 9th century, being fortified and expanded throughout the 12th and 13th centuries. A neighbourhood grew around the castle, and the building was renovated and further expanded under the reign of King Charles IV in 14th century. After the First World War, the castle became the seat of the Czechoslovakia government and the president of the country still currently resides here.
With such a rich history to the site, Prague Castle has become a major attraction. The site features three courtyards, rounded towers, the picturesque Golden Lane, the Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral and St. George’s Basilica and Convent.
