Prague Old Town

History of the Old Town

The Old Town was declared a town in 1232, and during the 13th century another town, Havelský, was founded in the Old Town. At that time, both cities had a predominantly German population. The importance of the town gradually grew mainly because the local craftsmen merged into guilds, which in the Middle Ages were quite important organizations, which brought together craftsmen of the same focus, who gradually managed to gain certain rights and status.

In the 14th century, the Czech language began to gain ground and German gradually began to disappear. In 1338, the Old Town was allowed to build a town hall, on which the astronomical clock was also located.

Originally an independent city, on 12 February 1784 it became part of the Royal Capital of Prague.

Monuments and interesting places

The historical core of the Old Town of Prague is mainly the Old Town Square, where we can find several important Prague monuments. The most visited tourist is the Old Town Hall with the Astronomical Clock, no less important is the Church of St. Nicholas or the Church of the Mother of God in front of Týn. Near the Old Town Square is Ungelt, the Golz-Kinský Palace, directly on the square is a monument to Master Jan Hus and the House at the Stone Bell.

The Royal Route also passes through the Old Town of Prague, crossing the most important places of our metropolis. It leads around the Municipal House, the Klementinum and connects to the Lesser Town with the Charles Bridge.

Author: Andrea Štyndlová