Prague’s Obecní Dům (Municipal Hall) was constructed in the early 1900s on the site of the former Royal Court Palace, the residence of the Kings of Bohemia. This stately building is today considered to be one of Europe’s greatest masterpieces of Art Nouveau style with a concert hall and a series of rooms decorated by some of the greatest Czech artists.
Visiting the Obecní Dům
The visit to the Obecní Dům was part of the itinerary for Rick Steves’ Best of Prague and Budapest, and it included a guided tour of the building’s Smetana Hall, Confectionery, Božena Němcová Parlour, Oriental Parlour, Mayor’s Hall, and other artistically decorated rooms. I found the guided tour to be not only highly informative but also very memorable. The lady who led the tour shared lovely memories of the times she and her husband spent in the Municipal House as children. That personal touch truly enhanced our visit to the site.
I was impressed with the Municipal House and will say it was one of the highlights of my trip. My favorite room was the very impressive Mayor’s Hall that was painted by Czech legend Alphonse Mucha. The art and architecture in that hall were just wow! The Palacký Hall is another room that was masterfully painted with the work completed by Jan Preisler, another notable Czech painter.
If visiting Prague for several days, I recommend that travelers take a tour of the Obecní Dům. The tours last approximately one hour and are offered in English or Czech. A printed version of the tour is available in several languages, including Spanish, Italian, and French. The Municipal House is located a few blocks east of Old Town Square, where Staré Mesto (Old Town) borders Nové Město (New Town).
At the Obecní Dům, travelers will also find a series of Art Nouveau-style restaurants and cafes, the most notable of which is the American Bar. This bar opened in 1912 and is considered one of the oldest in Europe.
Adult tour tickets cost 320 Kč, but reduced fares are available for families and those in certain age groups.
The Obecní Dům is accessible to guests with mobility impairments.
Travel Tip
Next to the Obecní Dům stands the Powder Tower. Built in 1475, this tower marks the start of the coronation processional route kings followed as they rode to Prague Castle from the Royal Court Palace. The Powder Tower has a viewing gallery and a small exhibit at the top, which can be accessed for a nominal fee.
Admission discounts are available, including an early bird discount of 50% during the first hour after opening.
The viewing gallery and exhibit are not accessible.
Resources
For more information on the Obecní Dům, you can visit the following website.
Visit this website for more information and detailed history of the Powder Tower.
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