Old Town Hall

(AKA Staroměstská radnice)

The Old Town Hall is a complex of buildings that dates back to the 14th century, with various architectural styles reflecting its centuries-long evolution. Its most distinctive feature is the iconic Astronomical Clock, one of the oldest and most elaborate astronomical clocks in the world. Visitors flock to the clock every hour to witness its mesmerizing show as the figures come to life and the twelve apostles make their appearance.

Climbing to the top of the tower is an absolute highlight of visiting the Old Town Hall. From there, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Prague’s skyline, offering a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the winding Vltava River. The ascent may be a bit steep, but the reward is truly worth it.

Another noteworthy feature of the Old Town Hall is the Gothic-style chapel, adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. This sacred space adds a sense of serenity and tranquility to the bustling square outside.

In addition to its architectural splendor, the Old Town Hall is steeped in historical significance. It served as the seat of the city government for centuries and witnessed numerous important events throughout Prague’s history. It stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience and endurance through turbulent times.

Visit Notes

This was absolutely worth the visit. On the way up through the floors of the tower you will see various rooms and exhibits. There is even a room where you can see the back side of the astronomical clock as it performs its hourly show.

In my opinion, the views from this tower are the best views of all the towers we climbed. Better yet, you don’t have to actually climb this tower if you have mobility issues, there’s an elevator! We took the stairs though, which in contrast with the other towers we climbed, feel completely modern and stable.