Prague – Tips & Suggestions

The Municipal House (Obecní Dum)

The Municipal House is the most famous Art Nouveau building in Prague and a fascinating example of the ›Jugendstil‹ variant of Art Nouveau. Coming from the tourist's area between Charles Bridge and Old Town Square (10 min walking distance), the Municipal House will be a refresh for your eyes and senses.

Designed by the architects Antonín Balsánek and Osvald Polívka and built 1905-1911 as one of the cultural centres for the Prague people. (Today, though, you won't see many Czechs around you if you want to enjoy a concert in the Smetana Hall of the Municipal House as the prices for a ticket are made for Western tourists but not for the people in this city.)

Also, you find a cafe and a French restaurant inside. The cafe is quite old-fashioned (including the service), but that makes it even more interesting and fun after all the modern, stylish cafes you usually hang around.

Address: Right at the Metro station Námestí Republiky [ Map: Prague, Municipal House ]

House at the Black Madonna: Museum of Czech Cubism and Grand Café Orient

The House at the Black Madonna (Dum u Cerné Matky Bozí), built 1911-1912 by architect Josef Gocár, is probably the most prominent building from the period of Czech cubism in the early 20th century. Today it houses the Museum of Czech Cubism, open Tue-Sun 10:00 - 18:00.

Examples of Czech cubism in interior design, furniture, pottery, and glass can be seen in the Grand Café Orient on the 1st floor of the building. Have a look at the big bar for example!

The cafe is open daily from 10:00 to 22:00 and serves breakfast, pancakes, crepes, salads, wines, cocktails and more. Further information and pictures at www.grandcafeorient.cz.

Address: Celetná/Ovocný trh 19. 7 min walking distance from both Old Town Square and Námestí Republiky. [ Map: Prague, House at the Black Madonna ]