Prague Powder Tower

In terms of art history, the Powder Tower belongs to the late Gothic period. It is a significant historical building, which as a gate tower still provides access to Prague's Old Town. The Powder Tower is 65 metres high. At a height of 44 meters there is a viewing platform, from which the tourist has a beautiful view over Prague.All coronation processions of Czech kings passed through the gate of the Powder Tower. This is where they entered the Old Town of Prague. Zeltnergasse (Celetná) begins directly at the Powder Tower. It represents the beginning of the historical Royal Route and leads from the former royal court to Prague Castle.

Naming

The name Powder Tower originates from the fact that the tower was used as a storehouse for black powder until the end of the 17th century. Although the danger of explosion was very high, there was never an accident caused by the black powder.

History of the Prague Powder Tower

The Powder Tower was built in 1475. The constructor and master builder was Mattias Rejsek. This was once the site of the St. Ambrose Gate, which was part of the city's fortifications. This was initially replaced by the Horská Gate. However, when the New Town of Prague was built, the fortification of the Old Town lost its importance. However, as this gate was located right next to the royal court and was now considered an eyesore, Vladislav II ordered the construction of a representative tower.

However, the construction work was first interrupted in 1484 and later stopped altogether when Vladislav II, King of Bohemia and Hungary, moved his seat of government from Prague Castle to Hradcany. Only a temporary roof was built.

In 1757, during the Seven Years' War, the tower was finally severely damaged by the Prussian siege. When the tower began to deteriorate, the remaining ornaments were removed in 1799.

In the years from 1875 to 1886 Josef Mocker undertook the restoration of the Prague Powder Tower. It was restored in the neo-Gothic style. Mocker based his work on the Old Town Bridge Tower. He chose the furnishings of the tower mostly freely.
It was not until these years that the hipped roof was built and also the net vaulting of the gateway and many parts of the building decoration originate from this time.
In the years 1905 to 1911, the Obecnídům was added to the Powder Tower. It is an Art Nouveau municipal building that stands on the site of the former royal court.

The Prague Powder Tower still looks much as it was designed and built over 500 years ago.