Present Dum

Prague's impressive Obecni Dum Municipal House is a special gem among the numerous world-famous buildings that adorn the fascinating capital of the Czech Republic and is of particular historical and cultural significance. The magnificent building is an architectural jewel whose stylish ornaments and ornate illustrations give its Art Nouveau architecture with Baroque leanings a fabulous charisma.

History of the Municipal House Prague

More than 700 years ago, the residence of Czech kings and noble families stood on King's Square, the present location of the Obecni Dum. Between the 14th and 15th centuries, the Royal House was built during the reign of King Wenceslas IV, and later served as short-term accommodation for regents and other noble lords. In the 17th century, the building housed an archiepiscopal seminary, and years later it was used as a royal barracks. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was decided to build a representative cultural state building, in which numerous famous and renowned architects and artists of the time participated. The successful implementation of the construction project was completed in 1911, and the Prague Municipal House underwent its official inauguration in 1912. Six years later, on 28 October 1918, the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the Republic of Czechoslovakia were announced in the Municipal House in Prague.

The unmistakable architecture, design and amazing technical equipment of the Obecni Dum still make up the fantastic splendour and magnificence of this building. The impressive facade is dominated by the masterfully designed semicircular mosaic "Praise to Prague". More than 1200 magnificently decorated rooms and halls can be found in the interior of the Obecni Dum, which is richly decorated with sculptures, paintings, ceramics and architectural highlights.

Location and current importance

The Obecni Dum is located in the heart of the city and overlooks the central Republic Square. The Municipal House is an important highlight along the sightseeing tour of Prague's historic city centre. This is because right next to the Obecni Dum stands another important landmark of the city, the Prague Powder Tower, which as a fortification tower was part of the former Old Town walls.

The magnificent building has retained its representative character as the cultural heart of the capital to this day. The prominent Municipal House is the headquarters of the Prague Symphony Orchestra as well as a well-known venue for numerous cultural events featuring world-class international artists. Many social events, annual functions and exhibitions take place in the excellent premises of the Prague Municipal House.

Concert events and gastronomy

Undoubtedly the focal point of the building is the glamorous 897 m² "Smetana Hall", where concerts of the Prague Symphony Orchestra are regularly held. The stunning Art Nouveau hall, furnished with original objects, is a perfectly shaped architectural highlight and has a seating capacity of over 1250. Numerous other brilliant halls and halls, such as the "Rieger Hall", the "Primator Hall" or the "Sladkovski Hall" are equally ornate and definitely worth visiting during an official tour.

The Municipal House boasts two elegant restaurants where visitors can enjoy exquisite Czech and international cuisine in an authentic Art Nouveau setting. A charming Art Nouveau coffee house, the fantastic American bar and beer hall invite guests to enjoy a tranquil stay at any time in the fabulous gastronomic facilities of this historic building.