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New Town Hall

Step into history at Prague’s **New Town Hall**, a captivating Gothic landmark that has witnessed centuries of dramatic events and transformation. Built in the late 14th century as the heart of the dynamic “New Town,” the hall became the stage for one of Prague’s most infamous episodes: the first defenestration of 1419, where angry Hussite supporters hurled Catholic councillors from the windows, sparking the Hussite Wars. Families and curious travelers will find much to explore here. Wander through atmospheric halls that once echoed with the debates and intrigues of medieval city officials. Marvel at the restored Gothic-Renaissance architecture, shaped by renowned architects like Benedikt Ried and Kamil Hilbert, whose work also graces Prague Castle. Climb the tower for a breathtaking, lesser-known view over Prague’s historic skyline—a treat for both kids and adults. Today, New Town Hall buzzes with life, hosting exhibitions, cultural events, and even a trendy café nestled within its ancient walls. It’s a living monument where Prague’s past and present meet, inviting visitors of all ages to experience stories, secrets, and spectacular city views.

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New Town Hall

Did you know that RIGHT where you're standing, people used to buy FISH and bread 700 years ago? That's like... your whole life times SEVENTY! This isn't actually new at all - it's from 1374, which makes it older than your great-great-great-great... *deep breath*... GREAT grandparents times a hundred! Look up at that tower - it's 70 meters tall, that's like stacking SEVEN school buses on top of each other! Can you spot the secret? There are exactly 198 steps inside, and here's the gross part... medieval guards used to PEE in special corners up there because bathrooms hadn't been invented yet! Ewwww! Before this fancy building, there was a tiny wooden market hall that burned down THREE times because people kept forgetting to blow out their candles. The stone you're touching right now came from quarries 200 kilometers away - that's like walking to school and back 400 times! Quick challenge: can you count how many windows you see? There are 92, but most people only spot about 60!

Did You Know?

  • On July 30, 1419, the New Town Hall was the dramatic site of the First Defenestration of Prague, when radical Hussites stormed the building and threw Catholic town councillors out of the windows—an act that sparked the Hussite Wars and is one of the most infamous events in Czech history.
  • The New Town Hall boasts a rare Gothic Hall of Justice, which is the largest preserved non-religious High Gothic hall in Bohemia, featuring massive Gothic archways and a grand entrance staircase; its tower, built in the 14th century, stands 42 meters tall and offers a panoramic view of Prague, but requires climbing 221 steps since there was no elevator in medieval times.
  • The building is a unique architectural blend, originally Gothic, then remodeled with Renaissance gables and portal by royal architect Benedikt Ried in the 16th century, and later restored to its Gothic-Renaissance appearance in the early 20th century by Kamil Hilbert, who also worked on St. Vitus Cathedral—today, it houses a trendy café and hosts cultural events, making it a lively spot where history meets modern Prague life.
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