Wenceslas Square – Prague

Careful calculation of time is a must when travelling, especially when visiting famous landmarks and places. I say that because when we visited Prague’s Wenceslas square, it was a lovely morning but the sun was on that part casting shadows, thus, our silhouette photos.

The square is part of the city centre recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. The plaza has a very rich history having witnessed a number of demonstrations and gatherings. For one, it was in front of the Wenceslas monument where Alois Jirasek, Czech writer and Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, proclaimed the independence of Czechoslovakia in 1918.

Wenceslas square is lined up with many different establishments – we unfortunately didn’t go down further to take photos but the entire strip is composed of hotels, food establishments, offices and shops. What is most notable is the National Museum, designed by Czech architect Josef Schulz.

Here are some things you can do at Wenceslas Square:

1. Explore the Square: Take a leisurely stroll along Wenceslas Square and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. The square is lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and historical buildings, making it a great place for people-watching and enjoying the lively street scene.
2. Visit the National Museum: Located at the top end of Wenceslas Square, the National Museum is a prominent cultural institution in Prague. The museum houses a vast collection of art, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase Czech history, culture, and natural sciences.
3. Admire the Statue of Saint Wenceslas: At the top of Wenceslas Square, you’ll find a grand statue of Saint Wenceslas mounted on a horse, the patron saint of Bohemia. . This statue is an important symbol of Czech history and is often a meeting point for locals and tourists.

   

   The monument was sculpted by Josef Václav Myslbek in 1887–1924. There are a number statues surrounding Saint Wenceslas representing other saints (St. Adalbert, St. Ludmila, St. Prokop and St. Agnes of Bohemia). Pardon, I don’t have a photo of his supposed face in a good angle. :/

4. Shopping: Wenceslas Square is home to numerous shops and boutiques where you can indulge in some retail therapy. You’ll find a variety of fashion stores, souvenir shops, bookstores, and more. It’s a great place to pick up Czech souvenirs and traditional crafts.
5. Enjoy Czech Cuisine: Wenceslas Square has plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can savor Czech cuisine. Sample local specialties such as goulash, svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce), trdelník (a traditional sweet pastry), or try a traditional Czech beer.
6. Experience the Nightlife: Wenceslas Square comes alive at night with its vibrant nightlife scene. You’ll find bars, clubs, and music venues where you can enjoy live music, DJ performances, and dance the night away.
7. Attend Events and Festivals: Wenceslas Square often hosts various events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. Keep an eye out for cultural performances, markets, and celebrations taking place on the square during your visit.

Looking at it, the neoclassical make of the building resembles Vienna’s own twin museums of Natural history and Art history. As mentioned above, timing is a good thing to consider…we came earlier than 8 in the morning, we weren’t able to peak inside the museum – still closed – and so we missed seeing the collection of artifacts on display.

Remember to take in the architectural beauty of the buildings surrounding the square, including the historic facades and Art Nouveau elements. Wenceslas Square is a central hub in Prague, offering a mix of history, culture, entertainment, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the city.