Built where kings lived
The site was the Royal Court, the home of Bohemian kings from the 14th century. The Powder Tower next door was once part of it.
Urban Tales › Prague › Municipal House
Municipal House: the history, and the room where a country was born
Prague's Art Nouveau showpiece was built on the site of the old royal court, decorated by more than 30 Czech artists, and was where Czechoslovakia was declared in 1918. Here's what you're looking at, and what to listen for when you get there.
Built1905–1912
ArchitectsBalšánek & Polívka
Independence28 Oct 1918
Artists30+
Hear the Municipal House story, in the app's voice
A short preview. The full story plays on its own when you walk up to it with Urban Tales.
Three stories most visitors miss
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Where Czechoslovakia began
On 28 October 1918 the National Committee declared an independent Czechoslovakia here, as the Austro-Hungarian Empire collapsed.
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Mucha's room
Alfons Mucha decorated the Mayor's Hall: the ceiling and walls show the virtues of the Czech people. It's only seen on a guided tour.
TipLook up at the mosaic "Homage to Prague" above the main entrance, then step into the Art Nouveau café on the ground floor, which you can visit without a ticket. With Urban Tales running, the building's story plays as you reach the square.
Nearby landmarks
Municipal House: common questions
What is the Municipal House in Prague?
An Art Nouveau civic building finished in 1912, with Prague's Smetana Hall, restaurants and a café.
Where was Czechoslovakia declared?
At the Municipal House, on 28 October 1918.
Can you see Mucha's room in the Municipal House?
Yes, the Mayor's Hall is shown on the building's guided tours.