What is it and why is it famous?
A massive statue of St. Wenceslas on horseback (the patron saint of the Czech Republic) watches over this long rectangular heart of New Town. Serving as a public center of historical revolution and resistance, Václavské náměstí (the Czech translation) still draws crowds of public outcry and civil disobedience.
What happened at Wenceslas Square?
Jan Palach publicly lit himself on fire here to protest the Communist crackdown in 1968, and residents gathered outside in 1989 to jingle their keys in the air as a symbol for the Communist leaders to leave town as Czechoslovakia gained its independence in the Velvet Revolution.
Time Out Tip
Book a guided walking tour or similar to enhance your experience, which explains the personal stories that these stones have witnessed.
Where should I visit nearby?
For a sophisticated café housed in eye-catching architecture, check out Palác Adria. If you’re looking to continue into the evening, Lucerna Music Bar is the spot for retro weekend parties and live music during the week. Ready to rest your head? Hotel Jalta is a cracking modern hotel down the road with an original Andy Warhol screen print of Franz Kafka.
This review was fact-checked and updated in 2024.
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