Top 5: Architectural styles in Prague

Discover the architectural styles of the Czech capital — through the eyes of a local guide — spanning everything from a Renaissance palace to striking cubist structures

By National Geographic Traveller (UK)
Published 9 Apr 2019, 00:17 BST, Updated 12 Jul 2021, 16:48 BST

Municipal House, Prague

Photograph by Alamy

01 Municipal House 
Clad in stucco, decorated with mosaics and topped by a glass dome, this is a magnificent example of Czech art nouveau. Completed in 1912, it was subsequently the location of the Czechoslovak Declaration of Independence in 1918. Don't miss the excellent grand cafe, beer hall and restaurant.

02 Palace Gardens under Prague Castle 
A stunning horticultural display, this group of five gardens runs along terraces connected by decorative staircases. Developed in the 18th-century baroque style, this floral oasis on the southern slopes of Prague Castle features grottos, fountains and statues. Open daily in summer, 10am to 7pm.

03 Queen Anne's Summer Palace 
With its columns, arcades and reliefs, this is a fine example of Italian Renaissance. Located in the Royal Gardens of Prague Castle, this palace was commissioned in 1538 by Ferdinand I for his wife, Anna Jagiellon. The palace currently serves as a space for art exhibitions.

04 House of the Black Madonna 
This building — now the Czech Museum of Cubism — is perhaps the most important centre for Cubism outside of Paris. Built between 1911-12 as a department store, the first floor is home to the restored Grand Cafe Orient, which dishes up tasty traditional Czech cakes.

05 Dancing House Fred and Ginger 
This Deconstructivist house certainly stands out. Designed by Czech-Croatian architect, Vlado Milunić, in cooperation with Frank Gehry, it's home to the Ginger & Fred restaurant, which serves dishes like Coca-Cola marinated beef ribs topped with Abondance cheese.

Tereza Lvova is a Kudu Travel tour leader and native of South Moravia. A graduate of Brno's Masaryk University, Tereza spends her time travelling, guiding and creating tour itineraries.

Published in the March 2018 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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