New Town

Wenceslas Square is the heart of the city and a symbol of its recent history. The square is 750 meters long and 60 meters wide. It was initially called the Horse Market. The name Wenceslas began to be used only in 1848.

When Charles IV founded the New City of Prague, he intended the square—then known as the Cattle Market—to become the center of the new settlement. Today it is known as Charles Square.

Few buildings in Prague have caused as much controversy as the Dancing House on Rašínovo nábřeží. Some admire its bold design, while others argue that it does not fit the surrounding architecture. Either way, no other modern building in Prague attracts as much attention.

The church on Resslova Street, built in the 18th century, was originally consecrated to St. Charles Borromeo. There are still frescoes inside that depict scenes from this saint's life. However, in 1783, during Emperor Joseph II's reforms, the church was closed. The army used the building for many years. Only in 1933, after a long reconstruction, was the building transferred to the Czech Orthodox Church. It was re-consecrated and began to be called the Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius.

The New Town of Prague was founded in 1348 by King Charles IV. He bought plots of land in advance and resold them under several conditions. Anyone who purchased land was required to begin building a stone house within one month and complete construction within 18 months. These strict conditions were softened by a generous incentive: those who met them were exempt from taxes for 12 years.