Collect your thoughts amid the peaceful confines of Charles Square (Karlovo náměstí). Stroll along tree-lined paths while spotting sculptures of recognized figures from Czech popular culture. Admire Baroque and Renaissance landmarks, which are typical of Prague’s architectural landscape.
King Charles IV established Charles Square in 1348 as the focal point of Prague’s New Town district. It served as a cattle market from the 15th century, before being converted into a park in the 1800s. Learn about its darker past. Legend says that it once operated as an execution ground. Rebellious aristocrats and clergymen are said to have met their fate here.
Throughout the year the park is a great place to spend a few relaxing hours. In spring and summer the flowerbeds bloom with vivid colors. The fall foliage presents an attractive foreground to the surrounding architecture. Visit in winter, when the snow-covered lawns induce a sense of romance. Sit on a bench and enjoy a moment of serenity away from Prague’s always busy Old Town.
Examine the square’s collection of statues portraying well-known national figures. These include the Czech poet Vítězslav Hálek and anatomist Jan Evangelista Purkyně. See statues of author Karolina Světlá and feminist writer Eliška Krásnohorská as well.
Walk to the northern edge of the square to see the Renaissance-style New Town Hall. Check out the temporary art exhibits and join a guided tour of the 230-foot-tall (70-meter) tower, reached by climbing a wooden staircase. At the opposite end is Faust House, a Baroque mansion associated with black magic and the devil. Don’t miss the Church of St. Ignatius, which is one of Prague’s earliest Baroque buildings.
Located in Prague’s New Town, Charles Square is easy to reach using the metro and trams. Karlovo náměstí metro station is just a 5-minute walk away. In addition to the historic buildings, explore the range of bars, cafés and restaurants located on the square’s surrounding streets. Be especially alert if you visit the square at night when pickpockets are known to operate.
