Municipal House

Municipal House

The Municipal House (Obecní dům) is a concert hall and landmark building in Prague, and an important structure in the architectural and political history of the Czech Republic. It is located on Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky).

Around the year 1900, the city government held two architectural design competitions to build this structure, but neither yielded satisfactory results. Eventually, the project was assigned to architect Osvald Polívka and Antonín Balšánek. Construction began in 1905 and the building was opened in 1912. This Art Nouveau-style building is a crystallization of Czech nationalism at that time, decorated by top Czech artists. Above the main entrance on the façade is a large ceramic semi-circular mosaic, “Homage to Prague,” created by Karel Špillar. On either side are allegorical sculptures by Ladislav Šaloun, while the decorative work is by Josef Mařatka and others. The interior features murals by renowned artists such as Alfons Mucha and Max Švabinský, all with nationalist themes.

The main space within the Municipal House is the Smetana Hall, used for concerts, named after Smetana. On October 28, 1918, the Smetana Hall was the site where Czechoslovakia declared its independence.

Municipal House

Must-visit reason: One of the most important landmarks in Prague

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Czech Republic [Czech Republic]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Prague [Prague]

City where the attraction is located: Prague [Prague]