Wenceslas Square
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Address:
Václavské námestí 68
11000 Prague, Czech Republic
Phone:
+420 (0)2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre)
NileGuide Expert tip:
At first glance, this may look like a gaudy tourist trap so, in order to really appreciate the important place Wenceslas Square holds in Czech history, check out some photos of the Soviet invasion of Prague before you come. It will really help to bring old stories alive from behind a modern face.
Description:
Historically, Wenceslas Square (Vaclavske Namesti) has had many faces. Originally the central horse market in Prague, it later became a hub for political demonstrations (exemplified by the monument to local students who committed suicide in the square in protest of the Soviet invasion of Prague) and local celebrations (such as of major sporting victories). More like a long boulevard than an actual square, the Wenceslas Square of today is lined with restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs, and shops. At the top of the square, you'll find the square's namesake and Czech hero, St. Wenceslas, seated valiantly atop his horse. Behind him lies the National Museum and, just next to that, the Prague State Opera.
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