Nová radnice building of Prague City Hall at Mariánské náměstí

New City Hall

New City Hall Prague Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: New City Hall and New Town Hall in Prague

Prague is world-famous for its historic architecture and vibrant civic life, offering visitors a chance to explore two prominent municipal landmarks: the New Town Hall (Novoměstská radnice) and the New City Hall (Nová radnice). These buildings, situated in different parts of the city, serve as both architectural gems and living witnesses to Prague’s evolving political and cultural identity. The New Town Hall at Karlovo náměstí symbolizes the ambitions of Emperor Charles IV and is etched into history as the site of the First Defenestration of Prague in 1419 (Living Prague, Tours Prague). In contrast, the New City Hall at Mariánské náměstí represents Prague’s contemporary administrative heart, renowned for its early 20th-century Baroque revival and Art Nouveau architecture and its famous paternoster elevator (Pragitecture, Expats.cz).

Both halls are integral to Prague’s urban and cultural landscape, located in areas that have recently benefited from major revitalization efforts to enhance accessibility, sustainability, and the visitor experience (Expats.cz). Whether your interest lies in medieval history, modern engineering, or dynamic public spaces, this guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, tickets, tours, accessibility, and nearby attractions at both the New Town Hall and New City Hall (prague.fm, Prague Forum).

Introduction
Medieval Foundations and Urban Ambitions
Architectural Evolution: Gothic to Renaissance
The First Prague Defenestration
Visiting the New Town Hall: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
The New City Hall: Civic Role and Architectural Heritage
The Paternoster Elevator: History and Tours
Renovation and Revitalization at Mariánské náměstí
Accessibility and Sustainability Measures
Guided Tours and Events
FAQs
Conclusion and Final Tips
References

Medieval Foundations and Urban Ambitions: New Town Hall Prague

The New Town Hall was established in the late 14th century as the administrative center of Prague’s New Town (Nové Město), a district created by Emperor Charles IV in 1348 to extend the city’s influence and support economic growth (Living Prague). Construction began in 1377, featuring a Gothic eastern wing by 1398 (Tours Prague). The hall’s strategic location between Charles Square and Vodickova Street underscored its significance in governing an expanding and prosperous district.

Architectural Evolution: From Gothic to Renaissance

The New Town Hall’s architecture reflects Prague’s stylistic transitions. Its original Gothic structure features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and an expansive main hall. Significant Renaissance modifications in the 16th century included a redesigned façade by Benedict Ried and the addition of shields, symbolizing the city’s wealth and openness to new artistic trends. The 70-meter tower, added in the 15th century, became a prominent city landmark with panoramic views of the Prague skyline (Living Prague).

The First Prague Defenestration: A Turning Point in Czech History

On July 30, 1419, the New Town Hall was the scene of the First Defenestration of Prague—a pivotal event when Hussite supporters, led by Jan Želivský, stormed the building and threw Catholic councilors from the windows after their demands for the release of imprisoned followers were denied (Tours Prague). This act triggered the Hussite Wars and remains a defining moment in Czech history.

Visiting the New Town Hall: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Opening Hours: Generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; hours may vary with seasons or events.
Tickets: Standard admission is around 150 CZK (~7 USD), with discounts for students, seniors, and children. Tickets are available onsite and online.
Guided Tours: Multilingual tours provide deep dives into history, architecture, and the defenestration event.
Accessibility: The hall is wheelchair accessible, and photography is allowed, especially from the panoramic tower gallery.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Located near major tram and metro stops at Karlovo náměstí, the New Town Hall is easily accessible. Combine your visit with Charles Square, the Church of Our Lady of the Snows, and Wenceslas Square for a full historical experience. Special events—such as cultural festivals and historical reenactments—are often held at the hall; check the official event calendar for details.

The New City Hall: Civic Role and Architectural Heritage

Situated at Mariánské náměstí in the Old Town, the New City Hall has functioned as Prague’s primary administrative hub since 1945 (Wikipedia, Pragitecture). The building showcases Baroque revival and Art Nouveau elements by Osvald Polívka, with allegorical sculptures by Josef Mařatka and Stanislav Sucharda and folklore figures like Rabbi Loew and the Iron Knight (View from Prague).

Grand Council Chamber: Hosts major meetings and public events, reflecting Prague’s democratic traditions (Prague Forum).
Guided Tours: Available on weekends, public holidays, and select evenings—advance booking recommended.

The Paternoster Elevator: Unique Engineering and Tours

The paternoster elevator, installed in 1911, is Prague’s first and a rare surviving example of this engineering marvel (View from Prague). Tours include a ride on the elevator (for visitors 18+), a visit to the marble staircase, and the Grand Council Chamber. After extensive renovations, the elevator reopened in June 2024, ensuring safety and enhancing the visitor experience (Expats.cz).

Renovation and Revitalization at Mariánské náměstí

The area around New City Hall is undergoing significant transformation as part of Prague’s commitment to sustainable and accessible urban spaces (Expats.cz). Key improvements include:

Pedestrianization and removal of vehicular traffic
New benches, mobile chairs, and shaded areas with trees
Water features such as fountains and mist nozzles
Enhanced accessibility with ramps and tactile guides
Eco-friendly renovations and rainwater management systems

These measures aim to create a welcoming environment—a “common living room” in the heart of Prague.

Accessibility and Sustainability Measures

Both New City Hall and the revitalized Mariánské náměstí prioritize barrier-free access for visitors with limited mobility. Public transport connections are excellent, and eco-friendly building practices underline Prague’s focus on sustainability.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Offered in multiple languages, covering the building’s history, architecture, and unique features. Bookings are available online or at the venue.
Special Events: Seasonal markets, open-air exhibitions, and cultural festivals are regularly held at Mariánské náměstí and in the ceremonial halls of the New Town Hall.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the New Town Hall and New City Hall?
A: New Town Hall is generally open daily 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. New City Hall tours are available on weekends, public holidays, and selected evenings, and the building is open Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: New Town Hall: Standard ticket 150 CZK; New City Hall guided tour: 250 CZK adults, 170 CZK seniors/students.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, both halls offer tours in multiple languages, including English.

Q: Is wheelchair access available?
A: Yes, both sites provide barrier-free access, though the tower climb at New Town Hall may not be suitable for all.

Q: What is the paternoster elevator?
A: It is a historic, continuously moving elevator—accessible only via guided tours for visitors over 18.

Q: What nearby attractions are recommended?
A: Charles Square, Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, the Municipal Library, and the Klementinum.

Visuals and Media

(Insert high-quality images: “New Town Hall Prague Gothic architecture,” “Interior hall of New Town Hall,” “Panoramic view from New Town Hall tower,” “New City Hall Prague facade,” “Paternoster elevator in New City Hall,” “Renovated Mariánské náměstí public space”)

Interactive maps and virtual tours are available on the official city and tourism websites.

Conclusion and Final Tips

The New Town Hall and New City Hall are essential stops for anyone interested in Prague’s layered history, architectural splendor, and civic life. From the medieval drama of the First Defenestration to the Art Nouveau elegance of the city’s administrative center, these halls offer immersive experiences that bridge past and present. Ongoing renovations at Mariánské náměstí further enhance accessibility and visitor enjoyment, embodying Prague’s commitment to a vibrant urban environment (Pragitecture, Expats.cz).

Plan your visit by checking opening times, booking tours in advance, and exploring nearby historical sites. For real-time updates, audio guides, and exclusive content, download the Audiala app and connect with official city channels.