Municipal House

"The site of the Municipal House was originally home to the Royal Court palace, constructed around 1380 by King Wenceslas IV. This complex served as a residence for the Kings of Bohemia from 1383 until its abandonment in 1485. Subsequently, the palace was demolished in the early 20th century. Construction of the current Municipal House began in 1905, designed by architects Osvald Polívka and Antonín Balšánek. The building was inaugurated in 1912 and has since served as a prominent cultural and social hub. Notably, the Municipal House was the venue for the Czechoslovak declaration of independence in 1918, marking its historical significance. Additionally, the roof of the building was featured in the music video for INXS's 1987 hit "New Sensation." Architecturally, the Municipal House is a prime example of Art Nouveau style, characterized by its allegorical art and intricate stucco work. Over the entrance, a mosaic titled *Homage to Prague* by Karel Špillar captures the essence of the city. Flanking the entrance are allegorical sculptures representing *The Degradation of the People* and *The Resurrection of the People*, crafted by Ladislav Šaloun. Inside, Smetana Hall functions as both a concert hall and ballroom, notable for its stunning glass dome. The interior is adorned with artwork by renowned artists such as Alfons Mucha, Jan Preisler, and Max Švabinský, contributing to the building's rich artistic heritage."

"Mel says: Art nouveau concert hall with gorgeous architecture, built in the 1910s. The first president of the First Republic of Czechoslovakia announced the start of the new nation, when he stood on the large balcony on Oct 28 1918. They named the square Republic Square thereafter. The balcony is below a mosaic artwork featuring a woman in a red dress, a legendary prophetess and founder of the old Czech royal family, Princess Libuše. Inside you can see classical music performances, or the restaurant with interior designs of famous Czech painter Alfons Mucha (the restaurant is very beautiful and historic but expensive, average food, and bad service). Underground is an art nouveau bar."

"The Municipal House stands on the site of the former Royal Court palace, built by King Wenceslas IV of Bohemia in 1380. It served as the residence for Bohemian kings until 1485, after which it was abandoned and eventually destroyed in the early 20th century. The current building, designed by Antonín Balšánek and Osvald Polívka, was completed in 1912. It was the site of the 1918 Czechoslovak declaration of independence. Today, it functions as a music hall, ballroom, and civic center, featuring a French restaurant and café on the lobby level, and an American bar and wine bar below. Many rooms are accessible only via guided tours. "