Wenceslas Square

"Wenceslas Square, an expansive and historically significant area in Prague, was established during the New Town's founding by Charles IV in 1348. Measuring 750 meters in length and varying in width, the square was originally known as the Horse Market, designed for horse trading and agricultural sales. Over the years, it became a vibrant marketplace where cots were built for selling saddler’s goods, fabrics, and spices. The square also served as a site for public executions, with gallows at both ends. Throughout its history, significant structures and monuments were added to the square. The Horse Gate, part of the fortifications, was constructed by the late 14th century but demolished in 1875. The square has seen various statues, including the Baroque statue of St. Wenceslas by Jan Jiří Bendl and the statue of Jan Nepomucký, both of which were later removed. A pivotal moment occurred in 1848 when Karel Havlíček Borovský proposed renaming the square to St. Wenceslas Square following significant public gatherings. In the late 19th century, the square began to undergo modernization, with the installation of gas lighting and later electric lighting. The National Museum, which opened in 1890, became a prominent feature, and tree plantings transformed the previously barren area into a more green space. The first horse-drawn tram traversed the square in 1884, and electric trams began service in 1900, marking the square’s importance in urban transport. Wenceslas Square has been the backdrop for numerous historical events, including celebrations of Czech independence in 1918 and demonstrations for general voting rights in 1905. The square witnessed crucial moments during World War II, the Soviet invasion in 1968, and the Velvet Revolution in 1989, where significant crowds gathered to protest against the communist regime. Today, it remains a central hub for cultural, social, and political life in Prague, symbolizing the city's resilience and history."

"Wenceslas Square or "Václavák" (Vatz-la-vak), as the Czechs call it, is a large public square in the New Town of Prague, known for its historic significance and vibrant atmosphere. It is lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels, and is a popular spot for events and celebrations. In 1348, Bohemian King Charles IV founded the New Town of Prague. The plan included several open areas for markets, of which the second largest was the Koňský Trh -- or Horse Market. It's more of a boulevard than a square, though in recent years the city planners keep pushing the cars further up the street and opening the bottom half for pedestrians. At the top of the square, you'll find the National Museum and good King Wenceslas on his horse. At the bottom, New Town's high street Na Přikopě. From the bottom, follow the crowd through the winding alleyway to the Astronomical clock."

"Wenceslas Square or "Václavák" (Vatz-la-vak), as the Czechs call it, is the main plaza of New Town. In 1348, Bohemian King Charles IV founded the New Town of Prague. The plan included several open areas for markets, of which the second largest was the Koňský Trh -- or Horse Market. It's more of a boulevard than a square, though in recent years the city planners keep pushing the cars further up the street and opening the bottom half for pedestrians. At the top of the square, you'll find the National Museum and good King Wenceslas on his horse. At the bottom, New Town's high street Na Přikopě. From the bottom, follow the crowd through the winding alleyway to the Astronomical clock."