Municipal House (Obecní Dum)

The finest example of Art Nouveau architecture in Prague, the Municipal House is also a triumph of artistic collaboration. Constructed between 1905 and 1911 the house, which has been painstakingly restored to its former glory, was built to the designs of Osvald Polívka and Antonín Balšánek (with the input of more than 30 other leading artists) and raised on what was once the court of the Bohemian Royal family.

The interior, which includes a number of impressive works by the world famous Czech artist Alfons Mucha, is surpassed only by the building's lavish entrance and exterior façade. Here, the central wrought iron gate and stained glass canopy are complimented by a truly delightful mosaic entitled 'Homage to Prague' which, in turn, is flanked on either side by sculptures depicting 'Humiliation and Rebirth of the Czech Nation'.

To our mind there's no better way of rounding off a visit here than by enjoying a coffee in the grand Kavárna Obecní d?m (Obecní d?m café) or a meal in either the Francouzská or Plze?ská restaurants. In addition, the Obecní D?m is built around Prague's biggest concert venue - Smetana Hall, thus providing a wonderful setting for the Prague Spring Festival as well as art exhibitions throughout the year.