Around Náměstí Republiky: The Powder Tower and Municipal House
These two buildings, true Prague jewels, contrast sharply in style, reflecting the many periods and architectural styles found in Prague.
The Powder Tower, sullen and vertical, and the Municipal House, cream-colored and Art Nouveau, are linked by a small bridge.
The bridge is unusual in that its archways match the style of the Gothic tower, but it was modified in the 19th century.
Today, the old medieval fortifications which once separated the Old Town from the New Town are no longer visible. The Powser Tower was one such former gate into the Old Town of Prague. But as magnificient as these two structures are, we should not forget the other wonders found on the square. For instance, there are the old barracks, which recently were renovated and turned into a shopping mall.
At the barracks as a soldier in 1834, Josef Kajetán Tyl wrote the song which would go on to become the country's national anthem - “where is my home” for his play Fidlovačka. Also near the square, is the newly renovated customs house, which now houses offices restaurants, stores, and music clubs. Another newly renovated building is the enormous Hybernia Theatre, located directly across from the Municipal House.
