Malá Strana

Overview

Malá Strana (Lesser Town) is Prague's Baroque quarter, nestled between the castle hill and the river. Its steep cobblestone streets, pastel palaces, embassy gardens, and intimate squares feel like a quieter, more romantic Prague.

Highlights

• St. Nicholas Church: The most spectacular Baroque interior in Prague, with a 70-metre dome fresco.
• Wallenstein Garden: A free Baroque garden with peacocks, an owl wall, and a kopie of Adriaen de Vries bronzes.
• Nerudova Street: The steep lane to the castle lined with house signs—the Two Suns, the Green Lobster.

History

Founded in 1257, Malá Strana was rebuilt in Baroque style after the 1541 fire. Its palaces served as residences for Bohemian nobility.

Visitor Tips

• Walk down from the Castle: Explore on the descent from Prague Castle to Charles Bridge.
• Embassy gardens: Several embassy gardens open seasonally with free entry.
• Duration: 1–2 hours.