|
|
The old town square (Staromestské námestí) and the surrounding quarter form the heart of the city of Prague. In the 14th century the city built around the Prague Castle expanded to the right bank and as early as 1091 a market existed at the site of the old town square. The square and surrounding streets are pedestrian zones, and during summertime it is filled with terraces from where the many tourists can relax in the middle of many remarkable medieval buildings.On your way across the square you will pass by a group of 27 white crosses embedded in the pavement next to the Old Town Square. On this spot, 27 Czech Protestants were beheaded in 1621 by the Habsburgs; an event that ended the first phase of the Thirty Years' War and began the return of Bohemia to Catholicism. Unique paving- stone patterns are something to look out for when walking through the city: Designs and symbols on the pavement commemorate historical events and speak of legends. |
