The Powder Tower

The Powder Tower, or Prašná brána, is a Gothic tower standing at the entrance to Prague's Old Town. Built in the 15th century as one of the city's original gates, it was later used to store gunpowder, giving it its name. The tower rises 65 meters and is richly decorated with statues and reliefs. Visitors can climb 186 spiral steps to the top for panoramic views of Prague's historic center, including the Old Town Square, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the spires of Týn Church. Inside, the tower houses a small exhibition on its history and the city's fortifications. The exterior is adorned with intricate stonework, including figures of kings and saints. It's a striking landmark that marks the boundary between the Old Town and the New Town.

Don't miss

• Climb the spiral staircase for views over Prague's Old Town and beyond
• Admire the Gothic stone carvings on the tower's facade
• Visit the small museum inside about the tower's history
• Walk through the archway to the bustling Celetná Street
• Photograph the tower from the adjacent Municipal House

Know before you go

• The climb is steep with 186 steps; take your time.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the stairs.
• Best photos from the top are of the Old Town rooftops.
• Combine with a visit to the nearby Municipal House for Art Nouveau interiors.

A bit of history

The Powder Tower was built in 1475 as a gate for the royal coronation route. It was damaged by fire in the 17th century and used as a gunpowder store in the 18th century, which gave it its current name. It was restored in the 19th century.