The Powder Tower (Prašná brána) is a late-Gothic gate tower marking the entrance to Prague's Old Town, with its foundation stone laid in 1475. Once one of the 13 city gates ringing the medieval Old Town, it is famous as the starting point of the Royal (Coronation) Route along which Bohemian kings processed to Prague Castle. Its name comes from its use as a gunpowder store in the 18th century, and its present look was completed in an 1878–1886 neo-Gothic restoration led by architect Josef Mocker. In 2026 it is operated by Prague City Tourism, and visitors climb 186 spiral steps to a viewing gallery 44 m up for sweeping views over the Old Town rooftops and Prague Castle.
The 44 m viewing gallery with its panorama of the Old Town's red rooftops and Prague Castle
Matěj Rejsek's late-Gothic stone carvings, pointed arches and sculpted figures
The start of the Royal Route to Prague Castle — the symbolic gate of the coronation processions
The striking Gothic–Art Nouveau contrast with the adjoining Municipal House (Obecní dům), linked by a covered passage
The interior history exhibition and the experience of climbing the 186-step spiral staircase
Good to know
SafetyThere is no elevator; reaching the 44 m gallery means climbing 186 narrow, steep spiral steps. Pace yourself if you have knee or heart issues or are carrying a small child.
CautionPickpockets work the crowds at náměstí Republiky, the Palladium mall, trams and the metro. Wear your bag in front and keep your wallet and phone out of outer pockets.
CautionStreet exchange booths advertising '0% commission' often give poor rates. When paying by card, always choose Czech koruna (CZK), not your home currency (decline DCC), and change money only at reputable offices.
RulesFines for riding public transport without a ticket are steep. If you use metro line B (Náměstí Republiky), buy a ticket or travel pass and validate it in the machine when you board.
SeasonOn summer afternoons (June–September) the stairwell and terrace have no air conditioning and get hot, while in winter the steps and gallery can be slippery. The 50% discount in the first hour after opening is also the least crowded time.
MannersA tip of around 10% is customary in nearby restaurants and cafés. Keep some small koruna notes and coins handy, though cards are widely accepted.
Practical info
The tower is a 1–2 minute walk from Náměstí Republiky station on metro line B (yellow), right next to the Art Nouveau Municipal House. Opening hours vary by season (e.g. 09:00–20:30 in summer), the adult ticket is around 200 CZK, and a 50% discount applies in the first hour after opening — but confirm exact prices and hours on the official Prague City Tourism page before you go.
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