256 CENTRAL EASTERN EUROPE
For hotels and restaurants in this region see pp288–91 and pp292–5
Municipal House z
Obecní dům
Prague’s most prominent Art Nouveau building
was built between 1905 and 1911 on the site
of the former royal palace. On 28 October 1918,
the Municipal House was the scene of the proc-
lamation of the new independent state of
Czechoslovakia. The flamboyant interior, deco-
rated with works by leading Czech artists,
including Alfons Mucha, is well worth visiting.
It includes Prague’s top concert venue, as well
as other smaller halls, a restaurant and café.
. Mosaic by Karel Špillar
The façade has a vast semicircular
mosaic depicting Homage to Prague
by noted artist Karel Špillar.
Main Hall
Lifts in the main hall have
beautiful Art Nouveau
details and ornaments.
. Mayor’s Salon
This splendid room has furniture
by J Krejčuk and murals depicting
Czech heroes by Alfons Mucha –
a Czech master of Art Nouveau.
. Smetana Hall
The auditorium, seating 1,500, is occasionally
used as a ballroom. The box to the left of the
stage is reserved for the president of the
Republic, the one to the right, for the Mayor.
ShopsSTAR FEATURES. Mayor’s Salon
. Mosaic by Karel
Špillar
. Smetana Hall
The Glass Dome towers above
Hollar’s Hall, a circular room
next to the exhibition rooms.