Little Square (Malé Náměstí)
Square in Prague
Little Square, or Malé Náměstí, is a charming and historic spot in Prague’s Old Town. As you round the corner from the New City Hall, you’ll be greeted by a picturesque scene of tightly packed, colorful buildings. This square is believed to be the oldest inhabited part of Prague, with homes dating back to the 700s. Its current layout was established between the 1100s and 1200s, featuring narrow Gothic houses that later evolved into Renaissance-style buildings. Remarkably, many of these structures still retain Romanesque cellars from the early Middle Ages, adding to the square’s historical allure.
One of the standout buildings in Little Square is the V.J. Rott House, a stunning four-story structure adorned with a mural depicting Medieval tradespeople. Built in 1896 by Ladislav Rott, the house replaced an older 13th-century building known as “At the Three White Roses.” Today, the Rott House is home to the Hard Rock Cafe and the Rott Hotel, blending its historical significance with modern uses. Adjacent to it is the White Lion building, which, despite being from the 1800s, boasts a Gothic doorway dating back to the 1300s.
At the heart of Little Square lies the Iron Fountain, Prague’s oldest well. A formal fountain has existed here since the 1100s, and the gilded iron gate surrounding it was crafted in 1560. The fountain has withstood the test of time and remains a centerpiece of the square, complementing the outdoor restaurants that line the area. These eateries, set on raised wooden planks, provide a delightful spot to enjoy the square’s vibrant atmosphere.
For a deeper connection to the past, take note of the Medieval icons above the doorways in Little Square. These symbols, such as the Golden Fish, Blue Horse, and Golden Sun, were used to identify buildings in an era when literacy was uncommon. These icons are a recurring theme throughout Prague’s Old Town and offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history and culture. Little Square is a must-visit destination that beautifully encapsulates Prague’s rich heritage.
The Little Square (Malé Náměstí) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!
Visiting Little Square (Malé Náměstí)
Nearby Attractions
- House At The Minute (0.0) km
Historic Building in Prague - Karlova Street (0.1) km
Street in Prague - Astronomical Clock, Prague (0.1) km
Tower in Prague - Old Town Hall in Prague (0.1) km
Town Hall in Prague - 1621 Memorial Crosses (0.1) km
Monument in Prague - New City Hall (Nová radnice) (0.1) km
Town Hall in Prague - Marian Colum (0.1) km
Monument in Prague - Church of St. Nicholas (Old Town) (0.1) km
Church in Prague - Old Town Square, Prague (0.1) km
Square in Prague - The Prague Meridian (0.1) km
in Prague
