St. Henry’s Tower (Jindřišská Věž)
Tower in Prague
Rising 67.7 meters above Prague’s New Town, St. Henry’s Tower—known locally as Jindřišská Věž—is the tallest free-standing belfry in the city. A dramatic example of late Gothic architecture, it was constructed in 1475 alongside the Church of St. Henry, and for centuries has stood watch over Jindřišská Street—a historic thoroughfare linking Wenceslas, Charles, and Senovážné Squares. Its slender profile, pointed arches, and commanding clock face make it an eye-catching anomaly among Prague’s more ornate domes and Baroque spires.
The tower has weathered its share of destruction. During the Thirty Years’ War in 1648, Swedish troops inflicted considerable damage, and a violent storm in 1801 ripped off its roof entirely. Yet it has always been restored, reflecting the city’s commitment to preserving its layered past. A clock was added in 1577, and more recently, the addition of a modern carillon—comprised of ten digitally operated bronze bells—has transformed the tower into a living musical instrument. Every fifteen minutes, a tune chimes out over the rooftops, with a full melodic concert playing every four hours, bringing the old city to life with sound.
What sets Jindřišská Věž apart from other surviving medieval towers is its imaginative adaptation for modern use. A major restoration project has equipped the tower with full climate control, modern lighting, and a high-speed elevator that makes ascending its ten floors easy and enjoyable. Inside, you’ll find a stylish café, a restaurant, and a small museum dedicated to the towers of Prague. Exhibition spaces host rotating art and history displays, while the uppermost level offers a panoramic view across the city’s rooftops—a vantage point that rewards those seeking a quieter, lesser-known outlook over Prague.
Why You Should Visit:
St. Henry’s Tower is more than a historic structure—it’s a blend of old and new, where Gothic stonework meets contemporary cultural life. Whether you’re interested in Prague’s architectural history, want to enjoy a coffee with a view, or simply appreciate finding hidden gems beyond the typical tourist trail, Jindřišská Věž offers a unique and atmospheric escape right in the heart of the city.
The St. Henry’s Tower (Jindřišská Věž) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting St. Henry’s Tower (Jindřišská Věž)
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