Little Quarter (Small City)

Malá Strana, also known as Lesser Town, is one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Prague. Located on the banks of the Vltava River and at the foot of Prague Castle, this area combines a picturesque atmosphere with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Officially founded in 1257 by King Ottokar II of Bohemia, Malá Strana was initially intended as a new settlement for German colonists under the castle. The strategic location of Malá Strana has always played a crucial role in its evolution. Surrounded by green hills and crisscrossed by cobblestone streets, the neighborhood experienced two major fires, one in 1419 and the other in 1541, which destroyed many of the original structures. These catastrophic events led to the reconstruction of Malá Strana in Renaissance and Baroque style, giving the neighborhood its current appearance with majestic palaces, churches, and gardens. One of the focal points of Malá Strana is the Church of St. Nicholas, a Baroque masterpiece designed by the Dientzenhofers, father and son. Built by the Jesuits between 1704 and 1755, the church is famous for its imposing dome and spectacular frescoes adorning the interiors. Its grandeur and central location in Malostranské náměstí (Lesser Town Square) make it one of the most visited and photographed monuments in Prague. The Church of Our Lady Victorious houses another treasure of Malá Strana: the statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague. This small wax statue, venerated by Catholics worldwide, attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The church itself, with its Baroque interior, offers a place of reflection and prayer for visitors. In addition to its beautiful churches, Malá Strana is famous for its gardens and parks. Among these, the Vrtba Garden is a perfect example of an Italian Baroque garden, with ornate terraces, sculptures, and a panoramic view of Prague. Kampa Island, located along the Vltava River, offers a peaceful oasis with its green meadows and picturesque water mills. The island is also home to contemporary art installations, including the famous giant baby statues by David Černý. Another distinctive feature of Malá Strana is its residential architecture. Noble palaces, such as Wallenstein Palace, with its vast gardens and inner courtyards, testify to the wealth and influence of the noble families who lived in the neighborhood. Today, many of these historic buildings house embassies, cultural institutions, and luxury hotels, maintaining the link between past and present. The unique atmosphere of Malá Strana is enriched by its cozy cafes, traditional restaurants, and historic pubs. The narrow cobblestone streets, illuminated by lanterns, offer a magical experience, especially at night when the neighborhood quiets down and reveals all its romantic beauty. It is easy to get lost in the alleys and discover hidden corners that tell stories of centuries past. The John Lennon Wall is another iconic attraction in Malá Strana. This wall, covered in graffiti and quotes inspired by John Lennon and the Beatles, has become a symbol of peace and freedom. During the communist regime, the wall was a place of youthful protest and artistic expression, and it continues to be an ever-evolving canvas for artists and visitors today. Malá Strana is also home to the Franz Kafka Museum, located along the Vltava River. This museum offers an immersion into the world of the famous Czech writer, with exhibitions exploring his life and works through photographs, manuscripts, and multimedia installations. Outside the museum, another work by David Černý, two bronze statues urinating into a fountain shaped like the Czech Republic, adds a touch of artistic provocation to the neighborhood.