Historic Passages in Prague You Must See

Prague is a city full of hidden corners and unique architectural features—among them are its historic passages. These covered walkways, connecting main streets and squares, serve not only a practical purpose but also showcase the architectural styles of the last century. In this article, we’ll guide you through the most fascinating passages you shouldn’t miss when visiting Prague.

What is a passage and why are they so special in Prague?

The word passage comes from the French le passage and in architecture refers to a walkway through a building or connected structures, allowing people to pass between two streets or public areas. These spaces are often lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants, and in many cases also house cinemas, theaters, cabarets, and other entertainment venues.

Most historic passages in Prague were built at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, during a period of rapid urban development, influenced by the architecture of cities like Paris and Vienna.

Today, these passages are not only practical shortcuts but also cultural gems and important parts of Prague’s urban heritage. Many retain original architectural elements such as glass roofs, mosaic floors, and ornate ceilings, giving them a unique historic charm.

Passages are typically covered—often with glass roofs that let in natural light and create a pleasant atmosphere. Larger passages, sometimes with multiple floors, feature galleries and balconies that overlook the commercial spaces on the ground floor.

Thanks to a combination of historic charm and modern use, Prague’s passages have become popular spots not only for shopping but also for relaxing and entertainment, significantly enriching city life.

Lucerna Passage

One of the most famous passages in Prague, Lucerna Passage connects Wenceslas Square with Vodičkova Street. It was built between 1907 and 1921, designed by builder Ing. Vácslav Havel, the grandfather of former president Václav Havel. The passage is renowned for its Art Nouveau design, glass ceiling, and especially David Černý’s iconic sculpture of a hanging upside-down horse. Inside, you’ll find the legendary Lucerna Music Bar, cafés, and Lucerna Cinema—one of the oldest in Prague.

Koruna Passage

This elegant passage is located on the corner of Wenceslas Square and Na Příkopě Street, forming part of the Koruna Palace, built between 1911 and 1912. The passage features beautiful Art Nouveau decorations and a majestic dome. Once home to luxury shops, it has retained its refined atmosphere. The palace has 3 underground and 7 above-ground floors. Besides shops, you’ll also find interesting culinary spots.

Černá Růže Passage

The Černá Růže (Black Rose) Passage connects Na Příkopě and Panská Streets. The original Classicist building “At the Black Rose” was constructed in 1846–1847, designed by architect Johann Heinrich Frenzel. Between 1929 and 1933, the building was gradually reconstructed in a Functionalist style by architect Oldřich Tyl, who designed the passage connecting the two streets. The passage is known for its blend of historic and modern architecture, offering boutiques, brand stores, cafés, and a pleasant atmosphere.

Světozor Passage

Světozor Passage connects Vodičkova Street with the Franciscan Garden and is a well-known spot in central Prague. It was built in 1947 and became famous mainly for Světozor Cinema and the popular Ovocný Světozor ice cream shop. A glass roof brings in light and airiness, and the space still features original architectural elements like the Tesla mosaic logo by František Hudeček. Today it’s home to shops and cafés, contributing to its unique charm.

Platýz Passage

Platýz Passage, one of the oldest in Prague, connects Národní Street with Uhelný trh. The original Gothic palace from 1347 was converted into a Renaissance residence in 1586 by Jan Platejs, after whom the passage is named. Today it hosts cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, including the Zlatá loď stationery shop. A sculpture of an owl on the façade is considered the oldest traffic sign in Prague.

U Stýblů Passage (Alfa Palace)

Also known as Alfa Palace, this passage is located on Wenceslas Square and was built in 1928–1929 by architects Ludvík Kysela and Jan Jarolím in a Functionalist style. It originally housed the Boulevard Café, later renamed Alfa, and the Alfa Cinema. Today, the passage offers shops and eateries, including the CVRK Václavák shop, which features designer fashion, jewelry, and accessories.

Myslbek Passage

Myslbek Passage connects Na Příkopě Street with Ovocný trh in the city center. It was built in 1996 on the site of a construction gap left after the demolition of the Myslbek art pavilion in the 1930s. Its architecture is inspired by historical passages, giving it a distinctive appearance. A large glass roof allows natural light to flood the space, and the elegant interior features original design elements. Today it offers a wide variety of shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.

Kotva Passage

Kotva Passage is part of the Kotva department store, built in the 1970s and one of the largest and most modern stores in then-Czechoslovakia. The passage connects Republic Square with nearby streets and is known for its Functionalist design and wide range of shops and restaurants. In 2019, the Kotva department store was declared a cultural monument.

Adria Palace Passage

Located at the corner of Národní and Jungmannova Streets in the center of Prague, the Adria Palace was built between 1922 and 1925 in the Rondocubist style, designed by architects Josef Zasche and Pavel Janák. The façade is decorated with sculptures by Otto Gutfreund, Jan Štursa, and other prominent artists.

The passage is characterized by a circular gallery overlooking the central space, providing views into the lower floors. A grand glass ceiling brings in daylight, adding airiness and elegance to the space. The interior is luxuriously designed with marble cladding and brass elements. Today, Adria Palace is home to the “Divadlo Bez zábradlí” theater.

Jalta Passage

Jalta Passage is a historic passage located at the corner of Národní Street and Karoliny Světlé Street in central Prague. It was built between 1928 and 1929, designed by architect Jaroslav Polívka. Originally part of a luxury department store that also included a hotel, the passage now offers various shops, restaurants, and cafés while retaining the atmosphere of old Prague. Its glass ceiling lets in plenty of natural light, creating a welcoming space for visitors.