Prague is often seen as a global hub for Art Nouveau, though it’s common for people to confuse it with the Secessionist style at first glance. A key way to distinguish Prague’s Art Nouveau architecture is by spotting the organic decorative elements that adorn the exteriors. You’ll often find motifs inspired by nature—trees, flowers, vines, and fruits like apples, pears, and grapes. In early examples from around 1900 to 1905, these details might be subtle, but by 1912, the style evolved, with decorative features becoming structural, such as balcony supports. While Art Nouveau originated in Belgium and gained popularity in Paris, Bohemia was slower to embrace it. However, thanks to Prague’s preservation during World War II, the city has now emerged as one of the most important centers for this architectural movement.

Prague is rich in Art Nouveau architecture, and while you can find examples scattered throughout various districts, three areas in particular stand out: Vinohrady, Ujezd, and the Jewish Quarter. These distinct neighborhoods, though different in character, share a historical connection that traces back to the year 1887.

That year marked the beginning of major urban redevelopment, including the eventual destruction of the old Jewish Ghetto. Simultaneously, the city expanded into two key areas: Vinohrady, located to the east of the National Museum, and Ujezd/Smichov, situated along the riverbank just south of Mala Strana. These districts were largely developed from scratch, and since Art Nouveau was the prevailing architectural trend at the time, many of the buildings erected in these areas followed that style. The demolition of the Jewish Quarter, which spanned two decades and ended in 1908, saw many of the new constructions in the area also embrace the Art Nouveau aesthetic. While both Vienna and Prague once boasted extensive Art Nouveau architecture, much of Vienna’s was lost during World War II, leaving Prague as one of the best-preserved examples of the style.

Art Nouveau in Prague, like Baroque, is considered a “Total” art form. It extends beyond architecture to encompass interior design, decorative arts, fine arts, graphic art, furniture, jewelry, and glasswork—everything except music. When exploring a purpose-built Art Nouveau building in Prague, the first thing you’ll notice is an ornate entranceway, often leading to a grand stone staircase with intricately designed wrought-iron railings, sometimes complemented by wall mosaics. Inside, apartments typically feature plain but elegant doors, parket flooring, high ceilings, and colored glass fixtures. French windows often open onto balconies with wrought-iron railings, offering a touch of elegance. Apartments in Vinohrady, in particular, are highly coveted for their architectural charm, with residents frequently investing in original or reproduction Art Nouveau furnishings to maintain the building’s historical integrity.

To explore Art Nouveau architecture in Prague, a great starting point is Paris Street, where nearly every building was constructed between 1902 and 1907. For a glimpse into stunning interiors, I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the Municipal House. Although it opened in 1912, toward the end of the Art Nouveau period, the building is a masterpiece in its own right. If you prefer not to join a tour, at least step into the ground-floor café to soak in the intricate design. Another favorite of mine is Cafe Louvre, a reconstructed Art Nouveau gem in the New Town. You can read more about it on my Cafes page. For those who enjoy walking tours, the Old Town and Jewish Quarter are filled with Art Nouveau architecture, offering a visual feast of this elegant style.