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Wenceslas Square (Vaclavske Namesti) is one of two main squares in the city centre (the Old Town Square is the other, 5 minutes walk away), and as such is a very popular place to stay. Wenceslas Square in Prague is a vibrant area of hotels, apartments, restaurants, bars, clubs and shops. There is nightlife and entertainment all around Wenceslas Square, and an array of international shops. Prague's main shopping area begins here. Wenceslas Square offers easy walking access to all Prague's sights & attractions. From here you can reach anywhere in the city centre.
The 750m long and 60m wide boulevard that makes up Wenceslas Square was laid out over 600 years ago during the reign of Charles IV. It was originally used as the Prague horse market. Over the years the square has been a regular parade ground for all kinds of organisations and political parties. From anti-communist uprisings to celebrations of national sporting achievements, Wenceslas Square is where the Czech's come to let off steam. It can comfortably hold up to 400,000 people!
At the top of Wenceslas Square, the statue of St. Wenceslas on his horse cuts a striking figure. This is good King Wenceslas (Vaclav), murdered over a thousand years ago by his brother, and now a Czech national hero.
In front of St. Wenceslas are two plaques in memory of those killed during the Communist era. One is dedicated to Jan Palach, who set himself on fire in protest at the Soviet invasion. Behind St. Wenceslas is the monumental National Museum, and just off to the left is the Prague State Opera.
