Dům U Kohouta Town hall
Dům U Kohouta, located on Old Town Square in Prague, is a historical monument with a rich past and architectural changes. This Gothic townhouse, which has been part of the Old Town Hall since 1835, is remarkable in its long history and architectural transformations. Originally built as a Romanesque house in the early 13th century, it underwent several reconstructions into a Gothic and classical style.
The history of the House of Kohouta dates back to the Middle Ages when it was first mentioned in the written sources of the years 1306 and 1342 as the property of Johlin Bavaria. This house was part of a series of town hall blocks in the Old Town Square, next to Mikšov's house, Kramář Krížek and Wolflin's house by Kamene. After Johlin Bavor's house was inherited by his sons Kryštofor (Cristoforus) and Jakš (Jaxo), followed by rodina Kotků či Chotků, whose name turned to Cokota or Kohout. In 1503 it was noted that a large rooster was painted on the house, which led to a change of name to the Penížkov house.
Architecturally Dům U Kohouta is interesting with its historical layer. The original Romanesque wall with cross vaults was discovered during a construction-historical survey in the 1950s, which shows its ancient essence. The yard tract of the house has two Romanesque spaces from an extravagant block wall, which now serves as cellars. The facade to the Old Town Square is simple classicist with two-story shield closure and Gothic elements in the interior.
The house has undergone many changes of owners, from the Johlin Bavor family to the Kotky or Chotky family to the Penzek era. In 1835 the house was purchased by the Old Town Hall, which meant its integration into the building complex of the National Cultural Monuments of the Old Town Hall. This object is part of the oldest houses of the Old Town Market and was the scene of many historical events.
Today Dům U Kohouta is accessible to visitors who are interested in the history of Prague and architecture. Its rich past and transformations make this building not only a monument to the Old Town Square, but also an important place to understand the cultural and architectural development of Prague. Visiting this house offers a unique opportunity to explore the past of the city and appreciate its historical value.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 1835
- Dům U Kohouta becomes part of the Old Town Hall.
Architectural development
The original Romanesque wall with cross vaults was discovered in a survey of the 1950s. The house has been rebuilt into a Gothic style and later into a classic, which is visible on its facades.
Historical events
Dům U Kohouta has a long history that goes back to the Middle Ages. The exact date of its construction is unknown, but it is assumed that it was built in the Gothic period. In 1835 there was a significant event when the house became part of the Old Town Hall and thus gained new purpose and meaning. Since then it has been linked to the history of Prague and its self-government.
Owners
The ownership of the house at Kohout has changed over the years. Originally it was probably owned by a townsfolk family, but accurate information about its owners from the early period is not available. In 1835 the house became part of the Old Town Hall and since then it has been connected with this important institutional place. Today the house is part of the building complex of the National Cultural Monuments of the Old Town Hall.
Points of interest
- Dům U Kohouta is a Gothic townhouse, which since 1835 forms part of the Old Town Hall.
- Originally it was built as a Romanesque house in the early 13th century and underwent several reconstructions in Gothic and Classicist style.
- The history of the house dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was first mentioned in the written sources of 1306 and 1342 as the property of Johlin Bavaria.
- The original Romanesque wall with cross vaults was discovered during a construction-historical survey in the 1950s.
- The yard tract of the house has two Romanesque spaces from an extravagant block wall, which now serves as cellars.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome to one of the most famous and beautiful houses in Old Town Square in Prague. Dům U Kohouta, which forms part of the Old Town Hall, stands before you as a gem of Gothic architecture. It is a house that has undergone many historical events and changes, yet still retains its uniqueness.
Let's move forward in time and return to the beginnings of this house. The oldest mention of it dates back to the early 13th century when it was built as a Romanesque house. He was probably part of the Old Town fortification at the time. Now pay attention to his facade, which is simple and classicist with two-story shield closure. Notice how well he deals with the historical matter of the house.
Dům U Kohouta has undergone many reconstructions, but its history dates back to the Middle Ages. He was the first house to be mentioned in written sources. We should think about who might have been the first owner of this house. It could be someone like Johlin Bavor, Kryštofor (Cristoforus), Jakš (Jaxo) or rodina Kotků či Chotků. Who knows, there may be other names in the historical records.
Let's go back to the present and see the front of the house. Notice how his simple facade suits with other houses in the square. Dům U Kohouta is the jewel of Gothic architecture, which has survived to this day. It is proof that despite all historical events and changes, our city can maintain its beauty and uniqueness.
Dům U Kohouta is more than just a historical monument. It is a symbol that our city has a rich past and that its history is full of interesting stories and personalities. Come closer and look at this gem that will lead us to the world of medieval Prague.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit Dům U Kohouta is in the spring or autumn period when there is less tourist pressure and the atmosphere in Old Town Square is quieter. The sunny days are ideal for viewing, because the sun illuminates the gothic windows and architectural details of the house.
We recommend using public transport, which is well available from all over the capital.
When visiting Dům U Kohouta bring comfortable shoes because Old Town Square is full of historical and cultural attractions that are suitable for long walks. Also remember the sunglasses and UV protection cream.
Photography is great in Dům U Kohouta, especially in the shadow of Gothic window framed architectures. The best light for photos can be found in the afternoon when the sun lights up the facade from south or west. In addition, for families with children there is an interesting visit point Zoo Praha, located about 30 minutes away from Old Town Square.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
The building is in use (offices, a school, shops and the like). The interior is generally accessible only during operating hours and tours are not usually offered; we have not verified the details. You can see the exterior from the street.
Where is the monument?
Location: Staroměstské nám. 1/3, Staré Město, Praha, Hlavní město Praha. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a national cultural monument (register no. 105). It is protected as part of a larger listed ensemble.
Businesses nearby
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Events nearby
Zdroj akcí: otevřená data měst a obcí ČR (Národní katalog otevřených dat) a kalendář akcí Národního památkového ústavu.
Nearby
Dům U Kohouta is surrounded by other important monuments in the centre of Prague. It is located in Old Town Square, which itself is an important tourist attraction with a rich history. There are other historical buildings near the house, such as the Old Town Hall, which is known for its clock and plays an important role in the history of the city. The surrounding area offers many other monuments and historical places worth visiting.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
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Route Staré Město and its history:
1. Dům U Kohouta (Town Hall): The historical house, which is today the seat of the city council, is worth visiting thanks to its unique architecture and rich history. Located in the centre of Old Town and is known as one of the most beautiful houses in Prague. 2. St. Jilji Church: St. Jilji Church is located near the town hall and is one of the oldest churches in Prague. Its history dates back to the 13th century and is known for its beautiful Gothic architectural elements. 3. Old Town Hall: Although located right next to Dům U Kohouta, it is worth visiting thanks to its unique architecture and rich history. It is one of the oldest city halls in Prague and offers a beautiful view of the Staré Město. 4. Old Town Square: The square where Dům U Kohouta is located is one of the most beautiful squares in Prague. It is full of historical buildings, including the Town Hall and the church of St. Jilji, and offers beautiful views of the surroundings. 5. Crožovnik monastery: The monastery, located near the Old Town Square, is worth visiting thanks to its unique architecture and rich history. It is famous for its beautiful Gothic architectural features and offers a beautiful view of the surroundings.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: In the spring period, the house U Kohouta is beautifully lit by sunlight, which penetrates through the windows and thus opens its inner spaces. The atmosphere is full of optimism and hope, as if a new life was just waking up. If you want to visit the House of Kohout in the spring, we recommend to go to the place early in the morning to avoid crowds of tourists. The best time to visit is from 9:00 to 11:00.
Summer: In the main summer season the house U Kohouta is surrounded by a crowd of tourists who want to see this historic monument. The atmosphere is full of energy and activity, but it is also quite busy. If you want to visit the house at Kohout in the summer, we recommend to go to the place early in the morning to avoid crowds. The best time to visit is from 8:00 to 10:00.
Autumn: In autumn the house U Kohouta is surrounded by beautiful nature, which turns into colors. The atmosphere is calm and calm, as if it was already preparing for winter. If you want to visit the house U Kohouta in the autumn, we recommend going to the place during calmer days to avoid crowds. The best time to visit is from 10:00 to 13:00.
Winter: In winter, the house U Kohout is beautifully lit, but it is also relatively cold. The atmosphere is calm and calm, as if Christmas holidays were already coming. If you want to visit the house at Kohout in winter, we recommend going to a place with warm clothes to avoid cold. The best time to visit is from 9:00 to 11:00.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
Atmosphere of the place
This atmospheric visualisation of the place and period was generated by artificial intelligence. It is not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Dobroš / CC BY-SA 4.0, rozlišení zvýšeno umělou inteligencí — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
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