Why Prague Is Called
The City of a Hundred Spires

The Story Behind the Nickname

Prague is often called “The City of a Hundred Spires” — but the real number is far higher. The nickname became popular in the early 19th century, when an influential mathematician and philosopher, Bernard Bolzano, claimed that Prague had around 103 significant towers and spires.

Today, depending on how you count, the city boasts more than 500–1,000 spires.

1. Why Prague Has So Many Spires

For centuries, Prague was a center of religion, science and royal power. Each era added its own towers:

• Romanesque towers from early medieval churches
• Gothic spires from the age of kings and cathedrals
• Baroque domes after the Thirty Years’ War
• Renaissance and Art Nouveau rooftops in later centuries

This mix created the layered skyline you see today — a blend of different architectural styles in one place.

2. The Most Famous Spires in Prague

🕍 St. Vitus Cathedral (Prague Castle)

The tallest and most famous pair of spires in the city, dominating the castle hill. They define Prague’s silhouette and can be seen from almost anywhere.

⛪ Church of Our Lady before Týn

The dramatic twin Gothic towers above Old Town Square — often found on postcards and travel photos. Each tower is intentionally different, symbolizing the balance of masculine and feminine elements.

🌉 Charles Bridge Towers

At both ends of Charles Bridge stand medieval gate towers that once protected the city. Today, they offer some of the best views in Prague.

📚 Old Town Hall Tower

Home to the Astronomical Clock, this tower has watched over Old Town Square since the 14th century.

⛲ St. Nicholas Church (Malá Strana)

A masterpiece of Baroque architecture with a monumental dome and bell tower.

3. How the Spires Shaped the City

In medieval Europe, tall structures were more than decoration. They symbolized:

• Power — religious and civic
• Prosperity — taller buildings meant wealth
• Navigation — travelers used spires to orient themselves

From any hill in Prague, you’ll see dozens of rooftops rising above the streets — a visual reminder of the city’s long history.

4. A Skyline That Survived Centuries

Unlike many European cities, Prague avoided large-scale destruction during the 20th century. As a result, its historical skyline — with hundreds of towers — survived nearly intact.

5. Fun Facts About Prague's Spires

• Prague has more towers per square kilometer than almost any European capital.
• Some church towers were used as fire watch posts for centuries.
• Many spires contain old bells that still ring manually.
• The tallest spire in Prague belongs to St. Vitus Cathedral (96 meters).