Prague Castle Powder Tower

• The Powder Tower, or Prašná brána, is one of the original 13 gates to Prague, built in 1475 as part of the Old Town's fortifications by King Vladislaus II. Once a city entry point, it became obsolete as the city expanded. Today, it marks the boundary of the Old Town and stands as a popular landmark, with an inscription commemorating its foundation by the king, ‘Behold the great building, founded with the hands of the high king Vladislaus, born of the noble blood of dukes and emperors.’
• The construction of the tower was funded by the Prague aldermen, symbolized by a prominent town emblem on the structure that showcased the city's pride in its connection to the ruler. Initially led by architect Master Václav, the project was later handed to Matěj Rejsek of Prostějov, a rector, teacher, and self-taught stonemason, due to a shortage of skilled stonecutters at the time.
• In the 17th century, the Prague Powder Tower was used to store gunpowder, which is how it got its current name. Originally, it was called the ‘New Tower,’ likely because it was modeled after the Old Town Bridge Tower on the opposite side of the Old Town.

The Powder Tower is open daily with the following hours:

• November to February: 10am to 5pm
• March: 10am to 6pm
• April: 10am to 7pm
• May to September: 10am to 10pm
• October: 10am to 7pm