Prague Metronome (Prazský Metronom)
Nábřeží Edvarda Beneše, Prague, Czech Republic, 118 00
On Letná Hill, the Prague Metronome occupies the plinth that once held a 30-foot (9-meter), 17,000-ton statue of Joseph Stalin, unveiled in 1955. After the statue was demolished in 1962, the plinth sat empty until 1991 when Czech artist Vratislav Novák designed and constructed a massive, functioning metronome. Today, it is a well-loved landmark on Prague’s skyline.
The basics
Novák’s triangular metronome has a bright-red arm that is 75 feet (23 meters) long and clearly visible from Prague Castle, as well as from the river and its bridges below. The graffiti-covered area immediately surrounding the metronome is a popular skate park and also serves as a viewing point and photographic backdrop.
Sightseeing tours by bike, electric scooter, and Segway often stop at a viewpoint so that you can take photos of the metronome. At night the installation is illuminated and makes for a great view while on a dinner cruise along the Vltava River.
Things to know before you go
- Prague Metronome is a must-visit for anyone interested in Czech history.
- There is no admission fee to access the site.
- The plinth is often occupied by pop-up bars and art exhibitions.
How to get there
Just a 15-minute walk, over the Charles Bridge, from Old Town Square, the Prague Metronome is easily accessible from the center. If traveling by Prague Metro, take Line A to Malostranská (a 10-minute walk), or take tram number 1, 8, 25, or 26 to Letenské náměstí (a 12-minute walk).
When to get there
The Prague Metronome is always accessible. The ideal time to visit is summer when you can soak up the sun on the grassy lawn of Letná Hill while enjoying the view.
Letná Park
Letná Park, located on Letná Hill, overlooks the Vltava River and offers great views over the graceful baroque spires of Prague’s Old Town. The park is well known for its beer gardens, bars, and picnic spots, making it a great place to linger after checking out the metronome.
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