The Powder Tower

The Powder Tower in Prague is a 65-meter-tall (213-foot) gate tower on Republic Square that serves as a monumental entrance to the Old Town. Originally built in the 15th century under King Vladislav II Jagiello, it embodies the late Gothic style in Bohemia. Its name comes from its use as a gunpowder magazine until the end of the 17th century. After heavy damage during the Seven Years' War, the structure was restored in the Neo-Gothic style in the 19th century, when many of today's decorative elements and the statues of Bohemian kings on the facades were added. Today the tower marks the start of Celetná Street, which is part of the historic Royal Way to Prague Castle, and stands right next to the Art Nouveau Municipal House.