What is the History of Powder Gate and Royal Route?

The Powder Gate, or Powder Tower, was built in 1475. It replaced an older city gate that had fallen into ruin. King Vladislaus II Jagiellon laid the first foundation stone. It was meant to be a grand entrance rather than a defensive fort. The tower was modeled after the Old Town Bridge Tower. Its name comes from the 18th century. At that time, it was used to store gunpowder.

The Royal Route is the path that follows this gate. It winds through the Old Town and across the river. For centuries, every new king followed this specific trail. It symbolizes the connection between the people and the crown. The route ends at the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral. Walking it today feels like stepping back in time. You can still see royal symbols carved into many buildings.

10 Essential Stops Along the Royal Route

To truly experience the history of Powder Gate and Royal Route, follow these stops. Each location played a role in the city's royal past. Here are the top picks for your 2026 itinerary:

• Best overall: Powder Tower
• Best for views: Old Town Hall Tower
• Best for families: Charles Bridge
• Best free activity: Walking Celetná Street

1. Name: Powder Tower (Prašná brána) Type: sight Why go: It is the official start of the Royal Route. Best for: History buffs. Where: Na Příkopě. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate for climb. Tip: Learn more about the Powder Tower history and climb before you go.
2. Name: Municipal House Type: sight Why go: It stands on the site of the former Royal Court. Best for: Art Nouveau fans. Where: Náměstí Republiky. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view exterior. Tip: Visit the cafe inside for a luxury experience.
3. Name: Celetná Street Type: experience Why go: One of the oldest streets in Prague. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Between Powder Tower and Old Town Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look up to see the House of the Black Madonna.
4. Name: Old Town Square Type: sight Why go: The historic heart of the city. Best for: Everyone. Where: Staroměstské náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: Arrive on the hour to see the Astronomical Clock.
5. Name: Old Town Hall Type: sight Why go: It offers the best view of the Royal Route path. Best for: Photographers. Where: Old Town Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Use the elevator if you want to skip the stairs.
6. Name: Karlova Street Type: experience Why go: A winding medieval lane leading to the bridge. Best for: Atmosphere. Where: Old Town. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This street gets very crowded in the afternoon.
7. Name: Charles Bridge Type: sight Why go: The most iconic river crossing in Europe. Best for: Romance and views. Where: Connecting Old Town and Lesser Town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Read about the Charles Bridge statues and towers to spot the best ones.
8. Name: Lesser Town Square Type: sight Why go: Home to the stunning St. Nicholas Church. Best for: Baroque architecture. Where: Malostranské náměstí. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free to walk. Tip: Take a break at one of the traditional pubs here.
9. Name: Nerudova Street Type: experience Why go: Famous for its historic house signs. Best for: Unique details. Where: Leading up to the Castle. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the "Two Suns" and "Green Lobster" signs.
10. Name: Prague Castle Type: sight Why go: The final destination of the Royal Route. Best for: Grandeur. Where: Hradčany. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: High for full circuit. Tip: Check the Prague Castle history and tickets for the best entry deals.

Tips for Walking the Royal Route in 2026

Walking the entire route takes about two hours at a steady pace. However, you should allow a full day to enjoy the stops. Wear comfortable shoes because the cobblestones are uneven. Many travelers start early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds. Sunrise on Charles Bridge is a magical experience. You can find official maps and updates at the Prague tourism portal.

In 2026, expect most sites to require digital tickets. You can often buy these via QR codes at the entrance. The Powder Tower remains a popular spot for a quick climb. It offers a unique perspective of the Old Town rooftops. Remember that the route is uphill once you cross the river. Take your time on Nerudova Street to enjoy the small shops.