The Gothic Jindřišská Tower (Jindřišská vez) is situated in Jindřišská street which has connected the three important Prague squares – Wenceslas Square, Charles Square and Senovazne Square – since the 14th century. With the height of 67.7 meters, it is considered the highest separate belfry in Prague.
The tower itself was built in 1472 – 1475 beside the Church of St Henry and Cunigunde (Kostel sv. Jindricha a Kunhuty) and it has undergone several damages caused either by foreign military troops (such as the Swedish troops in 1648) or by weather (a big storm broke the high Gothic roof in 1801). The tower clock was added in 1577. There are three big bells in Jindřišská Tower nowadays.
The oldest bell inside the tower is called Maria (made in 1518) and it weights 500kg. The largest bell is called Jindrich (made in 1680) and weights 3,350 kg. The last bell bears the name Dominik (made in 1850) that weights 1.000kg. On top of the tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city centre, including the Wenceslas Square or Prague Castle, as well as listen to the sounds of the peal whose bells are called according to original bells in Jindřišská Tower. One of the 1,100 melodies can be heard every day at 9:00, 12:00, 15:00 and 18:00. Few floors bellow is a new restaurant built in 2003 which offers a unique dining experience. This stylish restaurant is decorated with the original timbers of the belfry, as well as the bell Maria.
There are also contemporary exhibitions held in Jindřišská Tower. The tower is equipped by air-conditioning, electric lighting, a staircase and a speedy lift. What’s more, it is off the main tourist route, therefore, you can fully enjoy this historical monument undisturbed.
