Lennon Wall

The Lennon Wall stands in Prague's Malá Strana district, covered in layers of colorful street art, Beatles lyrics, and social messages. What started as a single portrait of John Lennon in 1980 grew into a symbol of freedom during the Communist era. You'll find fresh artwork daily, from peace symbols to modern political statements, just steps away from the Gothic Church of Our Lady under Chain and the baroque St. Nicholas Church.

Location and Getting There

The wall sits at Velkopřevorské náměstí, a quiet square across from the French Embassy in Malá Strana. From Charles Bridge, walk down Lazenska street past the Church of Our Lady under Chain, marked by its Maltese Cross flag. Turn left at the end of the street to find the wall. The closest metro station is Malostranská on the green line A, with trams 12, 20, 22, and 23 stopping nearby at Malostranské náměstí.

Best Time to Visit

Morning hours work best for viewing and photographing the wall. You'll encounter fewer people before 10 AM and catch better natural lighting for photos. Evening visits are possible but street lighting makes it harder to see the artwork details. The wall stays open all day with no entrance fee.

Current Rules and Regulations

The Sovereign Military Order of Malta changed the wall's rules in 2019. You can write messages with pencils, markers, or chalk, but spray painting isn't allowed. Security cameras watch the area, and some sections remain reserved for authorized artists. The central part now displays a world map with "FREEDOM" written in 30 languages.

Nearby Attractions

Walk to St. Nicholas Church to see Prague's largest baroque church interior. Rest at Kampa Park's benches along the Vltava River, or learn more at the Lennon Wall Story museum on Prokopská Street 8, which displays historical photographs and Beatles memorabilia. The John Lennon Pub on Hroznová street continues the musical theme with Beatles decorations.

Historical Significance

During Communist rule (1948-1989), the wall became a place for political dissent. The government banned Western music, including Beatles songs, making John Lennon an important freedom symbol for Czech youth. After Lennon's death in 1980, his portrait appeared on the wall, starting a movement of anti-regime messages. The authorities repeatedly painted over the wall, but new artwork always returned.