A simple wall on one of Prague's streets has become an exciting spot for expressing social and political views. Everything started with the first graffiti of John Lennon, a symbol of freedom and political & cultural struggle, and pieces of lyrics from Beatles' songs in the 1980s. Since that time, Lennon Wall in Prague has become a way to protest for local people, especially the youth.
In 1988, the wall was a place for a protest against Gustáv Husák's communist regime. Young Czechs underlined their disagreement and grievances against the newly-installed communist government, which led to a skirmish between them and security police on the Charles Bridge. This movement was known as Lennonism.
Some lyrics from Western pop songs, which were not approved by socialist authorities, appeared on the wall together with portraits of pop idols. Later on, the messages on the wall became more political. In terms of its significance, Lennon Wall is Prague's equivalent to the Berlin Wall. With hundreds of inspiring lyrics and positive messages, it's a symbol of freedom, peace, free speech, and love.
The wall has been repainted a number of times, but the Lennon theme still continues with graffiti portraits, songs, and peace messages. Nowadays, Lennon Wall is a famous place for leaving any sort of messages and small masterpieces for both tourists and locals alike.
Located in Prague's most central district, Praha 1, Lennon Wall can easily be reached from the Charles Bridge. You may even bump into performers recreating Beatles songs, helping you plunge into this revolutionary atmosphere. Also, just around the corner, there is a pub dedicated to John Lennon.
The best time to visit Lennon Wall
The best time to visit Lennon Wall is early fall or late spring, just after and before the peak summer tourist season. In September and May, the temperature is around 64 to 68°F (18 to 20°C), making it ideal for sightseeing without crowds of people.
Practical info
What does Lennon Wall represent in Prague?
The graffiti-covered Lennon Wall in Prague represents freedom, peaceful protest, free speech, and love. It once featured only John Lennon's portrait, but it has since become a canvas for expressing political and social views. The wall is adorned with poetry and positive messages, and it is a place of congregation for the youth who engage in the political and cultural debates. Show more
What is the location of Lennon Wall in Prague?
Lennon Wall is situated in the central district of Praha 1 in Prague, near Charles Bridge. The site is a hub of activity where tourists can see performances of Beatles' tunes and experience the revolutionary atmosphere. Close to the wall is a pub dedicated solely to John Lennon. To reach the wall, tourists can take a stroll from Charles Bridge. Show more
When did the Lennonism protest movement occur?
Lennonism is a protest movement that occurred in 1988 as a rebellion against the communist regime of Gustáv Husák in Czechoslovakia. The youthful Czechs raised their voices in opposition, using slogans to express their dissent and grievances against the newly-installed government. The Lennonism movement sparked a clash between young Czechs and security police on Charles Bridge and marked a message of resistance against the socialist government of the time. Show more
What is the recommended time to visit Lennon Wall in Prague?
Early fall and late spring are the best times to visit Lennon Wall in Prague, specifically September and May. During that time, the temperature ranges from 18 to 20°C (64 to 68°F), which is comfortable for sightseeing without the heavy crowds that visit during peak season. The touristic season starts in late spring as temperatures increase, but the best time to visit is right before or after the height of the season. Show more
Is it possible to leave a message on Lennon Wall in Prague?
Yes, tourists and locals are free to leave their messages, art, and expressions of political views, love, memorials, freedom, and peace on Lennon Wall in Prague. It is a famous and meaningful location where visitors can come and sign their name, as well as leaving a personal message to commemorate their visit or contribute to the spirit of the site. It is an excellent place for people to freely express themselves. Show more
