Past and Present
History of Masné Krámy
The first written reference to the meat shops, a wooden structure with butchers’ shops situated on the site where Přemysl Otakar II Square is today dates from 1336. In 1364 Charles IV decreed that the meat Shops be demolished as they posed a health hazard and another site for a new wooden structure was selected – Krajinská Street where many butchers lived at that time.
The foundations of the bricked building consisted of a basilica type of layout dating from the late 16th century. The Butcher’s shops were situated along the lower side halls which were accessible both to customers from the high central hall and to suppliers from outside. The western Renaissance front with a battlement, embrasures in the attic and a gable comprising so called swallow-tails have been preserved. The eastern front was rebuilt in the early 1830s. The double stone portal is also original.
After a new town slaughter house was established in Prague Suburb in 1899, the construction and use of the shops was modified significantly. But then they gradually fell into disrepair. After 1945 the option of demolishing the entire structure was seriously considered. Eventually the meat shops were converted into a Masné krámy restaurant to J. Fidra´s design in 1953.
The Masné krámy restaurant has been renowned for its hospitality and excellent draught Budweiser Budvar beer ever since.
Photogallery
Present of Masné Krámy
The renovation project of the “Masné Krámy” restaurant combines modern technologies and the history of a basilica ground-plan building dating back to the 14th century, which it is conformed to.
The glass entrance gantry optically connects the restaurant with the street, showing the whole building in its original shape without the added features of the eras. The taproom and bar are the dominant attributes of the main hall; they are the throbbing heart of the restaurant, effusing life to the whole restaurant. Illuminated copper tanks in the cubicle behind the tap are a functional as well as aesthetic feature of the taproom, which has been designed with enough space to accommodate “barflies”.
A large alcove particularly suitable for groups has been kept to the right of the entrance, while a newly sitting area for individuals is to the left of the entrance. The whole of the back half is principally designed for eating. The main hall is optically divided by banner partitions, with tables and benches located amongst them.
The interior corresponds with the historical spirit of the building. Granite floor cover of a pavement character combined with compact oak floorboards highlights such an impression also helped by the lighting. Natural light from the street is supplemented by inside light fittings made of traditional materials, such as black metal and patina copper.
The connection to history is also represented by furnishing of strictly natural materials such as solid oak, natural leather, black mat metal and patina copper, all crafted in the finest quality of individual details.
Additionally, some modern technological elements have made their through the historical “Masné Krámy” restaurant, e.g. plasma screens, overhung projector with sound distribution in the main hall.
The re-established Masné Krámy restaurant has a capacity of 170 visitors.
Photogallery
