PRAGUE (AFP) - Prague city lawmakers have swallowed their pride and caved to protests against plans to ditch one of the capital's most succulent landmarks -- the sausage stands in central Wenceslas Square.

The stands were due to shut as part of a facelift for the famous square but popular opposition, marked by the collection of thousands of signatures against the measure, forced lawmakers to back down.

"Prague klobasa are one of the typical culinary delicacies of the city. Locals and visitors want to save this long tradition and we respect their views," deputy mayor and former critic of the stands, Rudolf Blazek announced, paying homage to the popular, greasy sausages on offer around the clock.

Still, the number of stands and their opening hours will be pared in the future, and vendors will be banned from selling spirits.