Prague commuters will experience significant metro service disruptions over the weekend, with the Muzeum–Kačerov section of Line C closed in both directions on Saturday and Sunday, February 1 and 2.

The Prague Transport Company announced the closure as part of essential road repair work.

A replacement X-C bus service will operate during the closure to accommodate affected passengers. The temporary route includes stops at:

• Hlavní nádraží
• Muzeum
• I.P. Pavlova
• Vyšehrad
• Pražského povstání
• Pankrác
• Budějovická
• Kačerov

For further details on the service disruption, travelers can find information directly on the official Prague Transport Company website.

Normal metro operations are scheduled to resume on the morning of Monday, February 3.

The Czech Senate has passed a law that effectively bars Russian nationals from obtaining Czech citizenship.

The legislation, titled Lex Ukraine, primarily focuses on extending temporary protections for Ukrainian refugees, with provisions targeting citizenship for Russians included as amendments.

Under the new law, applications for Czech citizenship from Russian nationals will only be considered after the Russia-Ukraine war ends. The law also requires Russian citizens to renounce their Russian citizenship before becoming Czech citizens. All pending citizenship applications from Russians will be frozen.

Exceptions are made for minors, asylum seekers, and opponents of the Russian regime. However, the law does not clarify how Russians seeking citizenship must prove their status as dissidents.

The legislation also introduces criminal penalties for “unauthorized cooperation with a foreign state,” a provision critics argue could be used for political repression.

The law was supported by only 21 of the Senate’s 73 members. However, since dissenting senators did not propose amendments, the legislation is considered approved. It now awaits the president’s signature, which is expected to be a formality given his earlier comments that he is not opposed to the measure.

Human rights advocates and members of the Russian community in the Czech Republic have criticized the ban, calling it discriminatory to target the citizens of a single country.

Supporters of the amendments argue that acquiring citizenship is not a fundamental right and, therefore, the policy cannot be considered discriminatory.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Czech Republic has imposed some of the European Union’s strictest restrictions on Russian nationals, including a total suspension of tourist visas and new residence permits, as well as a ban on direct entry from outside the Schengen Zone.

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The upcoming fourth edition of the Composers Summit Prague, which brings the greatest names in contemporary film and gaming music to the Czech capital, will feature star composer Christophe Beck.

The Canadian artist, celebrated for shaping the distinctive sounds of blockbusters like Frozen and Marvel’s Ant-Man trilogy, will join an already extraordinary lineup of global icons.

The most prestigious event of its kind in Europe will take place in Prague from April 17 to 22. In light of the tragic wildfires in Los Angeles that have directly impacted participants, the newly announced closing concert on the summit’s final day will be a charity event.

Tickets are available at composers-summit.com or via Ticketportal.

Already announced highlights of this year’s Composers Summit Prague include South Korean composer Jung Jaeil, known for Squid Game and Oscar-winning Parasite, and acclaimed composer duos such as Mychael and Jeff Danna and Harry and Rupert Gregson-Williams.

Thanks to Harry Gregson-Williams, the closing concert will feature the live premiere of music from last year’s sequel to the iconic film Gladiator, which is a strong contender for an Academy Award nomination.

The event organizers have now revealed the summit’s headlining name: Christophe Beck.

 

A Montreal native, Beck is among the most successful composers in film and television music over the past three decades. His international acclaim stems particularly from his work on Disney projects and their subsidiaries.

Beck composed the music for the animated musical Frozen (2013), whose soundtrack sold over 10 million copies worldwide, achieving triple platinum status in the United States. With 13 weeks atop the U.S. album charts, it ranked just behind the legendary Titanic soundtrack. Beck also contributed to Let It Go, written by songwriting duo Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez.

The song, performed by both Idina Menzel and Demi Lovato, became a global sensation, earning an Oscar, a Grammy, and a Golden Globe nomination. In the Czech Republic, it was famously sung by Monika Absolonová under the title Najednou.

Beck’s distinguished career includes work on Frozen II, Marvel’s Ant-Man trilogy, The Muppets musical, and numerous Shawn Levy-directed comedies (Big Fat Liar, Cheaper by the Dozen, The Pink Panther, and Free Guy). His contributions also extend to TV miniseries like WandaVision and Hawkeye, as well as the fantasy series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, for which he won a 1998 Emmy Award for one episode.

This year, organizers are preparing three special concerts accompanied by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra.

The Opening Night, bringing together nearly all participating composers on one stage, will take place in the grandeur of the Municipal House on April 17. Music from iconic films like Aquaman, Shrek, Parasite, Hannibal, Captain Marvel, 500 Days of Summer, and Ronin will be featured, as well as game soundtracks like Warhammer 40000 by Jesper Kyd.

On April 19, the highly anticipated Squid Game performance will showcase South Korean composer Jung Jaeil’s European debut. During this world premiere, music from the second season of the acclaimed Netflix series will be performed. The event will take place at the renovated New Spiral venue, renowned for its unique revolving stage and circular seating, amplifying the immersive experience of the performance. A visual show accompanying the music will transport audiences directly into Netflix’s most-watched series.

The newly announced Closing Concert on April 22, held at the Grand Hall of the Trade Fair Palace, promises to be the summit’s grand finale.

In response to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles that have affected many in the industry, the closing concert will serve as a fundraiser. Christophe Beck and Jeff Danna lost their homes in the fires, while Harry Gregson-Williams had to evacuate.

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The world-famous musical The Phantom of the Opera will debut in Prague from March 19 to April 6, 2025, at the Prague Congress Centre.

The original production will be performed with the cast from London’s Her Majesty’s Theatre in the West End, where the musical first premiered. Tickets are now on sale.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music, including iconic songs like Music of the Night, Think of Me, and All I Ask of You, enhances the emotional story of a mysterious man hiding in the shadows of the Paris Opera House and his tragic love for Christine, a young singer. This masterpiece has captivated audiences with its powerful staging and emotionally charged narrative.

The leading roles will feature original London cast members Nadim Naaman (The Phantom), Lary Martins (Christine Daaé), and Paul Erbs (Raoul), among others.

Nadim Naaman performed as Raoul in London from 2015 to 2017, while Lara Martins, who plays Carlotta, held the role for six years, making her the longest-serving actress in that part. The production features nearly 100 actors and musicians, stunning sets, and 230 costumes.

Since its debut, the musical has been seen by over 160 million people in 46 countries and 193 cities, translated into 21 languages. It has received 70 major theater awards, including seven Tony Awards and four Olivier Awards. Originally premiering in London’s West End in 1986, it has been running continuously for 38 years.

“We are thrilled to bring this extraordinary cultural achievement to Prague. The performance will delight theater lovers and fans of powerful music that has inspired generations over decades,” said Denis Maizner of TicketLIVE, the Czech partner for the event.

The Prague production has also been endorsed by the British Ambassador to the Czech Republic, Matt Field. “Our team has worked tirelessly to bring together the world’s greatest talents to ensure these performances continue to break records and delight audiences around the world,” said Liz Koops, CEO of Broadway Entertainment Group.

Tickets for 23 performances at the Prague Congress Centre are available through TicketLIVE, starting at CZK 2,190.

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Eska, a popular bakery and kitchen in Prague’s Karlín district, has been a favorite since its opening, setting a new standard for high-quality, artisanal baked goods.

Known for its signature breads and pastries, the establishment is part of the Ambiente group, which has helped redefine modern Czech dining. Now, Eska is expanding with a second location in Letná, set to open in mid-February.

The Letná branch will emphasize pastries and retail offerings, diverging from the Karlín location’s more extensive operation.

The menu will feature freshly baked breads, such as the popular “Bread 33” and “Bread 66,” which use 33% and 66% rye flour, respectively. These breads are a hallmark of Eska and will be available at both locations.

Sweet pastries, including loupáky, buns, cakes, kremrolles, and pastel de nata, will also be on offer.

Retail Products and Local Partnerships

One major difference in Letná will be its focus on retail products. Shelves will be stocked with items like jams, spreads, and beverages. Customers will also find farm-fresh products from Ambiente’s partners, such as Kubát eggs, Amaso sausages, and cheeses from Farma Struha. Eska will continue its collaboration with the Liberec-based Nordbeans roastery for coffee.

For a sweet treat, the Letná branch will introduce a new cheesecake-flavored ice cream.

A Five-Year Search for the Perfect Space

The search for a suitable location for the new branch took five years. Eska required a high ceiling to accommodate its bakery oven and chimney, which complicated the process. “We faced setbacks multiple times, often due to chimney-related issues,” said head baker Jaroslav Kozdělka.

Finally, a space at the corner of Malířská and Veletržní streets met all the requirements.

The new branch’s opening hours will differ slightly from Karlín’s, welcoming customers from 7:30 AM, half an hour earlier than its counterpart.

Eska’s general manager, David Marek, emphasized that the expansion arose from the growing demand for their bread.

“We needed to increase production to meet customer demand,” he explained. While the team is focused on Letná for now, the possibility of further expansion is not ruled out.

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58% of Czechs disagree with the government’s policy to support Ukraine, claims a new survey.

Czech interest in the ongoing war in Ukraine has declined as public disapproval of the government’s policy of supporting Kyiv grows, local media reported on Wednesday.

According to a survey conducted by the Centre for Public Opinion Research (CVVM), 43% of people expressed interest in supporting Ukraine in the ongoing war with Russia in the last quarter of 2024, a 14% decrease from the beginning of last year.

Meanwhile, disapproval of the Czech government’s actions in support of Ukraine has grown to 58%, the highest level since the beginning of the Russian war on Feb. 22, 2022.

According to the survey, interest in Ukrainian developments has grown significantly in tandem with a growing interest in politics in general and, to a lesser extent, with increasing educational attainment or even age.

The survey also highlights attitudes toward international responses to the conflict.

Nearly three-quarters of respondents (73%) believe that the global community should apply diplomatic pressure on Russia.

Additionally, 49% support isolating Russia politically and economically, 45% back financial aid to Ukraine, and 42% agree with providing military equipment.

However, only 11% of Czechs would endorse sending troops to Ukraine.

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Located along the Vltava River in the Malá Strana district, The Franz Kafka Museum offers an in-depth look at the life and work of one of the 20th century’s most influential writers.

Kafka, born in Prague in 1883, is best known for his exploration of existentialism, absurdism, and the alienation of modern life.

The museum, which opened in 2005, allows visitors to explore Kafka’s complex relationship with his city, his family, and his own identity, making it a must-see for literary fans and anyone interested in understanding the forces that shaped his works.

Kafka’s Life in Prague: Struggles and Contradictions

Franz Kafka’s life in Prague was marked by personal struggles and contradictions. Born into a middle-class Jewish family, Kafka spoke German but was shaped by the unique cultural mix in Prague.

In the early 20th century, the city was a melting pot of Czech, German, Jewish, and other communities, influencing Kafka’s perspective on life. His works often dealt with themes of isolation, bureaucracy, and the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations. Kafka’s strained relationship with his father, his struggles with his identity, and his ongoing health issues all played a role in his writing and his worldview.

The Museum’s Design and Exhibits

The museum is located in a building that once belonged to Kafka’s sister, Ottla, which adds a personal touch to the experience. The layout of the museum, with its dark and winding spaces, mirrors the dream-like and often unsettling environments found in Kafka’s stories.

The space is divided into several sections, each offering a different perspective on Kafka’s life and legacy. One of the key highlights is the museum’s collection of Kafka’s personal letters, diaries, manuscripts, and photographs. These provide a rare insight into the mind of the man behind works like The Trial, The Metamorphosis, and The Castle.

The museum also highlights how Kafka’s personal life influenced his writing. For example, one section focuses on Kafka’s difficult relationship with his father, Hermann. Kafka’s father figure appears in many of his works as an oppressive force, and the museum explores this through letters Kafka wrote to his father, which are some of the most revealing pieces of Kafka’s personal correspondence.

Kafka and Prague: A Complicated Relationship

The museum also explores Kafka’s complicated relationship with Prague. Although he spent most of his life in the city, he often felt disconnected from it. His discomfort with his surroundings is reflected in his writing, where cities and bureaucratic systems are shown as oppressive forces.

It allows visitors to experience Prague through Kafka’s eyes, offering a deeper understanding of how the city’s narrow streets, grand architecture, and fragmented cultural landscape shaped his worldview.

The Lasting Impact of Kafka’s Work

In addition to exploring Kafka’s personal life, the museum highlights the lasting impact his work has had on literature and culture. Interactive exhibits, modern art installations, and video projections show how Kafka’s ideas continue to influence philosophy, art, and film.

Kafka’s work goes beyond the boundaries of Prague or his era. His exploration of alienation, bureaucracy, and the human condition remains relevant today. His influence can be seen in various fields, from existential philosophy to modern theater. In Prague, the Kafka Museum is a key cultural institution, ensuring that Kafka’s work continues to resonate for those interested in exploring the complexities of the human experience.

Kafka Landmarks in Prague

The museum’s location in the Malá Strana district adds to its significance. Just a short walk away, visitors can explore other Kafka-related sites, such as the Kafka House, where the writer spent part of his youth. Another nearby landmark is the Statue of Franz Kafka by Jaroslav Róna in Jiřího z Poděbrad Square. This striking sculpture, with Kafka’s head atop distorted human figures, symbolizes Kafka’s fragmented identity and the theme of alienation found in his works.

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Construction of a new tram line connecting Vinohradská Street to Wenceslas Square is set to start this year.

The 400-meter-long project will cost 224.7 million CZK. Work is expected to begin in the second quarter of the year and is scheduled to take 20 months to complete.

The tram line will begin at Vinohradská Street, between the buildings of the National Museum, and cross Legerova Street before linking up with existing tracks on Vinohradská and Škrétova Streets. An 80-meter section of track, installed during the museum’s 2018 reconstruction, will be integrated into the project.

New Tram Stops and Urban Improvements

The new line will include stops named Škrétova, replacing the existing Muzeum stops. According to DPP spokesperson Aneta Řehková, the stops will reflect a redesigned public space concept. The underpass beneath Legerova Street will be removed.

DPP’s technical director for surface transport noted that the line is expected to become operational in mid-2027, coinciding with the completion of the Wenceslas Square tracks.

Construction Progress at Wenceslas Square

Work on the 550-meter tram line from the National Museum to the middle of Wenceslas Square began in June last year, with an estimated cost of 1.24 billion CZK. This project also involves the reconstruction of the ceiling slabs of the Muzeum metro station and further enhancements to Wenceslas Square, following previous upgrades to its lower section.

Future Tram Line Expansions

Prague is also planning additional tram line projects. This year, DPP aims to start construction of a 2.3-kilometer line from Vinohradská Street to Malešice via Počernická Street, at an estimated cost of 1.75 billion CZK (excluding VAT). The search for contractors is underway.

In recent years, DPP has completed several extensions, including lines to Pankrác, Divoká Šárka to Dědina, Modřany to Libuše, and Barrandov to Sliven.

Additionally, the Dvorecký Bridge, currently under construction, will feature tram tracks. Future plans include connecting the bridge to Michle via Jeremenkova and Budějovická streets. Long-term proposals also include a line from Podbaba to Suchdol.

 

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The legendary American band Lynyrd Skynyrd, best known for their global hit Sweet Home Alabama, will perform live in Prague for the first time on Monday, July 7.

This iconic southern rock group returns to the Czech Republic after a decade, following their 2014 concert in Pilsen. The Prague performance is part of a tour celebrating the band’s 50-year musical journey, as confirmed by Ondřej Pojzl from Live Nation, the event organizer.

Speaking about the new tour, Johnny Van Zant – lead vocalist and brother of the late Ronnie Van Zant – said: “It’s about the legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd, and what it stands for, what the fans are all about. There’s nothing like getting out there, playing a great show with Skynyrd and seeing people love this music.”

With over 30 million albums sold worldwide, Lynyrd Skynyrd– inducted into the Rock ‘n Roll Hall Of Fame in 2006 – remain a musical benchmark for many, thanks in particular to the 1974 release of their second opus,“Second Helping“. Marked by the hit ” Sweet Home Alabama “, this record was certified platinum several times over.

This was followed by“Gimme Back my bullets“, and“Street survivor”, released just three days before the terrible plane crash that claimed the lives of singer Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Steve Gaines.

The band was finally re-formed 10 years later with the survivors and Johnny Van Zant – Ronnie’s brother – on vocals. Sadly, Billy Powell passed away in 2009. As for guitarist Gary Rossington, the last original member and founder of the band, he passed away in 2023 at the age of 71.

“Few bands have had such a profound influence on shaping a lifestyle as Lynyrd Skynyrd,” said Pojzl. “Their mission remains to honor a legacy that has touched the lives of millions of fans worldwide.”

 

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A food delivery through Wolt service turned into a disturbing ordeal for a young woman in Prague. Instead of handing over her meal, the courier presented her with a condom and suggested they have sex.

The incident was reported on Tuesday, January 21, by CNN Prima News.

The victim recounted that the man spoke broken English with a pronounced Eastern accent.

“He tried repeatedly to enter my apartment, showing me a pack of condoms and insisting this was my ‘order.’ He then pulled one condom out and displayed it in his hand,” the woman explained.

Fortunately, she managed to push the courier outside and lock her door. However, the harassment continued as he called her phone multiple times afterward.

“I contacted the police, and they informed me that I wasn’t the only person to experience such behavior. They receive frequent complaints about couriers from companies like Wolt. I’m just relieved it ended without further escalation,” she added.

Police spokesperson Eva Kropáčová confirmed that an investigation is underway but noted that no criminal charges have yet been filed.

Initially, Wolt ignored the woman’s complaint, only addressing the situation after the media intervened.

“We have blocked the courier’s profile in our system, contacted the client to apologize for this traumatic experience, and offered our support. We are also fully cooperating with the police investigation,” the company stated.

Safety Advice for Clients

Experts emphasize the importance of meeting couriers outside apartment entrances rather than at the door. Women are advised not to allow strangers into their homes under any circumstances—such as requests to use the bathroom or take medication—and to address inappropriate behavior like vulgar remarks or suggestive jokes immediately.

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KM Malta Airlines will reintroduce its seasonal direct flight route connecting Prague and Malta.

The announcement comes from the press office of Václav Havel Airport Prague, signaling a major convenience for travelers between the two destinations.

Beginning April 1, 2025, coinciding with the summer aviation season, the airline will operate four weekly flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This schedule offers flexibility for both leisure and business travelers.

Tickets are already available, with prices for one-way trips starting at CZK 2,800. The flight duration is estimated at 2.5 hours, ensuring a quick and comfortable journey between the Czech capital and the Mediterranean island nation.

Malta, with its stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife, is a popular destination for travelers worldwide.

Its capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique blend of rich history and modern culture. Visitors can explore its iconic Baroque architecture, picturesque streets, and renowned attractions like St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Harbour.

The island’s Mediterranean cuisine and year-round mild weather make it an ideal getaway.

This route reinstatement highlights the growing demand for direct connections between Prague and Malta, especially during the summer months, when both destinations see a surge in tourism.

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The 6th Prague Film Awards will take place on the 1st of February at the Kino Světozor.

Blending two short film programs and one feature film, this year’s edition brings 14 independent films.

Under the theme ‘Stories on the edge of belonging’ the 2025 Prague Film Awards program spans genres and styles, presenting powerful narratives of alienation, resilience, and hope. Stories that delve into the lives of individuals and communities navigating the spaces between connection and isolation, identity and displacement, arrival and departure.

The Prague Film Awards 2025 starts with two short film programs and finishes with the internationally acclaimed feature film ‘Bionico’s Bachata’, by the Dominican filmmaker Yoel Morales. The film tells the story of Bionico, a hopeless romantic addicted to crack, who wants to marry La Flaca, his fiancée but must find a ring, a job, and a house, and stay clean by the time she is out of the rehabilitation centre.

With the notion of belonging in the epicentre, the short film programs blend films of various themes and aesthetics.

David Vu’s ‘Pre-Artist’, explores the artistic struggles and the process of self-discovery, ‘Prague’s Girl’ by Andree Lucini tells a love story that blossomed in Prague during the Russian occupation started in 1968 while Daniel Path’s FUCK THIS SHIT, LOVE ME! is about navigating the modern dating world.

Each of the 13 independent short films challenges us to rethink the meaning of home, connection, and identity in a world in flux.

The Prague Film Awards takes pride in boasting a diverse and thought-provoking program of films by rising talents of various backgrounds from the four corners of the earth.

Info: 

• Kino Světozor
• Address: Vodičkova 791, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

Starting time: 18.00 

Admission Fee 

• General Admission Fee: 120CZK per screening
• Discounted for students and seniors: 100CZK per screening
• Tickets: http://bit.ly/40nJr5v

Films are in English or with English subtitles.

 

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