Prague’s iconic Wenceslas Square is set for a major makeover, with construction kicking off on June 29th, 2024.

The large-scale project, expected to last three years, was officially announced by city officials on April 15th.

A key aspect of the renovation is the return of tram service to the upper part of the square.

New tracks will be laid, stretching from the National Museum to Můstek metro station, where they’ll connect with existing lines running along Vodičková and Jindřišská streets.

However, there’s a temporary downside for tram commuters during the initial construction phase. The Jindřišská-Vodičková tram section will be closed for three months, from June 29th to September 30th, 2024.

The Prague Transport Company will provide detailed information on revised tram routes closer to the closure date.

About the new project

The project’s scope encompasses not only the creation of the new tram line, but also all associated necessities, such as road and sidewalk reconstructions, re-routing of utilities, and essential modifications to subway vestibule ceilings.

Compared to its historical route, the new tram tracks will follow the sides of Wenceslas Square, creating a pedestrian promenade in the middle.

This redesign comes with widened sidewalks, a dedicated cycling lane, a new line of trees, and a reduction in parking spaces.

Tram tracks running the length of the square were removed in 1980.

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* PUBLIC TRANSPORT:

Construction of the new tram line in the upper half of Wenceslas Square leading towards the National Museum will begin on June 29 this year, Jan Šurovský, the technical director of the Prague public transport company DPP, announced at a press conference on Monday. Trams will not run through the square between Vodičková and Jindřišská from this date until September 30.

* HEALTH:

There were 1,494 new cases of whooping cough in Czechia last week, the biggest weekly increase since the start of this year, according to the latest data from the State Health Institute. The total number of registered whooping cough cases so far this year is 7,888, the most in one year since 1959.

* WEATHER:

The weather on Tuesday is expected to be cooler, with daytime temperatures of between 7 and 11 degrees Celsius. Skies should be mostly cloudy and overcast, with rain and strong winds in some parts of the country.

* IRAN:

The Czech Foreign Ministry has urged its citizens to refrain from traveling to Iran due to the deteriorating security situation in the region. The ministry has also called for those currently in Iran to leave the country as soon as possible. This decision comes amid fears that Iran might retaliate against Israel following the bombing of an Iranian consulate in Damascus, which could potentially escalate to further reactions from the Jewish state.

* POLITICS:

During his meeting with Prime Minister Petr Fiala at the White House on Monday, US President Joe Biden praised Czechia’s support for Ukraine, especially its efforts to secure ammunition from outside the EU for the invaded country, and stated that he considers it a great ally.

Now it will offer two days of breathtaking adrenaline experiences, entertainment for children and adults, and the best of the world of cycling.

Following last year’s première, when four thousand visitors came to the event, the gates of Prague’s Výstaviště will once again open to all fans and lovers of cycling.

On the weekend of 27 – 28 April 2024, all cycling enthusiasts can look forward to the biggest cycling holiday of the year: Prague Bike Fest.

Over the course of two days, visitors will enjoy a heaping serving of adrenaline shows, exhibitions, workshops, organized rides with well-known athletes, bike testing, as well as an after-party and gastronomic delights.

There will also be a presentation of renowned and new brands that represent the best the world of cycling has to offer.

Children will also have something to look forward to. A brand new children’s test circuit will be prepared for them under the guidance of experienced instructors.

The cherry on top will be the adrenaline-filled Big Air show starring Teodor Kováč. In the middle of Brussels Road, at a height of up to 7 meters, he will perform his most difficult tricks such as a double-back flip, front flip with no hands, or 720-degree spin.

For enthusiasts and recreational cyclists

An extensive program awaits visitors not only in the outdoor areas but also in the pavilions, which provide comfortable facilities for presenting the latest equipment from the world of cycling with the possibility to try out selected pieces right there.

Those of a more laid-back nature will also find lots to do at the Bike Forum Stage, where travel lectures, interviews and discussions on the topic of safety and electromobility will take place.

The pleasant atmosphere of the entire event will continue at Saturday’s follow-up party in Křižík Pavilion B, which will first feature the rhythms of “slow techno” and will then be followed by an exhibition performance by BMX Flatland. Everyone with a valid ticket to the Prague Bike Fest is invited.

Facts about the event:

When: 27 and 28 April 2024 / Time: From 10 am to 7 pm Saturday / 10 am to 7 pm Sunday
Where: Brussels Road and Open Air (entrance from Stromovka by Marold’s Panorama)
Admission: CZK 100–580 / GoOut.net

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President Joe Biden urged the U.S. House to immediately take up Senate-passed supplemental funding for Ukraine and Israel on Monday as he hosted Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala in the Oval Office.

The visit came as Biden aimed to highlight the efforts other nations are making to support Ukraine.

It followed the Czech government’s announcement that it is sending 1 million rounds of artillery ammunition to Ukraine, which Kyiv says is badly needed on the battlefield against Russia’s invasion.

“As the Czech Republic remembers, Russia won’t stop at Ukraine,” Biden said. He appealed to Congress to pass the supplemental funding so the U.S. could do its part to help Ukraine. “They have to do it now,” Biden said.

Fiala praised the U.S. president for his leadership in support of Ukraine, adding, “We are also doing our best.” He said, “In 1968 I saw Russian tanks in the streets of my town, and I don’t want to see this again.”

Biden called the Czech Republican a “great ally” in NATO, as Fiala said his country’s decision to purchase F-35 fighter jets from the U.S. will “make our cooperation and security much stronger.”

He also recalled the role of the United States in the creation of the independent state of Czechoslovakia in 1918 and mentioned former US Secretary of State and Prague native Madeleine Albright as examples of the strong links between their two countries.

Fiala told reporters following his sit-down with Biden that he will meet with lawmakers on Capitol Hill on Tuesday to further discuss Ukraine aid.

“The support from U.S., the help from U.S. is very important,” Fiala said.

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Prague faces a significant challenge: skyrocketing apartment prices. The cost of living is impacting even the middle class. Apartment prices have jumped over 50% in just five years.

Additionally, a third of Prague residents rely on rentals, which have also seen a 30% increase. This, coupled with a slowdown in construction due to recession, has created a critical situation.

To address this, the Prague Development Company (PDS), a contributory organization of the capital city, plans to build up to 8,000 new apartments within the next 10 years.

“Prague’s housing prices are comparable to Western Europe, but salaries here are much lower,” emphasizes Petr Hlaváček, deputy mayor for territorial development. “This creates tension within our society.” He adds, “We have the space for up to 80,000 new apartments. We can achieve this by revising spatial planning regulations.”

The PDS currently has 50 projects in the pipeline, encompassing over 8,000 apartments spread across more than 800,000 square meters of land. These projects are expected to be completed within the next decade.

“Many projects have already received approval, particularly those covering around 200,000 square meters designated for further investment preparation,” says Petr Urbánek, director of the Prague Development Company. “Others are still under design, and we anticipate some will have building permits by next year.” The initial construction projects are located in Krč, Zlíchov, and Libně.

The first project slated for completion in 2026 is the Jalový Dvůr housing complex in Krč, offering 40 apartments. “The first stage of the garden city project in Dolní Počernice will create 300 apartments. We expect the building permit within a year and a half,” explains Petr Urbánek.

Another initiative involves transforming the Opatov Hotel into roughly 300 new apartments. “Every apartment counts,” says Alexandra Udženija, deputy mayor for social affairs and housing. “I’m thrilled to see unused spaces being repurposed into new housing.”

A new neighborhood for 5,000 residents is planned for a 15-hectare site near the future Nové Dvory metro station D. Construction is expected to begin in 2029, subject to permitting. “We’re currently preparing the area. The project became more affordable after acquiring the post office and revising the documentation,” explains Petr Hlaváček.

Despite rising construction costs, recent data (February 2024) shows an increase in Prague’s apartment construction. Over 200 apartments entered the construction phase, primarily in Prague 8, 15, and 18. Statistics also reveal over 6,000 apartments were completed in these areas.

The new 2023 Property Index analysis reveals that Prague ranks alongside Amsterdam and Bratislava as European capitals requiring the highest number of annual salaries to purchase an apartment. This initiative by the PDS offers a glimmer of hope for Prague residents struggling with the housing crisis.

Czech Railways (ČD), Siemens Mobility and Škoda Transportation unveiled the first fixed-formation ComfortJet push-pull train for cross-border services at Prague main station on April 9.

Siemens and Škoda are supplying 20 nine-car 230km/h ComfortJet trains to ČD under a €500m contract awarded in March 2021.

ČD also awarded Siemens a contract to supply 50 Vectron multi-voltage locomotives and agreed a 10-year full-service maintenance contract under which ČD maintenance staff will transfer to the manufacturer.

The new trains will be maintained at the ČD Prague South facility near Prague Vršovice station, where the construction of a new maintenance building for the ComfortJet fleet is under consideration by ČD.

The first ComfortJet unveiled in Prague was formed of eight coaches, rather than the standard formation of nine cars. The second class/bistro car and first class driving trailer were missing as deliveries of these coaches have yet to start.

The first ComfortJet is currently running under temporary approval granted by national rail safety regulator Drážní úřad. ČD and the manufacturers are hopeful that the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) will soon grant the Authorisation to Place on the Market (APOM) that is required for the new train to enter passenger service.

The area of use specified in the APOM applications for both the ComfortJet and 20 of the Vectrons ordered by ČD comprises the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Poland and Denmark.

If the APOM is granted in time, ČD will start test operations in domestic passenger service between Prague and Bohumín next month, with eight-car trains operating at up to 200km/h and powered by a Vectron locomotive at each end of the train.

This might be followed in August by deployment of the ComfortJet on the Františkovy Lázně – Prague – Ostrava route, where the capacity of the class 680 tilting train fleet is currently insufficient to meet demand.

The eight-car ComfortJet is due to start operating between Prague and Berlin after this summer. Deployment further west is dependent on the completion of a major upgrade between Berlin and Hamburg that requires a lengthy line closure.

In December 2025 the ComfortJet in its full nine-car formation, hauled by a single Vectron at up to 230km/h, will be deployed on the Prague – Berlin – Hamburg – Copenhagen route.

It will also be introduced on the Prague – Bratislava – Budapest route and on Prague – Vienna – Graz Railjet services.

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* POLITICS:

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has arrived in Washington for a two-day official visit. On Monday, Mr. Fiala is scheduled to meet with President Joe Biden at the White House to discuss security cooperation and support for Ukraine, as well as mutual economic relations and nuclear energy.

* CHARITY:

People around Czechia donated 467 tonnes of non-perishable foodstuffs and hygiene products for the needy on Saturday within the bi-annual National Food Collection. Some 2,100 shops and supermarket chains joined the charity effort, which has been held twice a year since 2019.

* WEATHER:

Monday will be mostly overcast with rain and temperatures ranging between 13 and 17 degrees Celsius.

* PRAGUE:

Hundreds of people took part in Sunday’s Culture against Antisemitism event in Prague, organised by the Czech branch of the humanitarian organization International Christian Embassy Jerusalem.The event started with a march leading from Old Town Square to the Wallenstein gardens, where the main part of the program took place, including theatre performances and speeches.

* UKRAINE:

Ukraine’s situation warrants a coordinated international response similar to that received by Israel in the wake of Iranian drone and missile strikes, some Czech officials who expressed support for Israel said.

After enjoying a taste of spring with unseasonably warm temperatures in early April, the Czech Republic is in for a rude awakening.

A significant cool-down is expected across the country, bringing rain, showers, and even the possibility of snow, not just in the mountains but potentially at lower elevations as well.

Monday to Wednesday: Cloudy with Rain and Potential Snow

Monday will be mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms and showers in some areas. While daytime temperatures will remain relatively mild, ranging from 13 to 17 degrees Celsius, snow is expected at higher altitudes.

Tuesday will see cloudy skies persist, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 4 degrees Celsius and daytime highs reaching only 8 to 12 degrees Celsius. Showers, including some snow showers in the mountains, are again forecast. Meteorologists warn that snow may even appear at lower or even exceptionally low elevations later in the week.

Wednesday offers a glimmer of hope with skies potentially clearing towards the evening. Overnight temperatures could dip to freezing (0 degrees Celsius), while daytime highs will range from 6 to 10 degrees Celsius, with occasional peaks of 12 degrees Celsius. A moderate north-westerly to northerly wind is also expected.

Thursday and Beyond: Continued Cool Temperatures

Thursday night brings another drop in temperatures, with lows reaching -2 degrees Celsius. Daytime highs are expected to remain similar to Wednesday.

The outlook for next weekend isn’t much brighter either. From Friday to Sunday, expect cloudy skies with temperatures hovering around 10 degrees Celsius. So, it seems that spring may have to wait a little longer to fully arrive in the Czech Republic!

Prague is a city where bars are abundant in nearly every corner, however, for those more adventurous, there are only a handful of places that can offer both good drinks and a unique experience.

The Magical Owl (Bar Magická Sova), is one of those places where you can enjoy a nice cocktail with a shot of fun and magic. Located in the beautiful Vinohrady, the bar offers a variety of magical potions and snacks for those daring.

Customers have the unique chance to try specially prepared magical potion drinks while also having the opportunity to mix and concoct their own potions.

To immerse into the magical world of spells, customers can also roam around the place borrowing hats, cloaks, or wands, to dress up in and get a first-hand experience of wizards and witches on a night out!

These magical potions can also be complemented with thematic cupcakes or some quick witchy snacks. Those wanting to take on a challenge and make their own potions will receive a magical vessel (mini cauldron or flask) and a magical letter they unseal, with instructions on how to mix together their enchanted elixir.

These drinks are not just limited to alcoholic options as there are plenty of non-alcoholic ones for expecting witches or for those needing to fly home on a broomstick later that night. Some sparkle, others smoke or ignite but every customer is bound to have a magical night of fun!

 

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Those seeking a relaxed atmosphere rather than a bar-like setting will find themselves enjoying The Magical Owl the most, as the ambiance is not that of a conventional bar. The goal of the establishment is to offer patrons a place to grab a drink, immerse themselves in fantasy, and unwind after a stressful day. Therefore, customers should not be concerned about loud music playing in the background, as the bar is intended to provide a magical ambiance with a chill vibe.

Initially, the place was planned to be a café bar but after discovering the overwhelmingly positive reaction to their magical drinks, the place decided to focus on providing a variety of fairytale-like drinks, served in an atmosphere that reminded Harry Potter book. The bar is perfect for those looking to take a break from their nine-to-five, and to just sit down, have a drink, and escape the dreading boredom of the real world.

Like many of us in this generation, the owners of the bar were inspired by the world of the Harry Potter series, seeing it as the ultimate chance for fantasy fans to transport themselves into a parallel realm, of course, minus the fight against dark lords and evil sorcerers. The owners wanted to gift fantasy fans an opportunity to be safe from the mundane worries of the real world and indulge in their guilty pleasure of some magical time off.

While the bar offers many interactive activities for customers such as magical quizzes and VIP screenings of thematic movies, this is only the beginning for fantasy fans and The Magical Owl, as the bar aims to expand this magical universe by leaving room for future interactive events and opportunities for customers to engage in creativity and a love for a world of mystery and enchantment.

We advise you to make a reservation, especially on weekends due to limited space.

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Do you want to replace the car with another means of transport for a while? Plan a trip on an extraordinary train in the Osoblaha area.

A unique narrow-gauge railway line, which was put into operation in the late 19th century, still operates in the remote Bruntál district area near the Czech-Polish border.

Its track leads from Třemešná to Osoblaha and offers a stylish trip across interesting countryside.

Get on the train and enjoy the surrounding natural scenery accompanied by the sound of a motor or steam locomotive.

Historic trains run there from early May to November.

Find more info here

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If you’re looking for fresh fruit, head to the orchards: they’re free, and Prague has the most in the world!

Most Praguers have no idea that there are a number of fruit orchards in the capital, where one can pick various fruits for free, from apples to pears and cherries to blackberries.

The forthcoming book Prague Fruit Orchards (Pražské ovocné sady), will introduce 15 publicly accessible orchards and readers will find out when the individual fruit ripens or what trips can be made in the area.

Pluck a few cherries or pears from the tree and eat them right away. For many of us, the fruit carries many memories, especially from our childhood when we used to go to our grandmothers in the countryside or to summer camps as children. We all probably had secret expeditions to neighbor’s gardens where cherries were blushing. But it would probably occur to few that free and completely legal expeditions for fruit can be undertaken in Prague today.

Nowadays, when the prices are going up, a little fresh fruit is vital. Just go to one of the 70 Prague orchards. Yes, Prague really has so many–the most in the world.

“The Prague City Council manages 70 orchards with a total area of 115 hectares. Even one or two orchards are added per year, either by getting one into the administration or by setting up new ones,” explains Jiří Rom from the Prague City Council.

These secret parts of the capital want to be introduced by a new book, Prague Fruit Orchards, which is planned to be published by the organization Na Ovoce. It has been mapping orchards all over the Czech Republic for 6 years and on their website, you can use the interactive map to find the nearest orchards in your area.

“We have selected 15 of the most beautiful Prague orchards and we have described them in detail in the book,” describes Lenka Linhartová from Na ovoce.

The book describes the history of orchards, what fruit grows here and when the harvest season is. “The orchards are ideal for family picnics or meeting friends. There is peace and shade, people can pick fruit and take it home. The book also includes excursion routes around the individual orchards, so you can spend the whole day in peace in them,” Linhartová continues.

Now they are choosing a book through a crowdfunding campaign, and there are also interesting rewards on offer, such as a musting course, fruit fermentation, tree planting or a pruning course. So far, they have managed to choose to publish the book and the campaign continues.

“If the selected amount rises to CZK 200,000, we will expand the book on the audio version of the guide, which will be available in the Na ovoce mapping application,” concludes Linhartová.

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Good news for walkers and cyclists in Prague! The Prague 8 municipality is working to improve the riverside path along the Vltava River in Libeň.

They aim to create a peaceful and enjoyable space for everyone.

The current walking path will be resurfaced with a mixture of mortar and stone paving, replacing the originally planned asphalt.

This will create a quieter and more pleasant experience. The path will also be widened to 2.5 meters, and benches will be added for people to relax and enjoy the scenery. Greenery will be planted along the path to enhance the natural feel.

The current bike lane is narrow, unsafe, and too close to traffic. To address this, a new, separate path will be built on the slope along Povltavská.

“Together with the capital, we had a study prepared by TSK Praha, which is designed to make the cycle path wider, with a good surface and separated from the road. The project includes replacing the asphalt surface, moving the public lighting lamps and a new connection between the two levels with two staircases with space for parking bicycles,” explained Martin Jedlička (TOP 09 + STAN), chairman of the Prague 8 Transport Commission.

This new path will be wider (3.5 meters) and made of a higher-quality surface, making it safer and more comfortable for cyclists. Two staircases will connect the path to the riverbank, and the existing lamp posts that obstruct cyclists will be relocated.

The total cost is estimated to be around 50 million Czech crowns, funded entirely by the municipality.

“This location will become a popular recreational place, the so-called Povltava promenade, after the completion of all its project stages, including the completion of the City Ring Road,” added Jedlička.

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