Prague

Iconic Scandinavian Brand to Open a Branch in Prague

Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle brand ARKET is expanding to the Czech Republic, confirming plans to open its first physical store in Prague by the end of the year. Known for its clean, minimalist design and commitment to slow fashion, the Swedish label will offer more than just clothing – introducing Prague residents to a curated experience where fashion, design, and food meet under one roof. Unlike many brands within the H&M Group, ARKET distances itself from fast fashion. It focuses on durable, timeless pieces for women, men, and children, alongside a collection of homeware and accessories rooted in Nordic simplicity. “We are pleased to finally announce the opening of our first flagship store in the Czech Republic. We look forward to connecting with the local community and presenting our vision of a more beautiful everyday life,” said Pernilla Wohlfahrt, Brand Director at ARKET.     Visualizza questo post su Instagram   Un post condiviso da ARKET (@arketofficial) But ARKET’s new Prague location isn’t just about shopping. A central element of the store will be the ARKET Café, inspired by the principles of new Nordic cuisine. Led by chef Martin Berg, the café highlights plant-based ingredients, seasonal produce, and simple, natural...

 by Prague Morning May 28, 2025

Prague’s Main Station to Get a Makeover – With Trains, Tunnels and Housing

After years of stalled plans, Prague’s Main Railway Station is entering a new phase of redevelopment. One of the largest urban and infrastructure projects of the coming decade in Czechia, the transformation of Prague’s busiest transport hub — where up to 100,000 people pass through daily — is finally gaining momentum. A new joint vision has emerged between the city, the state, the Railway Administration, and private investors. The goal is clear: to prioritize transport efficiency, coordinated development, and public benefit over fragmented commercial gain. “This is not a single project. There are at least forty overlapping plans involving different stakeholders — from government to museums,” explains Petr Návrat, an urban planner at Onplan Lab, the firm coordinating the redevelopment. “We’re trying to create a unified vision that aligns transport, economic, and urban needs.” Rather than selecting one master plan upfront, officials are adopting a “test planning” approach. Three competing concepts will be developed, each offering different transport solutions, zoning ideas, and urban functionality. These proposals will be shaped by interdisciplinary teams — including transport engineers, economists, architects, and city planners — who will assess costs, benefits, and capacity. “We want hard data about the impact on public transit and...

 by Prague Morning May 27, 2025

Theatre, Circus, Music – ARENA Festival Returns June 5–19

The ARENA Festival, created by the Forman Brothers Theatre, is returning to Prague for its eighth edition from June 5 to 19, once again bringing a rich mix of theatre, new circus, music, and visual art. This year’s main stage welcomes Cirque Trottola, the acclaimed French troupe known for its raw, poetic style, with its newest performance, “Strano.” Joining them is Circus Ronaldo, the celebrated Belgian ensemble, performing “Swing”, a high-energy act filled with music and motion. Also featured is Giullo Vizcaíno, world champion in freestyle tumbling, who will present “POI,” a unique piece built around the hypnotic movement of spinning tops. Families will find plenty to enjoy aboard the Tajemství boat, docked at Rašínovo nábřeží, where the Forman Brothers Theatre teams up with Puppets Without Borders to present the children’s show “Circus Los Animales Fantásticos.” As always, entry to the festival grounds is free, and this year introduces a discounted ticket bundle for all foreign performances and family admission packages. “ARENA 2025 has a truly rotating rhythm,” said Petr Forman, the festival’s artistic director. “Strano continues the Trottola tradition of deeply engaging performances. With **‘Swing,’ Circus Ronaldo brings their signature mix of humor and skill, joined by Czech singer...

 by Prague Morning May 27, 2025

Traffic Alert: Full Closure of Plzeňská Street to Disrupt Prague 5

A major reconstruction of Plzeňská Street in Prague 5 will begin at the end of June, bringing a series of traffic restrictions and detours through the summer Starting July 16, the section between Kartouzská and Erbenova streets will be completely closed to all car and bus traffic, with disruptions expected to last through August 29. The reconstruction is being driven by the urgent need to repair a severely deteriorated gas pipeline, with other infrastructure improvements taking place simultaneously. The scope of the project has drawn criticism from the Prague 5 mayor, Lukáš Herold (ODS), who says the timing—overlapping with other large-scale repairs in the district—could create unmanageable traffic congestion. “We explicitly asked the city to postpone the Plzeňská reconstruction until after the full rebuild of Peroutkova Street. Now, all three major arteries in Prague 5—Plzeňská, Peroutkova, and Holečkova—are under construction simultaneously. This will cause total traffic chaos,” Herold said. The reconstruction will include repairs to the gas pipeline, managed by Pražská plynárenská distribuce, which dates back to the 1950s and 1970s. According to board vice-chair Andrej Prn, around 600 meters will be replaced this year, with the remainder of the two-kilometer pipeline scheduled for next year. “The condition of the...

 by Prague Morning May 26, 2025

Name Change Ahead? Českomoravská May Become Arena Libeň

The Českomoravská metro station in Prague could soon be renamed Arena Libeň following its ongoing reconstruction. The move has received backing from Prague 9 officials, Ropid—the city’s transport planning authority—and Prague City Hall’s topographic commission, according to Ropid spokesperson Filip Drápal. Českomoravská, located on Metro Line B, has been closed since January 6 for extensive renovations. It is the nearest metro stop to the O2 Arena, a major concert and sports venue. Drápal explained that the idea to rename the station came from the O2 Arena’s operator after the closure began. The original proposal suggested the name Arena Praha, which was accepted by Prague 9’s administration. Ropid also supported the initiative, presenting it to the topographic commission on May 21, which formally recommended renaming the station to Arena Libeň. This isn’t the first time the name change has been discussed. A similar proposal was put forward in 2018, but officials ultimately retained the Českomoravská designation. However, the proposed renaming has drawn sharp criticism from members of the public. Opponents argue the move is unnecessary, potentially confusing, and disregards historical and geographic significance. “We see the incorporation of corporate or promotional names into public transport as a dangerous precedent,” the petition...

 by Kathy Zabinski May 26, 2025

Heydrich Assassination Took Place 83 Years Ago

On the morning of May 27, 1942, around 10:30, two men, Jozef Gabčík and Jan Kubiš, waited in the sharp bend of a road near the Bulovka hospital in Prague 8. Bicycles were parked nearby for an escape and one was wearing a long coat to conceal his machine gun. These men were waiting to ambush one of the key men of the Third Reich, the butcher of Prague, Reinhard Heydrich. Operation Anthropoid Planned by British special operations and supported by the Czechoslovak government-in-exile, the preparation for Heydrich’s assassination, called Operation Anthropoid, involved officers Jozef Gabčík and Jan Kubiš as the major players. They were airlifted from Great Britain to Czechoslovakia along with seven other Czech soldiers in December of 1941. After scratching plans to kill Heydrich on a train and in his car in a forest, the plan was to attack him at a sharp turn in the Libeň district of Prague on his way from his home in Panenské Březany. The assassination attempt Gabčík and Kubiš were positioned at the tram stop near Bulovka Hospital, where there was a bend in the road,d while their colleague Josef Valčík signaled with a mirror the arrival of Heydrich’s open-roofed Mercedes-Benz....

 by Prague Morning May 26, 2025

Pro-Palestinian Protest Shadows Israeli Festival in Prague

A pro-Palestinian protest rally and a festival of Israeli culture took place almost side-by-side on Prague’s Štvanice island on Sunday.  The festival, celebrating Israeli culture, cuisine, music, and traditions, features dozens of stalls offering books, jewelry, snacks, and religious items such as the menorah. The day’s schedule included lectures, concerts, and workshops — even a program for children with activities like Hebrew lessons and craft stations. But beneath the festive atmosphere, tensions were palpable. Under the Štvanice footbridge, pro-Palestinian activists staged a demonstration, accusing the Israeli state of committing genocide in Gaza. Protesters displayed banners and waved flags just steps from the festival entrance. The bridge itself has become symbolic — with “Free Palestine” signs on one side and Israeli flags on the other, reflecting the broader geopolitical divide. The event area was fenced off and guarded by dozens of police officers and members of the anti-conflict team. Entry required passing through security checks, and demonstrators were kept at a distance by a heavy police presence. Nearby, another group attempted a quieter form of protest — a picnic. They spread out blankets and intended to raise Palestinian flags, but were instructed by police that any political expression must take place...

 by Pavel Páral May 25, 2025

Festival Celebrating Israeli Culture and Food Returns to Prague

Get to know Israeli culture up close – the third year of the Israel on the River festival returns to Strelecky Island on Sunday, May 25. The third edition of the Israel on Vltava event  will take place on Sunday, May 25. Strelecky Island will come alive with Israeli music, great cuisine and lots of talsk, workshops and entertainment. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a diverse lineup of live performances and interactive events. From traditional dance workshops and martial arts to photography exhibitions and language sessions, the program offers something for everyone — including a special area for children. Expect the sounds of Israeli Prague Allstars, the melodic DUO Flora, and the energetic Quarter to Africa, all performing live on the Main Stage, which will close the evening with a DJ set. Visitors can also explore thought-provoking discussions and artistic showcases under the Tent Stage, including talks by foreign correspondent Jakub Szántó and graffiti artist Benci. Meanwhile, the Children’s Stage will host interactive workshops led by the Jewish Museum and Hebrew lessons for younger attendees. And of course, no Israeli festival would be complete without food — expect picnic vibes with authentic Israeli dishes, as well as games like backgammon...

 by Prague Morning May 24, 2025

Prague Pool Denies Entry to Woman in Burkini Over Hygiene Rule

A woman wearing a burkini was denied access to a Prague swimming pool this spring, despite the swimwear being allowed during the summer months. The incident occurred at the wellness facility of Hotel Step and has since gained attention after a video surfaced on social media, drawing criticism and raising questions about discrimination and hygiene policies. The video, initially posted on TikTok in April by an English-speaking user who identified the woman as his sister, showed a group of Muslim women at the pool entrance. It then cuts to a sign listing approved swimwear, which includes full-body suits such as burkinis. However, the pool’s rules only allow such attire during July and August, citing hygiene reasons. According to Josef Vítovský, director of the Prague branch of Infinit, which operates the hotel’s wellness center, the staff acted according to established rules. “Yes, we were aware of the situation. Our staff notified their supervisors immediately, and we reviewed it internally,” he said. Vítovský explained that the rule banning full-body swimsuits during most of the year stems from hygiene standards aimed at preserving water quality. “These swimsuits cover a larger surface area, which can trap more dirt or contaminants. Additionally, it’s impossible to...

 by Prague Morning May 23, 2025

Iron Maiden Launches First Official Fan Bar in Prague

Prague will host the world premiere of Iron Maiden’s official fan bar, Eddie’s Dive Bar, kicking off a weekend of metal, beer, and celebration. The iconic British band is launching the first-ever fan zone of its kind on Friday, May 30, and Saturday, May 31, as part of its global “Run for Your Lives” anniversary tour. The celebration will coincide with Iron Maiden’s 50th anniversary concert at Letňany Airport on May 31, drawing thousands of fans from across Europe. The venue for this milestone is Prague’s Riegrovy Sady. The bar will feature exclusive merchandise, limited-edition posters, and drinks crafted for the occasion—including the fan-favorite Trooper beer and a specially branded Eddie’s Darkest Red Wine. “When Iron Maiden celebrates, the whole world celebrates,” said David Salomon, spokesperson for Riegrovy Sady. “We’re honored that our Energy Pub was chosen for this official fan zone. This will be an unforgettable party with beer, music, and pure metal energy.” Alongside Iron Maiden-themed beverages, the fan bar will offer beer from ten Czech microbreweries and a Pilsner Urquell taproom, giving international fans a taste of local brewing traditions. Food lovers will also get to sample Czech gastronomy, with food stalls complementing the drink selection. The two-day...

 by Prague Morning May 23, 2025

Prague Church to Ring Bell Forged from Ukraine War Weapons

A bell partly made from weapons used in the war in Ukraine will soon ring in the heart of Prague. Cast by the renowned Dutch foundry Royal Eijsbouts, the bell will be installed in the Church of the Most Holy Savior and consecrated during a special ceremony on Thursday, June 5. Both the Czech presidential couple and the Dutch royal couple are expected to attend. The bell, 69 centimeters in diameter and weighing over 220 kilograms, cost approximately CZK 550,000. It is already completed and currently housed at the Royal Eijsbouts factory in the Netherlands, awaiting its transport to Prague next week. The idea behind the bell is deeply symbolic. Its material — recycled fragments of artillery shells, rockets, and other weaponry used during the Russian invasion of Ukraine — was collected in Ukraine and brought to the Netherlands in February with the help of the Ukrainian embassy. This wasn’t a routine project. Using war metal presented technical challenges, particularly in predicting how it would affect the bell’s sound quality and casting properties. The bell is more than a musical instrument. It’s a diplomatic symbol, designed to reinforce the solidarity between the Czech Republic and the Netherlands in their support...

 by Prague Morning May 23, 2025

John Malkovich Brings Intimate Drama to Prague’s Hybernia Theatre

Oscar-nominated actor John Malkovich is coming to Prague, performing live at the Hybernia Theatre in a rare and intimate stage production. Alongside renowned Lithuanian actress Ingeborga Dapkūnaitė—recognizable to many from Mission: Impossible—Malkovich will take on the lead role in In the Solitude of Cotton Fields, a powerful existential drama by French playwright Bernard-Marie Koltès. The performance, presented in English with Czech subtitles, will run for two nights only—Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22—offering a unique opportunity for local audiences to experience world-class theatre in the heart of Prague. Directed by Russian director Timofey Kuljabin, who previously visited Prague with the opera Distant Sound in 2022, the production explores themes of desire, isolation, and power dynamics through a hypnotic dialogue between two unnamed characters—a dealer and a client. Their interaction, filled with unspoken tension, rejection, and fascination, forms the emotional core of Koltès’s script. “This is a very strong and contemporary piece,” says Malkovich, speaking about his return to the Czech stage. “We’ve had the privilege of working with incredible people connected to the local theatre scene. Timofey’s work at the State Opera made a real impact here.” Would you like us to write about your business? Find out more

 by Prague Morning May 23, 2025

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