Orion club in Prague’s Žižkov has become notorious among locals for repeated disturbances. Owned by a Ukrainian entrepreneur, the club attracts a predominantly young Ukrainian clientele, who have gained a reputation for rowdy behavior. According to residents, club-goers frequently disrupt the area by drinking excessively, creating noise, and leaving litter, vomit, and other waste in their wake. These disturbances, dating back to 2020, have recently intensified, drawing the attention of national media. Residents have inundated the Prague 3 district office with complaints and even launched a petition, demanding action to address the escalating problems. Now, it appears the authorities are responding. First Inspection Finds Illicit Alcohol and Cigarettes On Friday, November 8, the Czech Customs Administration conducted an initial inspection of Orion nightclub, uncovering alcohol and cigarettes lacking Czech excise stamps. As a result, the club’s owner faces potential administrative proceedings and a significant fine. Sunday Night Police Raid Blocks Off Street In a larger show of force, around 30 officers from the Prague Police raided the club late on Sunday, November 10. After sealing off Řehořova Street, officers conducted searches and checked identification for people standing outside the club or sitting in parked cars. Following the initial checks, police...
The National Museum in Prague is celebrating the 200th anniversary of Czech composer Bedřich Smetana’s birth with a major exhibition dedicated to his renowned symphonic cycle, My Homeland. Open to the public until October next year, the exhibition showcases a unique blend of authentic documents, personal artifacts, and deep insights into the historical and cultural significance of Smetana’s work, which has become a cornerstone of Czech national identity. An Intimate Look at Smetana’s Life and Times The exhibition is divided into thematic sections that guide visitors through Smetana’s life, from personal possessions to the broader historical setting of his music. Visitors can see personal items, including his glasses, writing tools, and a hearing aid, which provide a glimpse into the life of the celebrated composer. These artifacts set the stage for a journey through the cultural and personal backdrop of My Homeland, composed between 1874 and 1879 and first performed in its entirety on November 5, 1882. In another section, individual symphonic poems from the My Homeland cycle are highlighted, each underscoring Smetana’s connection to Czech landscapes, history, and mythology. Director General’s Vision for the Exhibition “Bedřich Smetana, as the creator of a national musical style and the genius behind...
Prague is embracing a new AI-powered traffic control system, promising to revolutionize traffic management across the city. Developed by the Technical Administration of Communications (TSK) and funded by the European Union, this system will adapt traffic lights to current conditions in real-time, reducing congestion and improving overall traffic flow. This new approach aligns Prague with global cities like London and Boston, which have also adopted AI to tackle complex urban traffic challenges. Smart Traffic Management: How AI Enhances Prague’s Traffic Signals The new AI-based system intelligently optimizes traffic light timings to ensure the smoothest passage for vehicles and public transportation alike. Unlike the previous static system, where each intersection followed a fixed pattern, AI now dynamically adapts to actual traffic conditions. By continuously assessing real-time data and learning from previous traffic patterns, the AI system reduces delays and the number of stops, leading to shorter travel times for all road users. The system’s initial phase included testing at intersections along Patočkova Street, where the AI’s integration with Prague’s existing telematics and sensor networks was evaluated in real-world conditions. Results from the pilot confirmed that the AI could smoothly handle changing traffic situations and respond to unforeseen challenges, indicating its potential...
The “housing affordability crisis” is a frequent topic in Czech newspapers and political debates, but is housing truly unaffordable across the entire country? We examined the cost of buying an apartment for a Prague resident versus a resident in the Karlovy Vary region, uncovering stark differences in housing access between Prague and other regions. Prague’s Housing Crisis: Not Representative of All Czechia Housing (un)affordability is typically evaluated by looking at the number of newly built apartments. However, new apartments from the past thirty years make up only about 10% of all housing stock in Czechia, most of which are in Prague. Consequently, the high cost of housing in the capital skews the perception of nationwide affordability. In reality, housing supply hasn’t kept up with demand in Prague, leading to persistently high prices. To gain a realistic picture of housing affordability across Czechia, it’s essential to consider smaller towns and regions outside of Prague, as well as older housing stock, which makes up the bulk of available homes. The Cost of a Typical Apartment: Prague vs. Regions For comparison, let’s consider a standard 70-square-meter apartment in an older building. Such apartments are common across Czechia in both panel and brick houses....
Prague Shakespeare Company announced the return of their English-language smash-hit comedy: The Thanksgiving Play by Larissa Fasthorse on 20 & 26 November at Divadlo Na Pradle. The production is directed by Josh Morrison and stars Jenn Kirk, Genevieve Gionet, Scott Sophos, and Pavel Caldr. We had a chance to sit down with two stars of the play, Genevieve Gionet and Pavel Caldr, to discuss the production and the American holiday Thanksgiving. About The Thanksgiving Play The Thanksgiving Play is a very funny play about “wokeness” and the obsession with being politically correct. It’s an insightful, hilariously painful examination of attitudes about identity, the arts, and audiences. What is your favorite thing about the play? GENEVIEVE GIONET: Each character is an extreme version of their archetype. It makes the ironies and satire of the play that much more ridiculous and fun. PAVEL CALDR: I love the overall vibe and hilarious interactions between the four very different characters and their understanding of the world. They are all deeply flawed and very, very funny people. Who is your character and what do you love about your character? GENEVIEVE GIONET: I am playing Logan, the theatre teacher who is at risk of getting fired should...
Prague welcomed 5.88 million tourists between January and September 2024, an 8% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO). German, American, and British visitors topped the list of international arrivals, while domestic tourism remained stable, with Czech tourists now making up 20% of total visitors. This growth, as noted by Prague City Tourism (PCT) spokesperson Klára Janderová, includes a substantial rise in Asian tourists—thanks in part to renewed regular flights to and from Asian destinations. Record Numbers for Top International Markets The CZSO data reveals that the highest numbers of tourists by country of origin came from Germany (778,932 visitors), the United States (361,347 visitors), and Great Britain (320,323 visitors). These markets have continued to play a central role in Prague’s tourism economy, sustaining the city’s appeal for both European and overseas visitors. Prague’s popularity among Asian travelers has also resurged, with 632,078 visitors from Asia so far this year—a 25% increase year-over-year. This spike is largely attributed to the revival of regular air routes connecting Prague with key Asian cities, significantly boosting the city’s international tourism profile. Domestic Tourism Remains Strong In addition to international tourism, domestic visitors have consistently traveled...
Prague’s Christmas markets are back for the 2024 holiday season, offering an enchanting atmosphere, festive foods, and unique crafts. This guide details the schedule and locations for some of Prague’s most popular Christmas markets, each bringing its own charm to the holiday festivities. Christmas Market at Náměstí Míru Located near the Church of St. Ludmila, this popular market features a classic holiday selection of gingerbread, Christmas ornaments, candles, and traditional Czech treats. The Peace Square market is easily accessible, right outside the Náměstí Míru metro station (Line A). Address: náměstí Míru, Prague 2 Dates: November 20 – December 24 Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Christmas Market at Náměstí Republiky Just steps from the Republic Square metro station on the yellow line, this market offers an array of festive goods and a Christmas tree lot for those wishing to take home a piece of Prague’s holiday spirit. Address: náměstí Republiky, Prague 1 Dates: November 25 – December 24 Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Christmas Market at Tylovo náměstí Near the I.P. Pavlova metro station, Tylovo náměstí hosts a smaller market catering primarily to locals, with a focus on ready-made holiday foods and fresh produce. Just a...
On Wednesday, November 6, Prague’s District 3 initiated the replacement of outdated green street bins with new, modernized grey waste bins. These upgraded bins, made from durable plastic, include a unique QR code on each unit, enabling residents to quickly report any issues through the Změňte.to app. This rollout marks the pilot phase of a broader project led by the Prague Technical Communications Authority (TSK) in partnership with the Prague Institute of Planning and Development. As part of this initial phase, 150 new bins are being deployed throughout District 3, with an additional 10 units set to be installed near TSK’s headquarters in Holešovice. If this trial proves successful, the program could expand across the city. Each bin costs approximately CZK 4,300 (excluding VAT), with the metal mount and lid accounting for CZK 1,950, and the plastic body costing around CZK 2,350. TSK anticipates that future bulk orders will lower production costs as the initiative scales up. In October, Prague Deputy Mayor Zdeněk Hřib introduced the bins through a social media video, highlighting their durability. While the deputy mayor initially mentioned the bins were created using 3D printing, he later clarified that only prototype samples were printed in collaboration with...
The City of Prague’s management company, Trade Centre Prague (TCP), has terminated the lease of the (A)void Floating Gallery, a well-known cultural venue located on a ship moored at Náplavka. TCP cited “repeated and serious violations” of lease terms as the reason behind the decision, affecting not only the ship but also the gallery and bar operated in nearby quayside vaults. Dispute Over Contract Violations Ondřej Šrámek, TCP’s spokesperson, stated that the decision followed years of issues with the venue’s compliance. These included unannounced events. However, Ivo Slavík, operator of the (A)void Floating Gallery, dismissed TCP’s claims, calling the assertion of “gross violation of the contract” absurd. Slavík emphasized that similar tensions arose in 2020 when TCP also attempted to evict the gallery but ultimately reconsidered after a petition with over 4,000 signatures defended the space. “This is a public area,” Slavík argued. “The quayside lease shouldn’t give TCP the right to control everything happening on board. It’s not as though we’re engaged in anything unethical or inappropriate.” TCP Stands Firm on Lease Termination TCP manager Martin Habřinský clarified the company’s stance, saying, “Lease termination is always a last resort, but repeated violations of conditions cannot be ignored. We aim...
Looking for something different to do this weekend? This Sunday, November 10th, from 12 PM to 6 PM, Manifesto Market will host the Crafty Market—a one-day celebration of local artistry and craftsmanship. From handmade treasures to unique vintage finds, this event showcases the work of talented local artists and artisans. Here’s a sneak peek of some of the incredible vendors who’ll be at the event: Inka Hands – Known for beautifully crafted clothing and home decor inspired by global design. Monika Svojsová – Stunning bags that add a touch of elegance to any look. Ewiku_bizu – Handcrafted jewelry that’s bold, playful, and totally unique. Antikvariát Pocta – Discover rare books and hidden gems from a local favorite bookstore. Vila Berta – Gorgeous porcelain pieces that blend traditional and contemporary styles. Dresscode – A must for vintage clothing enthusiasts looking to add timeless style to their wardrobes. Admaru – Beautifully designed ceramics that bring warmth and personality to any space. The Vicious Tiger – Unleash your wild side with fierce, fashionable jewelry pieces. Freshing Cream – Unique jewelry with an edge, perfect for adding personality to any outfit. Vonny Sen – Candles by Petra Klopcová that fill the room with enchanting...
An ice rink will be set up on Wenceslas Square for the second year in a row. Organized by Prague City Tourism, this seasonal attraction brings a slice of traditional winter charm to the heart of the city, inviting locals and tourists alike to skate under the festive lights. The ice rink, located on the square’s lower end, will officially open on Sunday, December 1, at 5:00 PM. A special inaugural event will feature athletes from the renowned Sparta figure skating club, showcasing a lively performance to mark the start of the season. The rink will measure 30 by 12 meters, providing ample space for skaters of all skill levels. Facilities include on-site skate rentals and a food stand, perfect for grabbing a snack or hot beverage during breaks. Admission Prices: Adults: 200 CZK for a two-hour session Children: 100 CZK for two hours Skate Rental: 150 CZK for two hours Operating Hours and Schedule The rink will be open daily from December 1, 2024, to February 16, 2025, with hours spanning from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. To keep the ice in top condition, three brief maintenance breaks are scheduled each day: 12:00–12:30 PM, 3:00–3:45 PM, and 6:00–6:30 PM....
The Czech nationalist movement “Czech Republic First” (Česká republika na 1. místě) has announced a rally in Prague to demand the removal of the Ukrainian flag from the National Museum. The group claims the flag, displayed since early 2022 as a symbol of solidarity with Ukraine, does not belong on a Czech national monument. The demonstration is scheduled for Sunday, November 17, at 1:00 PM on Wenceslas Square, coinciding with the Day of the Fight for Freedom and Democracy, a significant Czech national holiday. “Is the National Museum on Wenceslas Square Czech or Ukrainian?” asked Ladislav Vrabel, the movement’s leader, in a public statement. “If we don’t act now, our national identity is at risk. The National Museum is a Czech heritage site, and the only flag worthy of it is the Czech flag. On November 17, I’ll be there to demand the immediate removal of the Ukrainian flag and pursue legal action against the museum’s management and the Ministry of Culture.” Vrabel, who has led several high-profile rallies in Prague, is known for his anti-government and pro-Russian views. In late 2022, he organized multiple protests that drew thousands of participants and effectively shut down Wenceslas Square, sending shockwaves through...
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