Farewell to a Prague Landmark: Iconic Publishing House to Become Hotel

Most Prague residents are familiar with the narrow passage between Spálena and Opatovická Street, close to Národní třída.

This winding, dimly lit pathway with multiple corridors and a courtyard is home to an architectural gem: a rare example of industrial architecture in the city center.

This historic site, housing the printing and publishing house of J. R. Vilímek, is set for a major transformation.

“The building is largely empty and deteriorating. The owner has decided to convert them into a hotel, a use that has become increasingly popular in Prague,” explains historian Eliška Podholová Varyšová.

The five-story building houses at the moment a painting studio, a mini-golf, and a psychotherapy clinic, among other things.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Vilímek’s publishing house operated here, with underground spaces used as book warehouses. Today, these cellars are abandoned, filled with debris and old printing presses.

The new hotel is to have 195 rooms with 423 beds. The proposal also includes garages, a restaurant, and space for fitness and wellness activities.

“From 15 August, the actual construction and demolition work on the building at 160/18 Opatovická Street will begin in accordance with the permit,” said Karolína Šnejdarová, a spokesperson for Prague 1.

The passage from Opatovická to Spálená Street through the building’s courtyard is likely to be temporarily closed or restricted.

The investor of the reconstruction is the company Credibilis, which is controlled by Raiffeisen – Leasing.

About Vilímek’s publishing house

The passage connecting Spálená and Opatovická Street was built in the 19th century by Josef Richard Vilímek, who had his publishing house and bookstore in the surrounding buildings. The business gradually gained a great reputation and became one of the most significant in the country.

For example, it was the first to publish a Czech translation of Vinnetou. In the mid-20th century, Vilímek’s company was nationalized and subsequently liquidated, and the buildings were taken over by the central book distribution company.

Since 1996, a section of the building has been occupied by the Higher Vocational School of Journalism. The majestic Neoclassical buildings around are complemented by a front terrace adorned with Doric columns.

At the entrance to Opatovická Street, you can still see the inscription “Nakladatelství Jos. R. Vilímek” on the facade, commemorating the most glorious era of this building.

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