Prague will once again open the doors of its most intriguing buildings this spring as the Open House Prague festival returns for its 12th edition.

From May 18 to 24, more than 100 sites across the city will be accessible, many of them normally closed to the public. This year’s program introduces 20 new locations and focuses on how the city is evolving while preserving its architectural heritage.

The week-long event begins with a series of talks, guided walks, exhibitions, and discussions exploring architecture and urban development. Organizers aim to give visitors a clearer understanding of how Prague is changing and how historical sites are maintained.

Among the newly accessible locations is the Convent of St. Agnes, one of the oldest Gothic complexes in Prague, where visitors can explore a rarely seen medieval cellar. The Faculty of Humanities building in Troja offers a glimpse into architect Karel Prager’s unfinished vision of a large university complex built above the city.

A former headquarters of the Strojimport foreign trade company on Vinohradská Street reflects international influences, drawing inspiration from American skyscrapers of the mid-20th century. Another addition, the Na Zatlance grammar school, stands as a reminder of construction during the final years of World War I.

In Stodůlky, the historic Hájčí dvůr estate, once linked to the court of Charles IV, will open its gates. Meanwhile, one of Prague’s best-known examples of brutalist architecture, now operating as the Fairmont Golden Prague hotel, will also be part of the program after undergoing major renovation.

Hájčí dvůr

Visitors will also gain access to the Baroque Savarin Riding School, hidden behind a palace on Na Příkopě Street, as well as the Minorite Monastery near the Church of St. James in the Old Town, founded in the 13th century.

In Malá Strana, the Lobkowicz Palace, currently housing the German embassy, will be among the highlights. Other notable sites include the National House in Košíře, home to a recording studio used for classical and film music, and the New Town Hall on Mariánské Square, originally built as a tax office.

Lobkowicz Palace

Several large administrative and commercial buildings are also on the list. The Allianz Insurance Palace near Republic Square has recently been restored, while the former Postal Check Office near Wenceslas Square remains one of the clearest examples of interwar architecture in the city.

The Scout Palace, long associated with the Czech scouting movement, will open alongside the Old Royal Palace at Prague Castle, where visitors will be able to enter normally inaccessible Romanesque spaces.

Modern architecture is also represented. In Karlín, the Fragment residential building stands out with its sculptural façade and large artwork by David Černý.

Fragment

The Saukup estate, currently being transformed into a psychotherapeutic center, will also be accessible, offering a look at how older residential areas are being adapted for new uses.

Open House Prague has grown steadily since its launch and remains one of the few opportunities for the public to explore parts of the city that are otherwise off-limits.

Would you like us to write about your business? Find out more