Prague Considers Restoration of Marshal Radetzky Monument on Malostranské náměstí

Prague’s City Hall has approved a plan to explore the possible return of the statue of Johann Graf Radetzky von Radetz to Malostranské náměstí.

The monument, which originally stood on the square from 1858 to 1919, would be a replica since the original statue is preserved in the Lapidarium of the National Museum. If restored, the statue would be positioned near the tram stop, as trams currently run through the original site.

The proposal is controversial and did not receive unanimous support, particularly from the Pirate Party coalition members.

The Prague City Council discussed the restoration proposal on Monday and agreed to collaborate with the Gallery of the Capital City of Prague to evaluate the technological and financial aspects of producing a replica of the Radetzky statue.

“This step by the Council marks a crucial part of our efforts to return the statue of Marshal Radetzky to its rightful place,” said Jiří Pospíšil (TOP 09).

“Restoring this monument will not only commemorate a significant historical figure but also honor the Czech soldiers who fought bravely under his command. We have taken great care to respect the site’s historical integrity and minimize any impact on the archaeological layers. The restoration will offer substantial artistic and historical value and contribute to the cultural development of our city.”

The City of Prague has also consulted with the Italian Embassy, which has no objections to the monument’s return, citing its historical significance. If the statue is restored, it would be accompanied by educational texts that provide an objective account of Marshal Radetzky’s role in history.

Not all city officials are on board with the proposal. Magdalena Valdmanová, vice-chair of the Pirate Party’s representative club, expressed her opposition, stating, “As representatives of the Pirate Party, we cannot support this plan. It is a topic that unnecessarily divides society. Instead of focusing on the future, we are reinterpreting the past. We see no added value in restoring monuments that celebrate controversial historical figures.”

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