Still in the Game? The Debate Over Máj’s Butterflies and Their Extended Presence
The proprietor of the Máj department store located on Národní třída is contemplating the idea of requesting an extension for the butterfly installation that adorns the building’s facade.
Karel Samec, representative for Amadeus Group, which is the owner of Máj, confirmed that such a request could indeed be made.
The butterfly installation, which was crafted by the artist David Černý, was initially granted approval for a duration of just one year by the heritage conservation office in Prague. The butterflies were installed on the building on May 18 and 19, 2024, and Černý is in favor of keeping the display up for a longer period.
“Currently, we are assessing whether to proceed with a request to extend the display of David Černý’s butterflies at Máj. The artist is in support of the extension, and we have received a remarkable amount of positive responses from visitors and the public, including industry professionals,” Samec mentioned.
However, not everyone is pleased with the installation. The Klub Za Starou Prahu (Club for Old Prague), which is a civic group dedicated to preserving heritage, has been quite vocal in their opposition.
The chairman of the club, Richard Biegel, described the artwork as “a quintessential example of kitsch.” Last year, the club expressed dissatisfaction with the city’s heritage office for endorsing the project, especially after it had been rejected by the National Heritage Institute.
The Máj department store first opened its doors to the public on April 21, 1975, and in 2006, it was recognized as a cultural monument by the Ministry of Culture.
A significant renovation project commenced in May 2022, with a budget of 4.5 billion CZK. The store welcomed customers once again on June 24, 2024, boasting nine floors filled with retail shops, dining options, an interactive exhibition, and a rooftop viewing terrace.
