Discover Prague’s Hidden Gems: Exclusive Open House Event This April!
Spring has arrived, which means it’s an ideal time to discover the architectural and historical treasures of Prague.
The April events organized by the nonprofit group Open House Prague feature a diverse array of themed walks offered in Czech, English, and, more recently, French. These walks provide valuable insights into not only the history of particular sites but also the intriguing stories of notable figures associated with them.
For those interested in uncovering the charm of Prague, options include exploring the neighborhoods of Malá Strana, Strahov, and Michle. Below are some highlighted guided walks and tours of ordinarily off-limits locations.
Love Stories From Malá Strana (tour in English)
Prominent figures such as writer Marcia Davenport, former politician Madeleine Albright, art collector Meda Mládková, first lady Charlotte Garrigue Masaryk, actress Shirley Temple Black, and the affluent couple Alfred & Martha Stern have all had pivotal connections to Malá Strana (known as Lesser Town in English). This area, one of the oldest in Prague, has historically been a point of intersection between the American and Czech cultures.
Join this captivating tour on Sunday, March 30 at 2:30 p.m. and listen to tales of romantic relationships shaped by the turbulent events of the 20th century!
Prague’s Iconic Stadium (tour in English)
The Great Strahov Stadium, accommodating up to 250,000 spectators, stands as one of the largest venues of its kind anywhere in the world. This monumental structure has been the site of Sokol rallies, massive mass gymnastics performances, and concerts of legendary musicians. Although it currently serves as a training ground for AC Sparta Praha’s football team, there are indications that the stadium may evolve into a cutting-edge technology hub in the years to come…
Dive into the enthralling history of this colossal facility and take in stunning views of the stadium from the stands! The tour is scheduled for Saturday, April 12 at 1 p.m.
A One-of-a-Kind Water Tower (tour in English)
The Michle water tower is a remarkable piece of industrial architecture that marries modernism with geometric Art Nouveau, standing tall for nearly 120 years. Designed by the renowned Czech architect Jan Kotěra, the tower has recently undergone renovations and is now open for exploration. On Sunday, April 20 at 2:30 p.m., visitors will be guided to the top of this 42-meter-high structure and into the underground water tank and machinery room.
Your guide will share insights into the history of the waterworks and point out its unique architectural and technological features. It’s a must-visit for enthusiasts of distinctive industrial architecture!
La Bohème Française I (tour in French)
Did you know that when French troops occupied Prague in the mid-18th century, the French king lived at Prague Castle for nearly four years? Or that the streets of Denisova and Legerova are named after French Slavists who studied Slavic languages, literature, history, and culture? These scholars were significant advocates for the Czech national movement and played vital roles in establishing the First Czechoslovak Republic in 1918.
Venture into Hradčany and Malá Strana to discover locations that showcase the profound connections between Prague and France, spanning from the Middle Ages to the modern era – highlighting figures like John of Luxembourg, a fixture at the French court, and French President François Mitterrand, a discreet supporter of Czech dissidents. The tour La Bohème Française (The French Bohemia) is set for Sunday, April 27, 2025; 2:30 p.m.
How to Purchase Tickets?
For any year-round events hosted by Open House Prague, tickets must be reserved in advance on their official website or via their new mobile app, which is available for free download on both iOS and Android devices.
Festival Open House Prague
At the start of April, details about the buildings included in the 11th edition of the Open House Prague festival will be revealed. This exciting festival is scheduled to take place from May 12 to 18, 2025, featuring a variety of supplementary programs – including debates, lectures, guided walks, exhibitions, and various other engaging events.
The festival will reach its peak on the weekend of May 17 and 18, with the opening of 125 normally inaccessible buildings and spaces throughout Prague. Visitors will have the chance to explore a mix of public and private sites for free – ranging from historic palaces and exquisite villas to industrial landmarks and cutting-edge new constructions.
