Lucerna Palace

The Lucerna Palace, located in the lively Nové Město district in Prague, is a symbol of the architectural and cultural elegance of the early 20th century. Built between 1907 and 1920, the palace was designed by engineer and entrepreneur Vácslav Havel, grandfather of future Czech president Václav Havel. This multifunctional building perfectly embodies the Art Nouveau style, characterized by fluid lines and elaborate decorations inspired by nature and modernity of the time. Inside, it houses a historic cinema, the Lucerna Cinema, which is the oldest continuously operating cinema in the Czech Republic, opened in 1909. The main hall of the palace, known as the Grand Hall, can accommodate up to 4,000 people and has hosted internationally renowned artists, making the Lucerna a landmark for concerts and cultural events. One of the most fascinating elements of the Lucerna Palace is the statue “The Horse” by Czech artist David Černý, depicting Saint Wenceslas sitting on an upside-down horse, a work that blends irony and provocation, typical characteristics of Černý’s creations. In addition to entertainment spaces, the palace houses a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, and art galleries, making it a meeting and socializing place for residents and tourists. The rooftop terrace of the Lucerna offers a unique panoramic view of the city, a perfect place to relax and admire Prague from above. The Lucerna Palace has gone through various historical and political phases, from the period of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, through the two world wars, to the Velvet Revolution of 1989. Throughout this time, it has remained a symbol of resilience and culture, adapting and reinventing itself to respond to the changes in Czech society. Nové Město, the district that houses the Lucerna, was founded in 1348 by Emperor Charles IV and has always played a central role in the commercial and social life of Prague. Today, Nové Město is one of the most dynamic areas of the city, with a mix of history and modernity that reflects the continuous evolution of Prague as the cultural and economic capital of Central Europe. The Lucerna Palace, with its rich history and vibrant present, is one of the brightest examples of this.