The Jan Palach Square could undergo reconstruction in two years

Prague - Jan Palach Square in the center of Prague could undergo reconstruction in two years. The space is to be more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, and a dock for boats is also planned. The capital city announced a competition in 2002, which was won by the proposal of architects Václav Králíček and Stanislav Makarov. Today, the council allocated the public contract to Králíček for its update, which will include a new monument to Palach.

The monument was placed on Alšovo Embankment adjacent to the square this year on the anniversary of Palach's self-immolation. It is the work of American sculptor and architect of Czech origin John Hejduk (1929 to 2000).

In the original study, the architects propose constructing a cone in the middle of the square at the same height as the surrounding buildings, which would serve as a flagpole during ceremonial occasions. A new fountain should be placed along 17. listopadu Street. The square should be covered with paving, with grass only in its center.

The concrete outlet of the ventilation system from the underground garages would be moved from the center of the square under the benches; the update also considers the possibility of an outlet at the edge or outside the square. Exits from the parking lot would be in its corners. The monument to Antonín Dvořák should be moved either to the corner of the stairs to the Rudolfina or to the side entrance of the building. The update of the proposal will also address new furniture and street lamps.

The square is home to the Faculty of Arts at Charles University, the Academy of Art, Architecture and Design, and the Czech Philharmonic in the Neoclassical building of the Rudolfina.