Prague wants to build a science center for children at Florenc

Prague - Prague wants to build its own science center that would introduce children to the basics of science and technology in a playful and interactive way. It is set to be established in the Desfours Palace in Florenc. Jiří Pospíšil (TOP 09), the mayor's deputy, told ČTK. Currently, Prague residents have to travel to places like Techmania in Pilsen or IQLandia in Liberec for similar entertainment. According to Pospíšil, the project is in the zero stage. First, it is necessary to renovate the palace building, which is in a state of disrepair. Last autumn, the city approved the plan for its repair with a budget of over 750 million crowns.

"For now, it's in phase zero, and it will be up to my successors. It is supposed to be a center for cultural and scientific enjoyment for younger children and young people. To present some inventions, scientific insights, and the like in a witty and attractive way," Pospíšil said. He is inspired by Techmania in Pilsen, which was created in the buildings of the former Škodovka. "It is an incredibly successful project," Pospíšil noted.

The Desfours Palace is managed by the Museum of Prague, which is a contribution organization of the city council. The museum has already commissioned an architectural study for the reconstruction from architect Jakub Cígler. It should be completed in the second quarter of this year. The palace is currently in a state of disrepair, and access to it is prohibited.

The Desfours Palace was built in the late Neoclassical style between 1845 and 1847. The architect was Josef Kranner, who built it for Count Desfours-Walderode. Some original interiors, a three-armed suspended marble staircase, mosaic parquet floors, and other valuable items such as chandeliers, stained glass, and tiled stoves have been partially preserved inside.