Prague's Negrelli Viaduct opens its first glass-enclosed arch as culture center

The first glass-enclosed arch of Prague’s historic Negrelli Viaduct has officially opened, marking a significant milestone in the city’s ambitious plan to transform the 19th-century railway bridge into a modern cultural and commercial hub. This newly renovated space will serve as both an information and cultural center, open to the public during a two-year trial period aimed at assessing its viability and future potential.

The newly unveiled Arch 36 is the first of many designed to be adaptable for public and commercial use. During this pilot phase, it will be free for public, non-commercial use, while businesses will need to pay a fee for commercial activities. 

Prague councilor for property Adam Zábranský shared the city’s vision to install glass panes on 40 of the viaduct’s arches at the ceremonial opening on Tuesday. “Forty percent will be leased commercially, 40 percent allocated to cultural entities, and the remaining 20 percent will serve short-term, rotating startups,” Zábranský said.

During the trial phase, the city will assess operational costs, including heating, to ensure financial sustainability. If the results are positive, additional arches will be fitted with glass, although the process will be gradual to manage costs, Zábranský added.

Prague 8 Mayor Ondřej Gros praised the project as a significant improvement for the area. He noted that the careful revitalization of the landmark, a defining feature of Karlín once marked by disorganized parking and neglect, reflects the structure’s importance.

The viaduct is etched in the capital's history. Constructed in the mid-19th century, the 99-arch structure spans 1,110 meters, making it the longest railway bridge in the Czech Republic. It is also the second-oldest bridge in Prague after Charles Bridge, designed by Austrian engineer Alois Negrelli von Mold-Elbe. It was originally built as the main rail line connecting Vienna, Prague, and Dresden.

Additionally, experts from the Czech Technical University will monitor the viaduct’s structural behavior, ensuring that the space can handle the pressures of urban traffic and environmental conditions.

The project is seen as a key part of a larger effort to revitalize Prague’s Karlín and Florenc neighborhoods, which includes planned renovations of local infrastructure, such as the Karlín barracks and Florenc metro station.

The glass-fitted arch, designed by architects Yvette Vašourková and Igor Kovačević from the CCEA MOBA studio, aims to test energy efficiency and explore various uses for the space. The pilot phase, which began in August 2023, envisioned an information center aligned with the “15-minute city” concept. Future plans for the space include cafes, cultural venues, and startup hubs.

Reservations for the space can be made online, with on-site custodians ensuring proper use. The project reflects Prague’s commitment to innovative urban renewal, according to city officials.