Renovated Prague 3 square features budding new greenery and a public scale

Renovation work on Prague 3's long-neglected Tachovské náměstí was recently completed earlier this year, and new trees planted at the location have already started to bloom. The new area includes modernized amenities such as trees, benches, flower beds, and improved accessibility for bikers and pedestrians travelling to the adjacent Vítkov Hill.

The restoration work began in mid-2022 and cost nearly 77 million crowns. It involved the removal of inaccessible terrain and outdated structures, such as the former public toilets and a locksmith's workshop. In their place, freshly paved areas with benches, flowers, and trees now offer residents and visitors a welcoming environment to relax and socialize.

"In my opinion, it's a great transformation and the place looks incredible," says Prague Deputy Mayor Zdeněk Hřib, who points out the newly-restored square on social media. "Personally, I am very happy, mainly from the newly planted trees. When they grow up and enjoy themselves, there will be a beautifully shaded relaxation oasis. In addition, as it is well known, trees are the best air conditioning unit for the city."

The project, spearheaded by architect Štěpán Valouch of the OVA studio, aimed to restore the square's historical character while incorporating modern amenities to enhance its functionality and appeal.

Valouch's design pays homage to the square's past, incorporating elements like a functional town scale—a nod to the location's history as a marketplace where goods were weighed by official city measures.

"You can also weigh yourself on the scale in the square!" adds Hřib. "The place used to be called Vážák, because the market sellers weighed goods on municipal weights. Now this is such a nice reminder."

Practical considerations were also addressed in the redesign. A new ramp provides improved access to the nearby Vítkov cycle path, promoting sustainable modes of transportation and enhancing connectivity within the community. A renovated pump, previously located in front of the nearby U Slovanská lípy pub, now serves as a source of potable drinking water.

Underground waste containers and extended stairs contribute to a cleaner, more organized layout, while a newly installed lighthouse sculpture serves as a distinctive landmark, guiding visitors and residents alike. The area will continue to improve in the near future, with artwork set to adorn the entrance into the adjacent Žižkov Tunnel.

"The construction of the tunnel in 1953 insensitively divided the area, which effectively lost the character of the square. The current modification is a return to its original state," Prague 3 Mayor Michal Vronský states through a press release.

"The place is now a worthy gateway to Vítkov, even for those coming from Karlín. It is a multi-level intersection of many roads and many modes of transportation. This gives Lower Žižkov a new local center."