Karlínská kasárna Site of events

Karlínská kasárna is a classical historical building in Prague 8, district Karlín. It is an important monument to history and architecture, protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. It is located on a strategically located plot above the highest condition of Vltava.

The establishment of barracks dates back to the 1940s, when the army needed better accommodation in the capital of the Czech Kingdom. In 1842, the Court War Council decided to build a new barracks with a capacity for 2000 men on the property behind the city walls near the Poříčská gate. The construction started in 1846-1849 under the direction of Vojtěch Lanny's elder was completed in 1851.

The barracks are an example of classical style. Its five-storey structure and location from the streets of the First Regiment, Křižikov and Vítkov contribute to its historical and visual impact on the surroundings. The barracks is a neighbour with the hill Vítkov and Negrelli viadutu.

During its existence, the barracks went through several changes of owners and purposes. During the Austrian-Hungarian monarchy, Ferdinand's barracks were named after Emperor Ferdinand I. After 1918 she accepted the name Karlínská kasárna Jan Žižka from Trocnova. During World War II it served for the needs of the Wehrmacht and in 1968 there was a provisional anti-occupation broadcast of an independent Czechoslovak radio. At different times, it was home to military forces, like the 8th Sapera Battalion and the 5th Groom Regiment.

There have been interesting changes in the purpose of barracks in recent years. After a failed attempt to privatise in 2013, the building was transferred to the administration of the Ministry of Justice, which planned its conversion into a judicial palace. In the meantime, the cultural centre was developed under the direction of the Prague Centre, which enabled the public to explore newly adapted premises such as summer cinema, fireplace and playground. The project was also marked by the reconstruction of the former army pool for the cafe and the room for lectures.

Today Karlínská kasárna is not only a monument with rich history, but also an active cultural centre. Its importance lies both in past military services and in current cultural and social life. Exploring barracks is valuable for historians and curious tourists who are interested in the rich past and the current use of this unique place. The visit offers an opportunity to explore their architectural beauty and live cultural program.