Novoměstská sokolovna Sokol gymnasium

Novoměstská sokolovna on Sokolská street no. 1437 / 43 in New Town is the first building with a gym in Bohemia. At the same time, it is the first falcon in the territory of the Czech Crown countries. The building was designed by the architect Vojtěch Ignác Ullmann and was built between 1862- 1863. It has become a key place for Sokol Prague and symbolizes the beginnings of the modern Sokol movement. Its importance lies in architecture and in the contribution to national renewal.

The building was established during the Czech movement for national and cultural liberation. The body unity of Prague (later TJ Sokol) sought its own space for exercise, which led to the building of this building. In 1862 the land was acquired on the former castle moats and subsequently the building under the leadership of Ullmann began. The symbolic digging of the foundations took place on 15 March 1862 and already in 1863 the building was opened as a seat of the Sokol of Prague.

The architecture of the New Town Sokolovna presents a neo-Renaissance style. The building with a rich stucco facade and roof railing was designed by Vojtěch Ignác Ullmann, who had recently completed the Provisional Theatre. The facade is decorated with mascarons and the motto of Henry Fügner "Ni profit ni fame" and Miroslav Tyrš "Let's go." The facade is the original storey entrance part, while the gym is headed for the interblock. In 1912 a second training room named after Miroslav Tyrš was added and in 1937 an apartment house was connected to the building.

The main part of the construction costs was paid by Jindřich Fügner, along with Miroslav Tyrš the key character of the Falcon. After Fügner's death in 1865, the gym was named after him. The interior decoration was created by Jan Preisler and František Ženíšek, which increased the aesthetic value of the whole work.

Novoměstská sokolovna has undergone several changes over the years. In the 1960s and 1970s, there was a significant reconstruction in which the building was increased and the adjacent courtyard stopped. Despite these interventions, the object maintained its historical and cultural value.

Today, the Sokol of Prague resides here. The building is worth visiting thanks to its appearance and the role of witness to an important period of Czech history. Its existence resembles the influence of physical education and the Sokol movement on the formation of national identity. Tourists can learn more about the history of this movement and explore the unique style of the neo-Renaissance era.

Novoměstská sokolovna is not only a monument, but a living witness to the past, which resembles the importance of national renewal. Its history and architecture make it an essential destination for every interested Czech culture.