A house built by a singing society, and decorated by the most famous hand of Czech Art Nouveau.
At a glance
The Hlahol Building stands on the Masaryk Embankment on the Prague riverfront, a Secession house built between 1903 and 1905 for the Hlahol choral society. Easily recognised from the river by the bold, colourful decoration of its facade, it was designed by the architect Josef Fanta and adorned by a remarkable group of artists, including the painter Alfons Mucha. It has been a protected cultural monument since 1964, and remains the home of the choir that built it.
Key facts
- Architect: Josef Fanta (after an initial design by František Schlaffer)
- Built: 1903–1905; opened September 1905
- Built for: the Hlahol choral society (founded 1861)
- Decoration: Alfons Mucha, Karel L. Klusáček, Josef Pekárek, Karel Mottl
- Location: Masaryk Embankment / Vojtěšská Street
- Status: cultural monument since 1964
History
The Hlahol choral society was founded in Prague in 1861 and grew into one of the leading patriotic singing associations of the Czech national revival. After moving between several homes, it raised funds from its members to build a house of its own.
A plot on the embankment was bought in 1903, and construction began in 1904 under the builder Čeněk Gregor, at first to a design by the society member František Schlaffer and then completed by the architect Josef Fanta. The building opened in September 1905 with the choir’s first rehearsal in its new hall.
Its decoration drew on the leading artists of the day, among them Alfons Mucha, and the house has been a protected monument since 1964.
What you see
The riverfront facade is the building’s signature: a Secession front made memorable by strong, colourful decorative elements that stand out along the embankment. Painting and sculpture are woven into the architecture, with contributions from Karel Ludvík Klusáček, the sculptor Josef Pekárek and the painter Alfons Mucha.
The theme throughout is music and national feeling, fitting for the home of a patriotic choir. Inside is a concert and rehearsal hall, the practical heart of a building conceived as a temple to Czech song.
Practical information
- The Hlahol is an active concert and society house; the facade is seen from the embankment.
- Interior access depends on concerts and events — check the current programme.
- Time needed: a short stop on a riverfront walk.
Getting there
The building is on the Masaryk Embankment (Masarykovo nábřeží) on the right bank of the Vltava, a short walk south of the National Theatre.
Nearby
- The National Theatre and the riverfront promenade.
- The Dancing House, a short walk upstream.
- The Grand Hotel Evropa on Wenceslas Square.
Sources
- Wikipedia (CS), “Spolkový dům Hlahol”.
- Czech cultural-monument register (památkový katalog).
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