St Annes Church Reconstruction

St. Anne’s Church, originally a Dominican Sisters' monastery in Prague’s Old Town, dates back to the 11th century when it was a Templar commandery. Expanded in the 1320s, it became a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Deconsecrated in the late 17th century, it later served as a paper warehouse, with preserved wooden floors from that era.

Thanks to Václav Havel and his wife, the church was restored and repurposed for their charitable foundation, VIZE 97. It now functions as a multifunctional space for concerts, conferences, exhibitions, and performances, with a capacity of up to 400 people. The restoration conserved original elements and introduced modern features, including a gallery staircase, a spiral staircase to the tower, steel ribs evoking Gothic vaults, and advanced lighting and acoustic systems. Restored frescoes are illuminated from the roof structure, and a symbolic altar by Adriena Šimotová graces the stage.

The renovation is largely complete, with further plans for expanding facilities, adding a gallery stage, and fully refurbishing the roof and facade. The project earned an honorable mention in the Grand Prix of the Society of Architects.

Location

Prague

Status

Realised

Year

2004

Programmes

Cultural

Surface

1 500 m²

Type

Reconstruction

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