Prague is preparing a model for the operation of the planned Philharmonic on the Vltava

Prague - The Prague City Hall is preparing a model for the operation of the upcoming Philharmonic building at Vltavská, which will also influence the subsequent financing of its construction. It will address, for example, which musical ensembles will be based in the new building or whether the city will establish a special organization or company for its operation. In an interview with ČTK today, the Deputy Mayor for Culture Jiří Pospíšil (TOP 09) stated this. He added that the proposal should be completed this year. He stated that the Symphony Orchestra of the Capital City of Prague FOK should in any case be based in the new building.

The project for the construction of the new Philharmonic is being prepared by the Prague City Hall, which last year signed a contract for the preparation of project documentation worth 1.02 billion crowns excluding VAT with the Danish architectural studio Bjarke Ingels Group. According to estimates from June of last year, the construction is expected to cost 9.4 billion crowns and is planned to begin in 2027. It is expected to be completed five years later.

There is still no clarity regarding the financing of the construction; according to earlier statements, the city is counting on a state contribution and is also considering the possibility of obtaining funds from private sources. According to Pospíšil, it is important to create a model for the future operation of the Philharmonic for financing, from which it will be determined, for example, whether the state will contribute directly to the construction or will participate in the payment of the project through future rent.

The prepared material will also address the use of the building, according to the deputy. "For me, it is important that it must primarily be the seat of a Prague musical ensemble," he said. Regarding the Czech Philharmonic, it is being discussed whether it will be based directly in the new building or will use it while retaining its headquarters at Rudolfinum. The planned extensive complex will also include cafés or restaurants, and there should also be a music section of the City Library of Prague, for example.

According to earlier information, the Philharmonic will have three halls - a concert hall for 1,800 spectators, a smaller chamber music hall with a capacity of 500 seats, and a multifunctional hall for other genres and types of events with a capacity of up to 700 people. The construction of the new cultural center is part of the transformation of the Bubny-Zátory area, where the city plans to create a district for up to 25,000 people.