Prague’s Historic Fanta Building Nears Full Restoration as Southern Wing Revamp Begins
Prague, The Gulf Observer: One of Czechia’s most iconic Art Nouveau landmarks, the historic Fanta Building of Prague’s main train station, is nearing the final stage of its long-awaited restoration. Launched in 2021 by the Czech Railway Administration, the extensive reconstruction aims to return the former grandeur of the structure, originally completed in 1909 and largely unused since 1979.
The building, designed by architect Josef Fanta, replaced the original Neo-Renaissance train station and served as the grand arrival point for emperors, presidents, and notable historical figures. It now stands on the brink of a revival, with work soon to commence on its southern wing—an estimated 750 million CZK undertaking.
Restoration to Original Glory, With a Modern Touch
According to Petr Hofhanzl, Director of the Railway Administration’s Construction Department, the southern wing will be restored to its original early-20th-century state, while also being adapted for contemporary public use. “We are not only restoring the architectural elegance,” Hofhanzl notes, “but also reimagining the space for new commercial purposes—such as cafés or patisseries.”
A significant transformation will occur in the former arrival hall, where post-war modifications—such as a 1950s retrofit ceiling and mosaic columns—will be removed. This intervention is intended to unveil the building’s authentic architectural elements, once concealed for decades.
Imperial Lounges and Legendary Guests
In addition to the public halls, the private salons used historically by state leaders and monarchs will also be refurbished. Terezie Krejbychová, Commercial Manager for the City of Prague, emphasized the historical importance of these spaces, originally used by Emperor Franz Joseph I and later by modern heads of state. Today, they remain operational as “government lounges” and are occasionally used to host international dignitaries.
The salons once welcomed a constellation of historical personalities, including Thomas Edison, Le Corbusier, and Charlie Chaplin. Perhaps most poignantly, the station is also remembered as the departure point for 669 mostly Jewish children rescued by Sir Nicholas Winton in the early days of World War II.
Rediscovered History and Public Reception
During renovations of the building’s northern wing, workers uncovered a polychrome painting of the Czechoslovak state crest, believed to have been created for the arrival of President Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk in 1918 after securing Czechoslovakia’s independence.
The restoration of the northern section has drawn wide praise. According to Jiří Svoboda, General Director of the Railway Administration, “Experts greatly appreciated the careful and sensitive approach we took. The Fanta Hall and the Column Hall have become vibrant venues for daily cultural events and conferences.”
Looking Ahead: A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
While preserving architectural and cultural heritage remains central to the project, modernization efforts are also underway. In 2023, Henning Larsen Architects of Denmark won an international competition to redesign the modern arrival hall, proposing an open-plan timber structure reflecting 21st-century design principles. Construction on this futuristic addition is slated to begin in 2028.
As restoration efforts continue, Prague’s main station is evolving into a symbol of the harmonious coexistence of history and modernity—a testament to Czechia’s dedication to architectural preservation and forward-looking infrastructure development.
