A cultural and social space created by glazing one of the arches of the Negrelli Viaduct has opened in Prague’s Karlín district. It is intended primarily for hosting non-commercial events. It will operate on a trial basis for two years. In the future, the city plans to glaze up to 40 arches of the bridge and create spaces within them for galleries, social events, or offer them for commercial rent.

A new relaxation spot for Prague residents is being prepared under the Negrelli Viaduct. The vision is to create a balanced mix of non-commercial and commercial entities so that the space can become self-sustaining while remaining diverse. A library branch, a senior citizens’ club, a new bistro, or an interesting startup could be established beneath the viaduct. The Karlín Music Theater has already expressed interest in three of the arches, where it would like to set up its summer stage.

In the long term, the project aims to preserve social diversity and build on Karlín’s history as a port and historically industrial part of Prague.

The structures of the infill are designed to be fully removable. Glazing the arch space will not affect pedestrians or other traffic routes in the area. The side portals spanning Sokolovská Street are used as walkways and driveways under the viaduct.

As part of the project, new glazed facades are being installed on the east and west sides of Arch No. 036 of the Negrelli Viaduct, and the interior and facilities for the Prague City Hall Information Center are being completed. From an urban planning perspective, compared to the long-term situation prior to the comprehensive reconstruction of the Negrelli Viaduct—when the arch was closed off and served as a garage—the main changes have been in its permeability, public accessibility, and mode of use.