Palác Křižík

Palác Křižík is one of the more architecturally interesting office complexes in Prague, sitting right on the border between the Smíchov and Anděl neighborhoods. It's not a classic sightseeing stop, but the building's history and its striking mix of old and new architecture make it worth a short detour if you're already exploring this part of the city.

Why does it carry this name?

The complex is named after František Křižík (1847–1941), a Czech inventor and industrialist who was one of the most important figures in Central European electrical engineering. His original production works once stood on this exact site, near today's Radlická street. Six interconnected industrial buildings from the early 20th century still form the historic core of the whole development.

How did the building change over time?

For decades the site served industrial purposes and picked up a patchwork of makeshift additions along the way. Everything changed with a major reconstruction carried out between 2004 and 2007. Architects stripped away the later industrial add-ons, opened up the inner courtyard, and covered it with a glass roof, creating the striking atrium that now defines the place. The original historic facades were restored, while modern building technology was fitted throughout the interior. In 2012 the complex grew further with a new building that now houses the headquarters of Seznam.cz, a major Czech internet company. Altogether, the site offers more than 25,000 square meters of leasable space across seven floors above ground and four below, including roughly 250 parking spaces.

What's worth seeing?

The main appeal of Palác Křižík is the contrast between century-old brick industrial architecture and the modern glass-covered atrium built during the renovation. It's a good example of how Prague has been reviving old industrial sites instead of tearing them down. The facades along Radlická and Nádražní streets let you appreciate the architectural details from the outside — this is a working office complex, not a paid attraction with open access. It pairs well with a walk around Anděl, an area known for shopping centers, cinemas, and restaurants.

How do you get there?

The easiest way is by metro line B to Anděl station, just a few minutes' walk from the building. The area is also well served by trams, since Anděl is one of the busiest transit hubs in Prague 5.

When should you visit?

Since this is an active office building, weekday daytime visits work best — the surrounding streets are lively and natural light shows off the facades well. Weekends are quieter in the neighborhood, but the building itself looks just as good.

Frequently asked questions

Can visitors go inside Palác Křižík? It's a working office complex, so there's no general public access to the interior. You can, however, view the facades and overall architecture from the street.

Where does the name come from? It's named after František Křižík, a Czech inventor and electrical engineering pioneer whose factory once occupied this site.

Which company is headquartered here? The newer part of the complex, added in 2012, houses the headquarters of the Czech internet company Seznam.cz.

What's the fastest way to reach it? Take metro line B to Anděl station — from there it's just a short walk.