Smetanova síň

Smetanova síň (Smetana Hall) is an Art Nouveau concert hall inside the Municipal House (Obecní dům) on Republic Square in Prague, one of the city's most recognizable Art Nouveau buildings. The hall serves as the main home stage of the Prague Symphony Orchestra FOK and hosts hundreds of concerts every year, including performances tied to major international music festivals.

Where does the name come from?

The hall is named after Bedřich Smetana, the founder of modern Czech music and one of the country's most important composers. The choice was deliberate: the Municipal House was conceived from the start as a space celebrating Czech national culture, and Smetana's legacy was a natural reference point for the architects and artists who shaped the building.

When was it built and who designed it?

Smetanova síň was constructed between 1905 and 1912 to designs by architects Antonín Balšánek and Osvald Polívka. It was formally opened on January 5, 1912. Many prominent Czech artists of the period contributed to its interior decoration, making it one of the most representative Art Nouveau interiors in Central Europe. The builders opted for bold spatial solutions — the hall's vaulting reportedly drew inspiration from sources such as Hagia Sophia in Istanbul — giving the interior a monumental, almost sacred character. The hall was envisioned as a kind of "temple of art."

What decorative details stand out inside?

On either side of the stage stand two stucco sculptural groups, "Vyšehrad" and "Slavonic Dances," created by Ladislav Šaloun — among the most distinctive features of the hall's decoration. These are complemented by the rich Art Nouveau ornamentation found throughout the Municipal House.

How many people can the hall seat?

Smetanova síň can accommodate around 1,200 spectators, making it one of Prague's larger concert venues and allowing it to host everything from intimate recitals to full symphonic concerts and grand ceremonial events.

Has the hall been renovated?

Yes — together with the entire Municipal House, Smetanova síň underwent a thorough reconstruction between 1992 and 1994. The renovation restored the historic splendor of the interior and brought the hall up to modern acoustic and technical standards while preserving its original Art Nouveau character.

What kind of events take place there?

The hall is primarily the home stage of the Prague Symphony Orchestra FOK, but it also hosts guest orchestras and soloists, concerts held as part of international music festivals, and other cultural events organized within the Municipal House — ranging from classical music concerts to formal galas and conferences.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Smetanova síň located? Inside the Municipal House (Obecní dům) on Republic Square in central Prague.

Who designed the hall? Architects Antonín Balšánek and Osvald Polívka, built between 1905 and 1912.

Why is the hall named after Smetana? In honor of Bedřich Smetana, one of the most important Czech composers, recognizing his role in shaping Czech national music.

How many seats does the hall have? Around 1,200.

Can visitors see it outside of concerts? The Municipal House offers guided tours that include its representative interiors, among them Smetanova síň — it's worth checking the current tour schedule before visiting.