Vinohrady Theatre

Divadlo na Vinohradech (Vinohrady Theatre) is one of the most significant drama theatres in the Czech Republic, standing on náměstí Míru square in Prague's Vinohrady district (Prague 2). It is regarded as the largest dedicated drama venue in the country and has served as a cornerstone of Czech theatrical life for well over a century.

When was the building constructed?

The Art Nouveau building was erected between 1905 and 1907, funded and championed by residents of what was then the independent town of Královské Vinohrady. Construction was carried out by builders Jan Majer and Josef Veselý, following a design by architect Alois Čenský. The theatre opened in 1907 with a gala premiere of Jaroslav Vrchlický's play "Godiva."

What was the theatre originally called?

The venue began operating under the name Municipal Theatre of Royal Vinohrady (Městské divadlo Královských Vinohrad). Following the model of the National Theatre, it initially employed two ensembles — one for drama and one for opera. František Adolf Šubert was appointed as the first director, while dramaturgy and direction were entrusted to Jaroslav Kamper. The theatre has carried its current name, Divadlo na Vinohradech, continuously since February 1966.

What does the building look like?

The building is designed in a neo-Renaissance style with Art Nouveau elements. A distinctive feature of its façade is a pair of angel sculptures, symbolizing courage and truth. The theatre stands within the municipal heritage zone covering Vinohrady, Žižkov, and Vršovice, underscoring its significance as part of the historic fabric of this part of Prague.

What role does the theatre play today?

Divadlo na Vinohradech remains the largest specialized drama house in the Czech Republic. For more than a century it has continuously staged performances, blending tradition with a contemporary repertoire of Czech and international drama. The building on náměstí Míru functions today not only as a working theatre but also as a well-known architectural landmark of Vinohrady.

Where exactly is the theatre located?

The building stands in the central part of the Vinohrady district, on náměstí Míru square, close to other historic structures in this area of Prague 2. Its location makes it an easily accessible stop for visitors exploring this part of the city on foot or by public transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is the theatre building? The building was constructed between 1905 and 1907, making it well over one hundred and twenty years old, and it has functioned as a theatre venue since it opened.

Who designed the theatre? The architectural design was created by Alois Čenský, while the construction itself was carried out by Jan Majer and Josef Veselý.

Where does the theatre's name come from? The name derives from the Vinohrady district (formerly the independent town of Královské Vinohrady) where the theatre is located. The current form of the name, Divadlo na Vinohradech, was adopted in 1966.

What do the sculptures on the façade represent? The two angel figures on the building's façade are an allegory of courage and truth, reflecting the values the theatre was meant to embody from its founding.