Karlín – Important buildings of the lively neighborhood
Karlín is located in the Prague 8 city section. It neighbours on Libeň and Žižkov and boasts a prime location on the bank of the Vltava River.
The municipality was founded in 1817 in the former Špitálské pole. Karlín became a part of Greater Prague in 1922. It was named after the wife of Emperor Franz I, who was named Caroline Augusta. The quartier originally included the island of Štvanice, which is now part of Holešovice-Bubny.
Significant structures give the quartier its image
There are many buildings in Karlín which date back to the industrial boom. Modern times have given many of these buildings a luxurious new look and function. However, there is no lack of decorative architecture in Karlín’s streets and the modern buildings have garnered acclaim around the world.
Invalidovna and Negrelli Viaduct
The extensive Baroque military compound was built here in 1731-1737 and served as accommodation for army invalids and their families. There were military training grounds in the vicinity, as well as a chapel, park and vegetable gardens.
Construction of the Negrelli Viaduct that connects Masaryk Station to Prague Bubny station began in 1846. The reason was the building of the first train line abroad – to Dresden.
Dominant church, gas plant, Art Nouveau school and barracks
There is a little bit of everything in Karlín. The highlight on Karlín Square is the Church of Cyril and Methodius. It was also the site of the first Prague gas plant in the middle of the 19th Century, which supplied gas to 200 street lamps. It has since disappeared. There are also Art Nouveau treasures, such as the school building by architect Josef Sakař on Lyčkovo náměstí. The Karlín barracks neighbour on Vítkov Hill and the Negrelli Viaduct, and are protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic.
The 21st Century gave Karlín a new modern look
In the 21st Century, modern construction blew through Karlín like a tornado. Rohanské nábřeží is a luxury office district, with a modern triangle featuring the Danube House by New York based studio KPF. Standing in contrast to these sharp contours is the Main Point insurance company building with rounded shapes.
Thanks to architect Ricardo Boffilo, the former factory compound has been reconstructed into the luxury Corso office project. River Diamond on the riverfront offers luxury living, while Forum Karlín, the Karlín Music Theatre and countless pleasant cafes, restaurants and wine bars underscore the cultural aspect of this prestigious quartier.
