Zizkov Television Tower Prague: A Comprehensive Guide
The Zizkov Television Tower, standing tall in Prague’s Zizkov district, is an iconic landmark and the tallest structure in the Czech Republic. At 216 meters (709 feet) and weighing approximately 2,200 tons, this imposing structure dominates the Prague skyline. Designed by architects Václav Aulický and Jiří Kozák, the tower was conceived in the 1980s, with construction commencing in 1985. It officially began broadcasting on February 18, 1992.
Construction and Design of the Zizkov Television Tower
The Zizkov Television Tower’s unique design comprises three steel tubes. The main tube houses two passenger elevators, while the other two tubes accommodate a freight elevator and a staircase, respectively. Visitors can access an observation deck situated at a height of 97 meters (318 feet), offering breathtaking panoramic views of Prague.
The tower’s foundation rests on a robust, 4-meter thick reinforced concrete slab with a diameter of 30 meters, buried 15 meters below the original ground level. Three cylindrical steel tubes form the vertical structure. Two secondary tubes, one containing an emergency staircase and the other a service elevator, each measure 4.8 meters in diameter and reach a height of 134 meters. The central tube, housing two passenger elevators, has a diameter of 6.4 meters and gradually transitions into the antenna mast, extending to the full height of 216 meters. These tubes are constructed from concentric steel pipes with a 30 cm gap filled with concrete, providing exceptional stability.
Three triangular cabins are suspended from these vertical tubes. A restaurant is located at 66 meters (217 feet), a public observation deck offering visibility up to 100 km (62 miles) is situated at 93 meters (305 feet), and a topmost cabin houses broadcasting equipment (not accessible to the public). Ingenious internal pendulums minimize any sway or oscillations of the tower.
Illumination and Modernization of the Zizkov Tower
Since 2006, commemorating the 125th anniversary of Zizkov’s elevation to city status and the 15th anniversary of the tower’s operation, the lower platforms of the Zizkov Television Tower have been illuminated in various colors, often showcasing the Czech tricolor.
Between 2011 and 2012, the tower underwent extensive renovations, temporarily closing the restaurant and observation deck. Today, the lower observation area houses a panoramic restaurant, a café, and luxurious hotel apartments, while the upper level continues to function as an observation deck. Surrounding the tower is a park featuring a garden restaurant with a summer terrace, a picnic area, and a mini-golf course.
The Babies of Zizkov Television Tower
One of the tower’s most distinctive features is the installation of ten giant black crawling babies, known as “Mimina Babies,” by Czech sculptor David Černý. Originally placed on the tower in May 2000, the sculptures were temporarily removed in November 2000 and reinstalled in October 2001. These striking figures have become synonymous with the Zizkov Television Tower, adding a unique artistic element to this architectural marvel. They provide a surprising and thought-provoking contrast to the tower’s futuristic design.
The Zizkov Television Tower stands as a testament to modern engineering and architectural ingenuity, while also serving as a cultural icon and a must-see destination for visitors to Prague. Its unique design, panoramic views, and artistic embellishments combine to create an unforgettable experience.
