A new tower within the tower

About the project

Jindřišská Tower has undergone a unique transformation that connects historic value with contemporary use. The ‘tower within a tower’ project is among the exceptional architectural achievements in a European context.

Idea and vision

Jindřišská Tower aims to become a symbol of Prague, the city of a hundred spires, and to restore the bells to their historic dignity. The project also highlights the outstanding quality of traditional crafts, especially carpentry, and connects them with contemporary use of the monument.

Challenges of the build

Constructing the insert brought a series of technical constraints. In the enclosed historic space it was impossible to use conventional building methods or modern machinery. In many respects, the build therefore reverted to methods used by medieval builders.

"Anyone who hasn’t built a high-rise inside a finished shell won’t believe it."

Architectural solution

The insert uses a compact footprint and is organised vertically around a central circulation core (stairs and lift).

1 underground level
ground floor + 10 upper floors
a standalone structure inserted into the historic shell

Materials used — wood, concrete, ceramics, metal and glass — respect the original building while clearly distinguishing new elements from the historic fabric.

Detail and craft

The architectural solution works with detail and respect for the original structure:

columns set back from the historic walls
a staircase that does not touch the perimeter walls
pyramid-shaped openings in the ceilings
traditional materials in a contemporary execution

The result is a space that preserves the atmosphere of the tower while meeting contemporary requirements.

A new life for the tower

The insert has opened Jindřišská Tower to the public as an exhibition and viewing space. Thanks to modern technologies and facilities, it offers visitors new ways to experience the building without compromising its historic essence.

A story hidden in the spire

The renovation included opening the tower’s spire, where historical documents from 1879 and 1971 were found. These messages were added to by contemporary figures from public and cultural life, creating a unique legacy for future generations.

"Today there is a lot of work, times are quite harsh, morals are poor… I wish you a better tomorrow."

Ceremonial completion

The project was ceremonially completed after two years of intensive work. The symbolic moment was the tower’s return to life accompanied by the historic bell Maria from 1518.