Dancing House: The Story of an Iconic Building

Created to mark the 30th anniversary of the Dancing House, this exhibition explores the history of one of Prague’s most iconic modern buildings, its architecture, and the lesser-known stories behind its creation. It is held under the auspices of the Dagmar and Václav Havel Foundation VIZE 97.

The Dancing House is closely associated with Václav Havel and the values of freedom, openness, and living in truth that he helped restore to Czech society after 1989. Today, these values also embrace respect for human dignity and the right to live one’s identity freely. This is why the Dancing House proudly supports LGBTQ+ rights as a natural part of the broader story of freedom that began to unfold in Prague after the Velvet Revolution. Every year during Prague Pride Festival, the building is illuminated in rainbow colours, reminding us that freedom has meaning only when it belongs to everyone.

The exhibition features previously unpublished archival materials, newly discovered photographs from the construction process, and an extensive photographic record documenting the building’s transformation over the past thirty years.

It also tells the story of the site itself, at the corner of Jiráskovo Square and Rašín Embankment, through historical photographs dating back to 1860 and a remarkable collection of period images. One of the exhibition’s highlights is the rare opportunity to visit the technical areas of the Dancing House, including views into its inner courtyard—spaces that are normally closed to the public.

Created in collaboration with the prestigious Frank O. Gehry Foundation, the exhibition also shines a spotlight on the architects behind the project. Visitors can see personal belongings and awards of Vlado Milunić and Václav Havel, original architectural drawings, and historical press coverage documenting the building’s construction. Highlights include original architectural models by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunić, a newly created detailed 1:18 scale model standing over two metres tall, a fold-out model, and several unrealised design proposals.

The exhibition also features original glass tables designed by architect Eva Jiřičná, original doors, lighting fixtures, office furniture from the 1990s, and the popular lenticular “flip” images.
Visitors can also explore interactive 3D visualisations on large touchscreens, digital presentations on iPads, and a programme of accompanying events and guided tours.

Entrance fee – 230 CZK adults, 185 CZK students under 26, 185 CZK seniors over 65 let, 150 CZK kids from 5 to 15 let, 600 CZK family (2 adults and up to 3 kids), 100 CZK disabled people

Accessibility – suitable also for children, for teenagers, accessible with a dog, barrier-free, for 18+ only

Vibe check – small event (approx. 30 people), seating options, indoors