New City Hall

Standing as a beacon of modernist architecture and civic pride, the New City Hall (Nová radnice) in Ostrava, Czech Republic, is a remarkable landmark that captures the spirit of this industrious city. This impressive building, with its distinctive tower and grand façade, has been a symbol of Ostrava's ambition and growth since its completion in 1930.

The History of the New City Hall

The story of the New City Hall begins in the early 20th century, when the need for a new administrative center became apparent. The Old City Hall had become inadequate for the expanding city's needs, and in 1923, the city administration approved a construction program and announced an architectural competition. The winning design came from architects František Kolář and Jan Rubý, whose vision for a modern, functional building would soon come to life.

Construction began in 1925 under the supervision of the young and talented architect Karel Kotas, with contributions from the renowned Brno architect Vladimír Fischer. Despite some initial legal delays, the project moved forward, and by 1930, the New City Hall was ready to open its doors. The grand opening took place on October 28, 1930, coinciding with the national holiday of Czechoslovakia.

Architectural Highlights

The New City Hall is a masterpiece of modernist architecture, characterized by its clean lines, functional design, and the use of high-quality materials. The building's most striking feature is its 85.6-meter-high tower, which dominates the Ostrava skyline. Originally intended to be built from stone, the tower was instead constructed with a lighter steel frame due to the unstable ground conditions, a common issue in Ostrava.

The tower's copper cladding gives it a distinctive green hue, and it is topped with a clock whose face measures an impressive 3.5 meters in diameter. At the base of the tower, a unique ribbed reinforced concrete slab supports the structure, ensuring its stability. The tower also houses a high-speed elevator, which was the tallest in the country at the time of its installation, reaching up to 51 meters.

Exploring the Interior

Inside, the New City Hall is just as impressive as its exterior. The interiors are adorned with marble, mahogany, and other rare woods, creating a sense of elegance and grandeur. The main entrance is flanked by six semicircular columns supporting a terrace with pilasters, while four bronze statues by Václav Hynek Mach stand proudly above the entrance, symbolizing the city's four key functions: mining, commerce, science, and metallurgy.

The foyer of the City Hall serves as an exhibition gallery, showcasing various artworks and historical artifacts. One notable piece that once resided here is a bust of T. G. Masaryk, the first president of Czechoslovakia, created by the sculptor Josef Mařatka. This bust has since been moved to the central Masaryk Square as part of its renovation.

Prokeš Square and the Icarus Statue

In front of the New City Hall lies Prokeš Square, named after Jan Prokeš, Ostrava's first mayor. The square is home to the striking statue of Icarus, created by Prague-based sculptor František Štork. Installed on July 1, 1999, this 3.5-meter-tall bronze sculpture stands on a granite fountain and symbolizes the ups and downs that Ostrava has experienced over the years. Weighing approximately seven tons, the statue has sparked mixed reactions from the locals, with some still finding it controversial.

Prokeš Square itself has a rich history, having undergone several name changes over the years. It was originally intended to host a monument to Masaryk, but this plan was never realized. Instead, the square was paved, with a grassy area in the center. From 1945 to 1948, it featured the first Czechoslovak tank to enter Ostrava, which was later moved to different locations within the city.

A Beacon of Civic Pride

The New City Hall is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of Ostrava's resilience and progress. Its construction marked a new era for the city, reflecting its transformation into a major urban center. Today, the New City Hall continues to serve as the administrative heart of Ostrava, housing various municipal offices and services.

Visitors to the New City Hall can take an elevator ride up the tower to an observation terrace at 73 meters, offering panoramic views of Ostrava and its surroundings. The tower is also illuminated at night, with light chains along its edges and spotlights highlighting its structure, making it a stunning sight against the night sky.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to explore one of Ostrava's most iconic landmarks, the New City Hall is a must-visit destination. Its blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and modern functionality make it a true gem in the heart of the city.