Prague's Vinohrady is building a unique Hydropolis. The center will offer entertaining education about water.
As of today, we are almost halfway through the renovation of the historic Vinohradská water tower into the unique educational center Hydropolis. The entire project aims to uncover the unknown corners of the water world. What is behind the tap water and how is it possible that we can adjust the shower flow according to our preferences? Even these kinds of questions will be answered in the center in an interesting and educational way. Hydropolis will bring a modernist perspective on water management in unusual and progressive spaces. The anticipated opening for the public is expected in mid-2027. We had the opportunity to look into the construction sites and see how the entire project is progressing.
The construction is in full swing with a clear desire to open the center by the specified date.
“It will not be a museum. We will guide you through everything in a fun way that will be interactive. One silo will become a comprehensive exhibition, while the other will be re-engaged as the city's water supply. Part of the exhibition will also fill the water tower, which will simultaneously offer a magnificent view of Prague.”
stated the deputy mayor of Prague, Milan Hroza.
Supervision of Heritage Conservation is a Necessity
The entire reconstruction is being carried out in close cooperation with the national heritage institute. Given the rich history of the original waterworks, the entire renovation is approached very sensitively and with a certain caution.
"All visually exposed elements are subject to approval by the conservationists. Everything that is visible must be agreed upon with them. Specifically, for example, colors, window profiles, openings, or handles. They are basically here for approval every week."
explained Pavel Válek, Chairman of the Board of the Prague Waterworks Company.
The Vinohrady Tower is a historical landmark and is treated as such. The neo-Renaissance tower from the nineteenth century is a prominent feature of the Prague skyline. Thanks to the Hydropolis project, the tower will for the first time become a viewpoint over Prague, which is very likely to increase the popularity of the entire building.
After Hydropolis, You Can Also Head to Poland
If you can't wait for this unique experience, don't despair. One Hydropolis has already been successfully operating for some time with our neighbors. And that's in Wrocław, Poland.
You can purchase a full-day ticket from 256 Czech crowns. Visitors rate the entire center on review portals with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The modern construction from a former water reservoir offers up to 70 interactive installations and an audio guide available in six languages.
If trips around here don't excite you much or you don't feel like waiting, this option can be a pleasant family outing.
Preparation Phase
According to Pavel Valek, the entire construction is about halfway through. He says the project is divided into two parts, construction and exhibition.
Intensive work is also being done on preparing educational programs for schools, led by Jana Myšková.
"From the perspective of exhibition creation, the entire project is currently in the phase of finalizing content and technical documentation, which are essential for a smooth transition into the physical installation phase. The exhibition development team is also focused on detailed 'fine-tuning' of the comprehensive visitor experience and connecting the exhibition with the preparation of educational programs for schools. Once the Vinohrady site is constructively and technically available, the exhibition assembly work can begin."
added the CEO of Prague Waterworks and Sewerage, Petr Mrkos.
Sources: authorial text, press tour, hydropolis.cz, getyourguide.com, kudyznudy.cz
