Architecture Day: Prague - ČSSZ Machine Card File

A unique machine card file from 1936 in the functionalist building of the Czech Social Security Administration.

The former Central Social Insurance Office building was constructed in 1936-1937 according to designs by architects František Albert Libra and Jiří Kan; three construction companies carried out the work. The still-functional card file measures 52 meters long, 7 meters wide, and 8 meters high, containing nine thousand three-meter drawers operated by eighteen mobile work platforms. Since 2004 it has been listed as a national cultural monument. The structure was designed by Ferdinand Ludwig from Vítkovické Iron Works, and the filing system was supplied by Ing. Podhajský's engineering works in Prague's Hostivař district.

František Albert Libra (1891-1958) was an architect and urban planner, a graduate of the Czech Technical University in Prague. His work ranges from national style through decorativism to purism and covers a wide range of building typologies. Among his best-known works are the Kolonie svoboda on the border of Vinohrady and Vršovice, the Central Social Insurance Office building in Žlíchov, and the Velvar synagogue. He was also actively involved in competitions and exhibition architecture design.

Minimum age 18. For security reasons, a name will be required when booking. Reservations are possible until 27 September.