Prague's First Skyscraper: The Pension Institute Palace

The iconic functionalist building designed by Josef Havlíček and Karel Honzík, completed in 1934, left an indelible mark on the skyline of Žižkov and all of Prague. It is not only the most published Czech building abroad and the tallest building in Czechoslovakia at the time - it is also a story full of disputes, dramatic turns, and mounting economic crisis.

How did two architects in their late twenties manage to secure such a significant commission? Why does the building feature its iconic ceramic cladding? And why did a battle between steel and reinforced concrete unfold during its construction? A guided tour with architect Jan Bureš will answer these questions.

The tour includes visits to the building's interiors and roof. The tour lasts 2.5 hours, with the meeting point at Náměstí Winstona Churchilla 1800/2, Prague 3-Žižkov.