Project History
The tradition of gas lighting in Prague dates back to 1847, when the first 200 streetlights supplied with gas from the Vratislavská gasworks in Karlín were ceremoniously lit.
Gradually, the divorce proceedings were extended to Charles Bridge, Lesser Town and Hradčany, where another 150 lamps were added.
After the Wroclaw Gas Works’ monopoly expired, the Žižkov Gas Works took over the supply the Žižkov Gas Works (1867), which led to rapid development—in 1871 , Prague was already lit by 2,598 gas lamps.
Leading architects of their time contributed to the design of these light fixtures, creating a wide range of both standard and original designs.
At first, the lanterns were lit by hand; later, they were lit automatically using small burners.
Current Solution
In 2003 , a project was launched to to reintroduce gas-powered street lighting in the historic districts of Prague.
The goal was to to increase the city’s appeal to tourists, revive its romantic atmosphere and build on the historical tradition.
Gas lighting today consists of the continuous route of the Royal Road – from Dust Gates through Celetná, Old Town Square, Karlova Street, Charles Bridge, Mosteckou, Neruda’s up to Hradčany Square.
Other streetlights are located on the following streets Michalská, Melantrichova, Uhelný trh, Železná and Fruit Market.
In total, there are 649 gas lamps, of which:
- 265 columns (19 three-armed, 203 two-armed, 46 single-armed),
- 140 arms.
The final stage – the upper section of Nerudova Street, Ke Hradu, and the area around Malostranské Square – was completed in 2012.
The path ends at Hradčany with a rare eight-armed candelabra, which has become a symbol of the return of historic lighting to the city center.
Significance of the Project
The restoration of the gas lighting has shown that this type of lighting fixture is an integral part of Prague’s historic preservation district.
It contributes to enhancing the atmosphere of the historic centerand to the romantic character of Prague in the evening and to visual continuity with European capitalssuch as Berlin or London.
