The Prague Uprising – 80 Years Since May 1945

Commemorate the fateful days of May 1945 through exhibitions, memorial events, and a ceremonial procession.

Join us in exploring the story of Prague in May 1945 – from the uprising and wartime struggles to postwar trauma, hopes, and illusions. A series of exhibitions, a professional conference, first-hand recollections, an interactive map, podcasts, guided walks, and more will bring these dramatic days in the city's history to life.

To mark the 80th anniversary of the May 1945 Prague Uprising, the long-silenced Old Town bell (destroyed during the final days of the war) will symbolically ring again. Thanks to modern technology and collaboration with internationally renowned bell-maker Petr R. Manoušek, the museum has reconstructed both the shape and original sound of the bell. It will ring on 5 May 2025 at a commemorative event, and again on 8 May at 4 pm – the exact time it was silenced 80 years ago.

To guide you through the commemorations, we've launched a dedicated website: prazske-povstani.cz, offering a clear overview of the key events and partner institutions.

  • Exhibition: Rebirth of the Bell – Old Town Hall Information Centre from 5 May 2025

The bell, dating back to 1313, became one of the many "casualties" of WWII. Its destruction came during the final moments of the Prague Uprising. Discover new findings about its demise in an exhibition dedicated to this unique museum piece, now returning to its original home—where it once marked time and warned of danger. From 5 May, visitors can explore its story, original fragments, a faithful replica, and hear its authentic sound—all for free, right on the ground floor of the Old Town Hall. The exhibition was created in cooperation with Prague City Tourism.

  • Procession Happening from the National Theatre to Old Town Square – 5 May 2025

On 5 May, a commemorative procession will make its way from the National Theatre to Old Town Square, symbolically retracing the spirit of the uprising 80 years on. Starting at Václav Havel Square, the route will follow Národní Street to its conclusion at Old Town Square – where the city's oldest bell will ring once more. The square will also host one of the most important commemorative events of its kind. The procession is organized by the National Theatre in collaboration with us.

During the procession, visitors can also experience our artistic installation of a barricade. We invited artist Jakub Minářů (lab HRI) to create a sustainable wooden work of art that recalls the improvised street defenses of 1945. You'll find the barricade in Železná Street from 5 to 11 May.

 

Media Partner

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Venue

Old Town Square

Information

Date

From 5 May 2025