What Is Special About the Dancing House in Prague?

By Alice Nichols

The Dancing House in Prague, also known as the Fred and Ginger Building, is a unique architectural masterpiece that has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Designed by Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunić in collaboration with Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry, this building is unlike any other building in the world.

History of the Dancing House

The Dancing House was built between 1994 and 1996 on a site that was previously occupied by an old building that was destroyed during World War II. The site was left vacant for many years until it was purchased by Dutch insurance company Nationale-Nederlanden (now known as NN Group), who commissioned Milunić and Gehry to design a new building.

The Design of the Dancing House

The Dancing House’s design is inspired by the famous dancing duo Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The building consists of two parts – a concrete tower representing Fred Astaire and a glass tower representing Ginger Rogers. The two towers are connected by a curved structure that resembles a dancer’s skirt.

The unique design of the Dancing House has won several awards, including the Design of the Year award from Time magazine.

The Interior of the Dancing House

The interior of the Dancing House is just as impressive as its exterior. The building houses several offices, a restaurant, and an art gallery on its top floor. The art gallery offers stunning views of Prague’s skyline and features works by Czech artists.

  • The restaurant on the top floor offers fine dining options along with panoramic views.
  • The offices inside are known for their unique shapes due to the irregular shape of each floor.
  • Visitors can also enjoy a drink at one of two bars located within the building.

The Cultural Significance of the Dancing House

The Dancing House has become a symbol of the new era in Czech history. The building was built shortly after the fall of communism, and its unique design symbolizes a departure from the traditional architecture that dominated Prague for centuries.

The Dancing House is also an important landmark for the LGBTQ+ community in Prague. The building’s design is seen as a celebration of diversity and individuality, which are values that are important to the LGBTQ+ community.

Conclusion

The Dancing House in Prague is a testament to the power of creativity and imagination. Its unique design has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions of people around the world. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or just looking for an interesting place to visit, the Dancing House is definitely worth seeing.