150 years of U Apolináře Hospital: From royal maternity ward to modern medical center
U Apolináře Hospital, originally known as the Royal Provincial Maternity Hospital, first opened its doors on April 22, 1875. Designed by renowned architect Josef Hlávka, its iconic red-brick building is one of the oldest maternity hospitals in Europe. Hlávka, known for his attention to detail, designed the facility to be not only functional but also aesthetically striking. The red brick façade lends the building its distinctive historic character.
A maternity ward with royal origins
At the time of its opening, the hospital was designed to handle up to 3,000 births annually. Its early years were marked by strict social norms—unwed mothers often faced stigma and discrimination. Despite this, the hospital quickly became a key medical institution, serving not only Prague but the entire region of Bohemia.
History through the eyes of a hospital
Over the decades, the hospital has witnessed many dramatic moments. During World War I, the number of births dropped to 1,683 per year. In contrast, the First Czechoslovak Republic saw that figure rise to 6,500. The highest birth rate came during World War II, when more than 9,000 children were born at the hospital in 1939 alone. This surge was partly due to people marrying and starting families to avoid being sent abroad for forced labour.
Looking ahead: modernization and expansion
Today, U Apolináře is not only a maternity hospital but also a leading centre for education and research in gynaecology and obstetrics. In recent years, a state-of-the-art postpartum centre has opened, allowing mothers who undergo caesarean sections to remain with their newborns immediately after birth. Plans are also underway for a major renovation and expansion of the facility to meet modern healthcare demands.
