Žižkov Tower: From Cold War relic to luxury in the sky
Soaring high above Prague’s rooftops, the Žižkov Television Tower is impossible to miss—and just as impossible to categorize. A product of late-communist engineering, this peculiar structure has been called everything from an eyesore to a masterpiece of high-tech design. But what many visitors don’t realize is that inside one of its iconic pods, perched 70 meters above ground, lies one of the city’s most exclusive places to spend the night.
Controversial beginnings, futuristic design
Constructed between 1985 and 1992, the Žižkov TV Tower was originally built to improve broadcast signals in Prague. Standing at 216 meters, it remains the tallest building in the Czech capital and was intended to block Western signals during the Cold War. However, its unusual design—a tripod-like structure with three concrete pillars and metallic capsules—sparked criticism almost from the start.
Even after the fall of communism, the tower remained a symbol of the era's authoritarian overreach. But over time, opinions shifted. With its new functions and a series of imaginative redesigns, the tower has been embraced as a striking example of Prague’s layered architectural identity.
Babies crawling up the sky
One major turning point came in 2000, when Czech artist David Černý added ten giant crawling babies to the tower’s exterior. These strange, faceless sculptures turned ridicule into curiosity—and helped transform the tower into one of Prague’s most talked-about landmarks.
Inside, the tower now houses a restaurant, a panoramic observation deck, and what might just be the most unique hotel room in the city.
One-room hotel with a view like no other
Dominik “Duchek,” the events and hotel manager at Žižkov Tower, offers a personal look behind the scenes of this luxury suite. Occupying an entire capsule, the room offers sweeping views across the city, from the Parukářka park and Olšany Cemetery to the distant hills beyond Malesice.
“This is quite a luxury apartment,” Dominik explains. “All the furniture and equipment here is top quality. Our CEO has connections with luxury designers, so everything you see here is really premium.”
Guests wake up to the sunrise over Prague, enjoy access to the observation deck above, and often book the space for special occasions—engagements, anniversaries, and even private dinners. Though the price tag reflects its exclusivity, last-minute discounts are sometimes available through the tower’s website or booking platforms.
A glimpse into the future
While the hotel suite is already a standout, Dominik hints at plans for further transformation. “We’re thinking about creating an entertainment space and maybe even a small, self-service spa,” he says. “We want to integrate more automation, so guests can enjoy privacy with smart technology.”
From Soviet-era tower to modern marvel
Once a tool of state control, the Žižkov Tower has reinvented itself as a destination in its own right. And for those willing to splurge, its sky-high suite offers a truly unforgettable way to experience the Czech capital—from a perspective unlike any other.
Žižkov Tower Fact Box
- Built: 1985–1992, during the final years of communist Czechoslovakia
- Height: 216 meters (tallest building in Prague)
- Original Purpose: Improve TV signal, jam Western broadcasts
- Modern Highlights: Observation deck, restaurant, and one luxury hotel suite
- Fun Fact: Adorned with giant fiberglass babies by artist David Černý
- Website: https://www.towerpark.cz/en
- Closest metro station: Jiřího z Poděbrad
