Two historic Prague 7 sites are evolving into major cultural hotspots

Prague 7 is undergoing a long-term transformation as two of its largest public complexes, the Holešovice Market Hall (Holešovická tržnice) and the Prague Exhibition Grounds (Výstaviště Praha), continue to expand, modernize, and redefine their role in the city.

Both sites, managed by the municipal company Výstaviště Praha, have seen billions of crowns in investment since 2018. The changes are steadily turning former industrial and exhibition areas into year-round destinations for culture, food, and events.

Despite ongoing reconstruction, visitor numbers are rising sharply. Together, the two areas now attract nearly 6 million visits annually, according to city figures. City officials say the next phase of development will determine how both spaces function over the coming decades.

The most visible change is taking place at the Prague Exhibition Grounds, where the long-awaited reconstruction of the Industrial Palace is nearing completion after years of work and a major fire that destroyed its left wing in 2008.

The project, which costs more than CZK 3 billion, is expected to be handed over in June, with the first public events planned for the autumn season. Once reopened, the historic building will serve as a flagship venue for exhibitions, trade fairs, and cultural programming.

“After completion, the Industrial Palace will become a significant event space with nationwide importance,” says Prague councilor for property and transparency Adam Zábranský.

The reopening is expected to mark a turning point for the entire Exhibition Grounds, which have remained partially under reconstruction for several years while other buildings were gradually modernized.

Alongside the palace, major upgrades have been completed or are ongoing across the site, including Nová Spirála, the Křižík Pavilions, and supporting infrastructure intended to strengthen year-round operations.

Just a short walk away, the Holešovice Market Hall is undergoing a slower but steady revival. Once a deteriorating industrial market complex, it is being repositioned as a mixed-use urban district combining gastronomy, retail, culture, and public space.

The city has invested more than CZK 250 million over the past two years, including reconstruction of the former livestock exchange building, which is scheduled to open in 2026.

Further renovations across multiple halls are ongoing, though officials estimate that full redevelopment could ultimately require up to CZK 5 billion in investment.

Despite its condition, the site is already showing strong results. Visitor numbers reached nearly 3 million in 2025, reflecting continued growth even during construction work.

City representatives argue that delaying investment would reduce the site’s economic potential, while long-term redevelopment could significantly increase revenues for the municipality.

City officials describe both sites as long-term projects that will continue evolving over the next decade, shifting from partially industrial and underused areas into fully integrated cultural districts.

“The future of both areas is clear: they will become stable points on Prague’s cultural map, combining services, gastronomy, sport, and culture for both residents and visitors,” said Zábranský.

While the Prague Exhibition Grounds are approaching a major reopening phase, the Holešovice Market Hall remains earlier in its redevelopment timeline. Together, however, they are increasingly defining Prague 7 as one of the city’s fastest-changing districts.

For more information, a full list of venues, and upcoming events, visit the official websites for Prague Exhibition Grounds and Holešovice Market Hall.