The Architecture of Joze Plecnik

Joze Plecnik, the Slovenian born architect left a legacy in the city of Prague, even though he was only responsible for two projects, however, they were major projects, and his legacy is priceless. Plecnik studied under the famous architect Otto Wagner from 1894 to 1897 in Secessionist Vienna. After finishing his studies, Plecnik practiced architecture in Vienna for 10 years, having completed famous projects such as the Zacherl House and the Langer House, both combining elements of the Secession with the Modern. Plecnik moved to Prague in 1911 and begin teaching at the Arts and Crafts college, inspiring young Czech artists and architects, who would go on to become involved in the Czech avant-garde Cubist movement. His teachings emphasized both classical principles of architecture as well as folk art traditions, and these influences blended together to inspire future artists. In 1920, Plecnik started working on the medieval Prague Castle, a feat not to be measured, as the castle dominates the city and her surroundings. Tomas Masaryk, the president at the time was seeking someone who could renovate the facilities while keeping the historical aspects sacred and playing on the new founded power seated in the Prague Castle, power, history, and democracy blended together. Masaryk nominated Plecnik chief architect. From 1920 to 1934, Plecnik completed various projects around the famous castle. These projects included renovations of numerous gardens and monumental courtyards with design and installation of sculptures, statues and monuments (such as the Obelisk in the 3rd courtyard of the castle). He also completed numerous new interior spaces including the interesting Plecnik Hall, finished in 1930, which features three levels of abstracted Doric colonnades. It is interesting to note that Plecnik took something Medieval and made it absolutely modern all the while making it pedestrian and visitor friendly, even welcoming. In the neighborhood of Vinohrady sits one of his most outstanding pieces of work, the Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord, featuring Egyptian and early Christian architectural elements.

Prague | Vinohrady | Photo by Dolce Vita

Church of the Most Sacred Heart of our Lord

This strange train station like church was built in 1932 and is one of the most unique structures in the city of Prague. Unlike the majority of churches in Prague, this one, built in 1932, is modern in comparison to say the least. The Slovenian architect Joze Plecnik was also responsible for some innovative additions to Prague Castle. The strange brick church showcases a massive tower complete with a large transparent clock, giving it the train station look. Early Christian basilicas and Egyptian temples inspired the church. The interior is simple with a red and black color scheme. This is a ...

Architecture of Joze Plecnik | Prague Castle

The Alteration of Prague Castle

Joze Plecnik took the medieval Prague Castle, which was in need of some tender loving care, and turned it into the public friendly castle it is today. Tomas Masaryk requested the genius of his friend Joze Plecnik, and made him chief architect. Plecnik added unusual yet stately monuments to the repaved courtyards, making the area harmonious for visitors and pedestrians. The defensive walls of the castle were magically turned into the Paradise Garden, entered through the mythical Bull Staircase, a splendid place full of massive urns, climbing ivy, small pyramids, gazebos, and whimsical views. ...