Prague has many historical sites. But there is no less than one modern building deserving your attention. For example, the famous Dancing House standing on the right bank of the Vltava near Jirasek Bridge. Its original name is the Nationale-Nederlanden building. This world-famous building of Czech architecture of the late 20th century contains offices, contemporary art galleries, a panoramic restaurant and an observation terrace with a breath-taking view of the city.

The history of the Dancing House dates back to the end of the Second World War when the previous structure on this place was destroyed in the bombing of Prague. During the communist era, nothing was built here. But everything changed after the Velvet Revolution when Vaclav Havel came to power. The last President of Czechoslovakia wanted to erect a cultural and social center as the symbol of democracy and sanguine hopes. The project was made by the famous architect of Yugoslav origin, Vlado Milunic.

A bit later, the insurance company named Nationale-Nederlanden bought these lands for a modern office. Plans of Vaclav Havel seemed to have failed, but one of the leading employees of the Dutch company turned out to be a Vlado Milunic’s friend. Representatives of Nationale-Nederlanden appreciated the project and the two agreed to a compromise. Vlado Milunic and the invited Canadian modernist architect, Frank Gehry, created the Dancing House as we see it today on Rasin Embankment. The construction started in 1994 and ended two years later.

Today, the Dancing House is a significant part of Prague architecture. However, it used to cause a lot of controversies. Opponents were sure that the new building would not fit into the architectural landscape of the city. Another dispute referred to its unusual form giving the impression of leaning towers. However, the Dancing House soon established itself as an architectural gem of Prague.

The building is an example of deconstructivism in architecture. The main facade consists of two towers recalling a dancing couple. On the top, there is a dome called jellyfish. The house has nine floors and asymmetric rooms which is evident by its windows.