Prague 5 wants to create a lasting memorial to its most famous resident: a small square near the former villa of Karel Gott is to be named after the legendary singer. The district councillors have already approved the family’s proposal and forwarded the decision to the city council.
A new “Náměstíčko Karla Gotta” (Karel Gott Square) could soon be created in Prague 5. The district councillors have supported a proposal to name a small public area at the intersection of U Mrázovky, U Blaženky and Nad Bertramkou streets after the late singer. Just a few steps away stands the 1930s villa where the “golden voice of Prague”, the 42-time “Golden Nightingale” award winner, lived for many years.
The initiative comes from his widow Ivana, who wishes to create a dignified tribute to the life and work of the exceptional artist in connection with the planned “Villa Gott” project. During his career, Karel Gott sold tens of millions of records and was a long-term resident and honorary citizen of Prague 5. The relevant committee of the Prague city council has also signalled its initial approval.
The renaming is intended to respect the historical, linguistic and local context while carrying a symbolic and respectful character. Existing street names would remain unchanged.
“We have supported this proposal and forwarded it for further discussion to the city council committee,” explained the mayor of Prague 5, Lukáš Herold (ODS). For him, Karel Gott was not only a great singer but a personality who had a lasting influence on the cultural life of the country.
Herold further emphasised: “Karel Gott is one of the most significant figures in our cultural history and was closely connected to our district for more than four decades. For me, it is only natural that we wish to preserve his memory with dignity. Naming the square near his long-time home is a sensitive and meaningful step towards that.”
In the long term, an architectural concept is also planned, to be developed together with the investors of “Villa Gott”, with the aim of upgrading the small square area and creating a suitable place of remembrance.
Karel Gott passed away on 1 October 2022 at the age of 80 as a result of a serious illness. His death was announced a day later. The public was able to say their final farewell to Karel Gott on 11 October 2022 at Žofín, where around 49,000 people gathered.
