Dvorecký Bridge: Historic Plans Become Reality in Prague

With the Dvorecký Bridge, Prague is gaining a new connection for trams, cyclists and pedestrians. However, planning for the bridge dates back to the interwar period. Archives provide insight into a project with a complex history.

The new connection across the Vltava, the Dvorecký Bridge (Dvorecký most), for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport, opens today on World Public Transport Day. The idea for the new bridge, however, goes back much further – to the interwar period. A look into the planning archives of IPR Praha shows how the project has evolved over decades.

The construction of another Vltava crossing south of the Výtoň Bridge (Výtoňský most) was already considered in the 1920s. At the time, the State Regulatory Commission for Prague and its surroundings planned the route further south, near what is now Jeremenkova Street. A connection was envisaged between the planned residential areas at Dívčí hrady and Pankrác. In addition to road traffic, the bridge was also intended to accommodate a railway line. Due to the topographical conditions, a so-called “high bridge” was required, spanning the two hills above the Vltava and partially transitioning into a tunnel.

Foto: IPR Praha

In the early 1940s, the German planning authority revisited the project and incorporated it into the so-called southern tangent, a planned expressway in the south of Prague. At this stage, the combined use for road and rail transport remained part of the plans. In 1944, the authority commissioned several variant studies comparing different constructions and materials.

After the Second World War, the route initially remained part of planning considerations and was still included in the draft spatial plan of 1953. However, in the first officially adopted urban development plan of 1964, the project disappeared – with focus instead shifting to the construction of the Barrandov Bridge (Barrandovský most).

Foto: IPR Praha

Only after the political changes did the idea of building a bridge at this location return. As part of studies on the development of the Smíchov district, the need for an additional connection was once again discussed. In this context, various variants and names emerged, including Výtoňský, Podolský or Zlíchovský Bridge.

The current route of the Dvorecký Bridge was ultimately anchored in the land use plan of 1999 – forming the basis for the current project, which is now being ceremonially opened.

Foto: Pražská integrovaná doprava

New Vltava Bridge: Dvorecký Bridge

The new Dvorecký Bridge in Prague will not only serve as a connection between Podolí and Zlíchov for transport users, but will also become a new cultural meeting point in Prague through modern art installations. Its significance goes far beyond a simple crossing: the Dvorecký Bridge will become an important element in Prague’s transport network and is intended in particular to strengthen public transport.