Modernisation of Prague’s Hradčanská metro station begins: closure from mid-January
The modernised station is scheduled to reopen at the end of 2027
Photo: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy
New escalators, upgraded technical systems and restored artworks: Prague’s Hradčanská metro station is undergoing comprehensive modernisation. Passengers therefore face a prolonged closure next year.
Prague Public Transport Company (DPP) has begun preparatory work for the complete modernisation of Hradčanská metro station. This is expected to continue until around mid-January 2027 while the station remains operational. The subsequent main works will require the complete closure of the station, including the entrance hall and pedestrian underpass.
The closure is scheduled to begin on Saturday, 16 January 2027. Line A trains will then pass through the station at reduced speed without stopping. DPP expects the station to reopen towards the end of 2027.
Photo: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy
New escalators and comprehensive technical upgrades
During the preparatory phase, cladding on pillars, passageways, ceilings and walls behind the tracks will gradually be removed at platform level. Redundant cables will also be removed, and temporary power lines installed for the main construction phase. The work will take place in cordoned-off areas and during the overnight suspension of services.
Following the closure, the station will first be completely stripped out. The three existing escalators and their machinery room will then be removed. Old reinforced concrete support structures, maintenance stairways along the sides and an intermediate ceiling in the escalator tunnel will also need to be removed and replaced.
Other priorities include stopping water ingress, repairing the station’s structure and renewing the drainage system. Cable routes, all service lines and ventilation equipment will also be replaced. The project also includes refurbishment of the transformer substation.
Photo: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy
Original architecture to be preserved
Key elements of the original design are to be preserved during the modernisation. DPP will have the anodised aluminium wall panels refurbished wherever possible. Stone cladding and flooring on the platform and in the entrance hall will be cleaned and extensively refurbished. Damaged sections are to be replaced with new elements matching their colour and texture.
The existing suspended lighting will be replaced by energy-efficient LED lights integrated into the cladding and ceilings or between the aluminium panels.
Four retail units in the pedestrian underpass will be completely dismantled. The wall with artistic reliefs concealed behind them will then be repaired and professionally restored. The toilets will also be completely refurbished. In addition, the station will receive a new passenger information system.
Photo: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy
First complete refurbishment since opening
Hradčanská opened in 1978 and has never undergone a complete refurbishment. The last major partial refurbishment, including the replacement of the escalators, took place in 1996.
No fundamental changes to the layout are planned. The aim is to modernise the station’s technical systems, prepare it for future step-free access and carefully restore its original architectural features.
Following the refurbishments of Českomoravská, Pankrác and Jiřího z Poděbrad stations, as well as the ongoing work at Flora, it is now Hradčanská’s turn. The cost amounts to around CZK 1.13 billion excluding VAT.
