Prague’s Old Town Market: A New Life as a Digital Art Gallery

It used to be a lively place filled with market vendors, fresh food, and the energy of daily life. Today, after years of change, disrepair, and attempts to restore it, the Old Town Market in Prague is coming back to life – but this time as a gallery focused on the future. Its hidden treasures – especially the vaults and columns that were covered up – are now being revealed. And a new chapter begins on October 1st.

When architect Jindřich Fialka finished building the neo-Renaissance market hall in 1896, he likely didn’t imagine it would one day become a showcase for digital art.

“The reopening of the long-closed Old Town Market as a new cultural space is marvelous news for the people of Prague,” says Adam Zábranský,a Prague council member responsible for property,transparency,and legislation. Petr Hlaváček – Deputy Mayor of Prague for territorial development and zoning – shares his excitement.

“I think using the gallery temporarily is a grate idea. It will bring valuable spaces in the heart of the city back to life while we prepare for the full renovation,” he adds.

The market has a rich history and a complex past.It was once a symbol of modern innovation, powered by its own electricity plant, lighting, and cooling systems designed by František Křižík. But it started to decline after 80 years. Its stunning vaults were hidden behind plasterboard ceilings, and the lively marketplace was replaced by a supermarket.

Its original beauty was lost under layers of plasterboard, glass wool, and supermarket shelves. The entrance on October 28th wasn’t even owned by the city, and by 2020, the market was completely closed.

Talk then turned to rebuilding the market and restoring its historical appearance. But, like many projects, progress was slow. Competitions were canceled, costs went up, and the market remained empty. Until now. Its story is being rewritten – this time using light, data, and artificial intelligence.

A Showcase for Digital Art

The Signal Festival is creating its first permanent gallery of digital and immersive art, called Signal Space. A 2,500 square meter space is being transformed into a unique cultural experience that combines light, sound, movement, and technology.

Signal Space will be a place where contemporary art isn’t just displayed – it interacts with visitors.