Prague 1 wins another court case over Žofín Palace as lawsuit by Municipal House dismissed

rague 1 Wins Another Court Case Over Žofín Palace as Lawsuit by Municipal House Dismissed

Prague, 10 April 2025 – The long-standing legal dispute over the iconic Žofín Palace has tilted further in favour of the Prague 1 Municipal District. In the latest development, the Municipal Court rejected a lawsuit filed by Obecní dům (Municipal House), which had challenged the legitimacy of the selection process for the building’s new tenant.

The court dismissed the case in full and ordered Obecní dům to cover the legal costs associated with the proceedings. According to Prague 1 representatives, the ruling affirms the district’s position that the process was both legal and transparent.

“The municipal district welcomes the court’s decision and sees it as a confirmation of the transparency and legality of its procedure. This decision represents the fourth victory of the Prague 1 Municipal District in court cases concerning the Žofín Palace,” said Tomáš Heres, Deputy Mayor for Finance.

Obecní dům had argued that the public tender process lacked proper oversight and transparency, claiming procedural irregularities. However, the court found no evidence of misconduct or violation of public procurement rules. The ruling reinforces previous legal outcomes in favour of the district, which has been working to ensure a new operator is selected for the historically significant building.

The Žofín Palace, located on Slovanský Island in the centre of Prague, has long been a venue for cultural events, conferences, and social functions. Its future operations have attracted widespread public interest and multiple legal challenges since Prague 1 announced plans to lease it under new terms.

Prague 1 officials reiterated that the selection process was conducted according to applicable regulations and included an open call for bids. The district says it is now in the final stages of preparing the transition to a new tenant and hopes to restore full operations at Žofín in the near future.

Deputy Mayor Heres emphasized that the court’s decision should help dispel doubts about the process. “We have always acted in line with the law, and we appreciate the court’s acknowledgment of that. We can now continue with our plans to revitalize the use of the palace for cultural and civic life in the city.”

The identity of the new tenant has not yet been formally announced, pending final contractual agreements.