Kasárna Karlín wasn't just a building; it was a bustling community center. Imagine a place where kids enjoyed the playground, young professionals worked with their laptops in cafes, and sports enthusiasts played volleyball. People relaxed in the sauna, enjoyed local bars, and even watched movies under the stars at an open-air cinema. In the winter, the aroma of roasted sausages filled the air, while summer brought cozy gatherings around a table with a lager in hand. This vibrant scene thrived until recently.
From Military Base to Meeting Place:
The story of Kasárna Karlín begins in 1848 when it was built as a massive neoclassical complex to house 2,000 soldiers. However, by 2013, its military purpose had faded, and the building sat unoccupied. The Czech state attempted to sell the property several times without success.
A Community Rises:
Then, in 2017, Matěj Velek, the visionary behind another popular cultural hub Nákladové nádraží Žižkov, saw potential in Kasárna Karlín. He transformed the abandoned space into a thriving center for the community. People from all walks of life - families, artists, athletes, and social butterflies - came together. The once-silent space became a buzzing hub of creativity and connection.
An Unexpected Closure:
Sadly, this vibrant chapter came to an abrupt end in 2024. The Building Authority of Prague 8 closed down Kasárna Karlín due to a missing bureaucratic stamp, even though it had been operating sucessfully for seven years. This unexpected closure silenced the laughter and buzz that once filled the space, leaving a void in the community.
Hope for the Future:
While the current situation is disappointing, the spirit of Kasárna Karlín remains strong. The community hopes for a swift resolution that will allow this beloved hub to re-emerge and once again become a thriving center for culture and connection.
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