The Main Railway Station in Prague, also known as Praha hlavní nádraží, is renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture, particularly evident in the original part of the station, known as the Fanta Building. This section of the station was designed by Czech architect Josef Fanta and constructed between 1901 and 1909, showcasing the elegance and ornamental style characteristic of the Art Nouveau movement.

Key Art Nouveau Features of the Main Railway Station:

Fanta Building:
- The Fanta Building, named after its architect, is the most notable Art Nouveau element of the station. It features a beautifully ornate façade with intricate decorative details, which include floral motifs, sculptural elements, and sweeping curves typical of the Art Nouveau style.
- Inside the Fanta Building, the grand hall is adorned with stained glass windows, floral designs, and wrought ironwork. The ceiling features a large dome that floods the space with natural light, enhancing the grandeur of the interior.
Stained Glass and Decorative Elements:
- The station’s Art Nouveau aesthetic is further exemplified by the stained glass windows that depict various allegorical figures, enhancing the artistic atmosphere of the space.
- Other decorative elements include elaborate plasterwork, mosaics, and metalwork. The use of natural motifs, such as flowers and plants, is a hallmark of Art Nouveau, reflecting a connection to nature.
Sculptures and Reliefs:
- The Fanta Building’s exterior and interior are decorated with sculptures and reliefs that depict allegorical and mythological themes, common in Art Nouveau architecture. These artworks contribute to the station’s overall aesthetic and historic ambiance.
- The sculptures on the façade include figures that symbolize the power and dynamism of modern transportation, fitting themes for a railway station during the early 20th century.
Dome and Interior Spaces:
- The central hall of the Fanta Building is topped with a grand dome, creating a spacious and airy atmosphere. This dome is not only functional but also decorative, adding to the elegance of the building’s design.
- The interior spaces are designed to be both functional for travelers and aesthetically pleasing, with attention to detail in every element, from the flooring to the lighting fixtures.
Restoration and Preservation:
- In recent years, efforts have been made to restore and preserve the Art Nouveau features of the station. These restorations have focused on maintaining the original aesthetics of the Fanta Building while updating facilities to meet modern standards.
- The restoration work has included cleaning and repairing the decorative elements, ensuring that visitors can continue to appreciate the station’s historical and artistic value.

Importance of the Art Nouveau Style:

Art Nouveau, popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, sought to break away from traditional architectural forms and embrace more organic, flowing lines and intricate decorations. In Prague, this style is visible in several buildings, and the Main Railway Station’s Fanta Building is one of the finest examples.

The Art Nouveau features of Praha hlavní nádraží not only make it a functional transportation hub but also an architectural landmark that reflects Prague’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. For travelers and visitors, the station offers a glimpse into the elegance and innovation of early 20th-century design.