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Review: Climbing the Zizkov TV Tower Crawling Babies

Read our review of climbing the Zizkov TV Tower crawling babies in Prague. Discover David Cerny's art, ticket tips, and if the views are worth the trip.

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Review: Climbing the Zizkov TV Tower Crawling Babies
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Is Climbing the Zizkov TV Tower Crawling Babies Worth It?

Is climbing the Zizkov TV Tower crawling babies worth your time in Prague? Yes, it is a must-see for fans of weird art and high-altitude views. This tower is often called the world's second ugliest building. However, the giant faceless babies make it truly iconic. If you prefer classic history, skip this and visit the Prague Castle complex guide instead.

The Eerie Charm of David Cerny’s Babies

David Cerny is the most famous modern artist in the Czech Republic. His work is often funny, dark, and very provocative. You can see his touch all over the city. This experience is a key part of any David Cerny sculptures tour in Prague. These giant babies are officially called "Miminka" in the local language.

The babies were first installed in the year 2000. They were meant to be temporary for a cultural event. However, the public loved the strange look so much they stayed. Each baby is made of fiberglass and is quite large. They look small from the ground, but they are over two meters long.

If you look closely, you will see they have no faces. Instead, their faces look like giant barcodes or slots. This design represents the loss of identity in the modern age. It makes the sculptures feel both cute and a bit scary. Most visitors find them fascinating once they see them up close.

Climbing the Zizkov TV Tower Crawling Babies Review

The experience of climbing the Zizkov TV Tower crawling babies is unique in Europe. You cannot actually climb on the babies yourself for safety reasons. Instead, you watch them "climb" the tower while you ride the elevator. There are ten babies in total scattered across the tower's pillars. They look like they are racing each other to the very top.

The tower stands 216 meters tall and dominates the skyline. It was built during the communist era and looks very industrial. The contrast between the cold metal and the soft-shaped babies is striking. It is one of the best attractions in Prague for modern art lovers. You will get the best photos from the park right below the tower.

Many people find the tower itself quite ugly. The babies give the structure a sense of playfulness and life. Without them, the tower would just be a grey needle in the sky. Seeing them is a highlight of the Zizkov neighborhood. It is a great way to see a different side of the city.

What to Expect at the Zizkov Observatory

Once you enter the tower, you take a very fast elevator. It whisks you up to the observation deck in seconds. The deck is 93 meters above the ground. From here, you get a 360-degree view of the entire city. You can see the red roofs of the Old Town and the distant hills.

The observatory is divided into three different themed pods. One pod focuses on the sounds of Prague. Another pod offers comfortable bubble chairs for relaxing. The view is especially beautiful during the sunset hours. You can see the sun dip below the spires of the city center.

There is also a restaurant and a bar inside the tower. It is called Oblaca and offers high-end dining with a view. Prices here are higher than in the local pubs below. However, the atmosphere is perfect for a special occasion. It is a great spot to rest after your art walk.

Practical Tips for Your Prague Art Tour

The tower is located in the Zizkov district, which is easy to reach. You can take the green metro line to the Jiriho z Podebrad station. From there, it is a short walk through a lovely park. You can check the Prague.eu site for current transit updates. The walk takes you through a very local part of the city.

Tickets for the observatory cost around 300 CZK for adults. There are discounts for students, children, and families. The tower is open daily from morning until late at night. If you want to see more weird art, check the Kafka rotating head statue schedule of movement for your next stop. Both sites are very popular for social media photos.

The area around the tower is famous for its many pubs. Zizkov has more bars per square mile than almost anywhere else. It is a great place to grab a cheap Czech beer after your visit. The vibe here is much more authentic than the touristy center. You will meet many locals and expats in this neighborhood.

Verdict: Is the Zizkov Tower Worth Visiting?

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The Zizkov TV Tower is a polarizing landmark. Some people hate the architecture, while others find it bold. The crawling babies definitely make it a more approachable site. It offers one of the best views in the city without the huge crowds. You can learn more about the tower's history on Wikipedia.

  • Pros: Incredible 360-degree views, unique modern art, fewer crowds than Old Town.
  • Cons: Entrance fee is a bit high, the building looks very industrial.

Verdict: It is absolutely worth it for the view and the art. It provides a great break from the medieval history of the city center.

Best for: Photographers, art fans, and travelers who want to see a local neighborhood.

Skip if: You have a fear of heights or only want to see gothic architecture.

Alternative: If you want views but hate modern towers, try the Petrin Lookout Tower instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you climb on the babies at the Zizkov TV Tower?

No, you cannot climb on the sculptures on the tower. They are located high up on the exterior pillars for display only. However, you can find similar bronze baby sculptures by David Cerny at Kampa Park. At Kampa, you are allowed to touch and climb on them for photos.

How much does it cost to go up the Zizkov TV Tower?

An adult ticket for the observatory usually costs about 300 CZK. Prices may vary slightly depending on the season or special events. Family tickets and student discounts are available at the ticket desk. It is best to check the official website for the most current pricing before you go.

Is the Zizkov TV Tower the tallest building in Prague?

Yes, the Zizkov TV Tower is the tallest structure in Prague and the entire Czech Republic. It reaches a height of 216 meters. The observation deck is located at 93 meters. This height offers an unobstructed view of the city and the surrounding Bohemian countryside.

Climbing the Zizkov TV Tower crawling babies is a highlight of any trip to Prague. The mix of brutalist architecture and surreal art is unforgettable. You get the best views in the city and a chance to explore the cool Zizkov district. Make sure to bring your camera for the unique baby sculptures. For more tips, see our guide on the best attractions in Prague.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.