Journal of the Charles University Law Faculty
Ondřej Preuss
Author’s affiliation:
Faculty of Law, Charles University in Prague
Do we need a new seat of parliament?
Jurisprudence 3/2026 Section: Articles Page: 19-28
Keywords: Parliament, architecture, seat of parliament
Abstract: The article deals with the current seat of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, especially its Chamber of Deputies, and analyzes the relationship between the architecture of parliamentary buildings and the functioning of democratic institutions. The author examines the historical context of the Czech Parliament's location in the intricate network of palaces in the Lesser Town, compares it with examples from other countries, and explores how architectural design can influence public trust, transparency, and the legitimacy of power. He recalls repeated attempts to build a new seat of parliament, particularly in Prague's Letná district, and points to the symbolic significance of architecture in relation to national identity. In conclusion, the author once again asks whether it is more appropriate to build a new monumental parliament building or to focus on developing democratic values within the existing seat.
