Bohemian National Hall

Bohemian National Hall, home to Czech Center New York, is located on East 73rd Street in what was once the heart of Manhattan’s Czech community. Czech New Yorkers funded its construction through countless individual contributions, echoing the story of Prague’s National Theatre and its famous motto, “The Nation to Itself.”

Designed by architect William C. Frohne in the Neo-Renaissance style, the building was constructed between 1895 and 1897. For decades, it served as an important social and cultural center for New York’s Czech-American community.

Over time, however, the building fell into disrepair, and most activities ceased in 1986. New York City designated Bohemian National Hall a landmark in 1994, paving the way for its eventual restoration. In 2001, the Bohemian Benevolent and Literary Association transferred the deteriorating building to the Czech Republic for one dollar. In exchange, the Czech government committed to its complete renovation.

Bohemian National Hall officially reopened on October 30, 2008, as part of the celebrations marking the 90th anniversary of the founding of Czechoslovakia. Since then, it has once again brought Czech culture to the heart of New York City.

Today, the building is home to the Consulate General of the Czech Republic in New York, Czech Center New York, the Bohemian Benevolent and Literary Association, and the Dvořák American Heritage Association. It also features a cinema, gallery, ballroom, rooftop terrace, and Czech restaurant.