OCCUPIED: Czech prisons will open to the public

On Sunday, November 15, and Wednesday, November 25, 2026, all prisons in the Czech Republic will be open to the public.

The Czech Prison Service is preparing the first-ever nationwide event of this scale, which will offer people a unique opportunity to glimpse into the environment of prisons, learn about their daily operations, and become acquainted with the demanding work of their employees. Each prison will welcome visitors on both dates. What does the environment look like in which convicts serve their sentences? Where do they work, study, and spend their free time? Where are individuals under investigation placed? And what does the work of the members and civilian employees of the Czech Prison Service entail? Answers to these questions will be provided through tours that will take place on two dates in November across the country. The aim of the event is to bring the public closer to the true nature of Czech imprisonment, to showcase the demanding and responsible work of the members and civilian employees, and to allow people to form their own idea of an environment they typically do not have the chance to experience up close. The Czech Prison Service also wants to contribute to a better understanding of its mission and demonstrate the full range of activities it provides. The nature of the tours will vary in individual prisons according to their character and capabilities. Visitors may glimpse, for example, into accommodation areas, cultural and educational rooms, the workplaces of convicts, or areas designated for visits. The tour routes may also include demonstrations of the vehicle fleet, security equipment, or employee facilities. The Czech Prison Service ensures not only the safety and execution of detention, punishment, and security detention but also education, employment, and professional treatment of convicts. An important part of its activities is preparing imprisoned individuals for their return to society. Thus, the tours will offer the opportunity to understand imprisonment in broader contexts and to get acquainted with various professions that contribute to its functioning. How to register for the tour Those interested in visiting will need to register in advance via a web form. The number of spots will be limited by the capacity of the individual tours. Entry will only be allowed for individuals who meet the specified conditions and pass prior security verification. The tours are intended for individuals over 18 years old. Individuals with a criminal history and family members of imprisoned persons who use regular visits to prisons cannot participate. Every visitor must expect standard security checks upon entry. It will not be possible to bring mobile phones, cameras, smartwatches, or other unauthorized electronic or recording devices into the prisons. Prisons will not provide luggage storage. Detailed information about registration, available times, capacity, and specific programs will be published by the Czech Prison Service through its official communication channels during this week. The first-ever event, during which all prisons in the Czech Republic will open to the public on both specified dates, represents an opportunity for a direct encounter between the public and Czech imprisonment. Interested parties will be able to experience the environment of prisons, better understand their operations, and get acquainted with the work of the people who ensure safety every day and contribute to fulfilling the mission of the Czech Prison Service.