On Wednesday, May 6, the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Prague welcomed members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of Czech politics and cultural life, and friends of Poland to a festive afternoon reception held from 3 p.m. in the garden of the Polish Embassy in Prague’s Lesser Town district. The event was hosted by the current Chargé d’Affaires of the Republic of Poland in Prague, Barbara Tuge-Erecińska.

The reception took place at the historic Fürstenberg Palace, the long-standing seat of the Embassy of Poland in Prague, located in Valdštejnská Street near Prague Castle. The palace is among the most historically significant diplomatic buildings in the Czech capital. Its origins date back to the Renaissance period, while later centuries brought extensive Baroque modifications and expansions. In the nineteenth century, the building became associated with the noble Fürstenberg family, from which it derives its present name. Since 1919, the palace has served as the seat of the Polish diplomatic mission in Prague. Particularly impressive are its monumental Baroque staircase, richly decorated stucco interiors, and the spacious embassy garden overlooking Prague Castle.

The reception commemorated Poland’s National Day of May 3, celebrating the historic Constitution of May 3, 1791. The Polish Constitution is regarded as one of Europe’s first modern constitutions and the second-oldest written constitution in the world after that of the United States. It sought to reform and modernize the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth by strengthening state institutions, introducing the separation of powers, and establishing modern civic principles. Although Poland disappeared from the map of Europe only a few years later as a result of the partitions of Poland, the Constitution of May 3 has remained a lasting symbol of Polish freedom, sovereignty, and democratic aspirations.

The highlight of the afternoon was the speech delivered by Czech President Petr Pavel. In his address, President Pavel praised the close relationship between Poland and the Czech Republic and emphasized the importance of cooperation between Central European nations within both the European Union and NATO. Referring to the current geopolitical situation, he stressed that Poland and the Czech Republic are not merely neighboring countries but close allies sharing common historical experiences and strategic interests.

The guests listened to the speech in the elegant atmosphere of the embassy garden, where diplomats, politicians, business representatives, and figures from cultural life engaged in numerous conversations throughout the afternoon. As with many prestigious diplomatic events in Prague, the reception combined formal elegance with a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Musical accompaniment was provided by a live band whose varied repertoire added significantly to the festive character of the event. Surrounded by the historic architecture of the palace and the carefully maintained gardens, guests enjoyed an atmosphere characteristic of Prague’s diplomatic season.

Following the official part of the reception, the Embassy invited guests to enjoy traditional Polish specialties and refreshments. Typical dishes of Polish cuisine were served and warmly appreciated by the attendees, further underlining the cultural dimension of the celebration. Many guests continued their conversations in an informal setting while enjoying Polish hospitality.

The reception once again demonstrated the strong and stable relationship between Poland and the Czech Republic. Both countries cooperate closely in numerous areas ranging from economic and infrastructure projects to European security and regional cooperation. Particularly in times of international uncertainty, the partnership between the nations of Central and Eastern Europe continues to gain strategic importance.

With this traditional National Day reception, the Embassy of Poland in Prague once again highlighted the long-standing friendship between Poland and the Czech Republic while reaffirming Prague’s important role as a center of diplomatic and cultural exchange in Central Europe.

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