Tram Stop Hellichova Set to Get New Name in Honor of Infant Jesus Statue!
The Hellichova tram stop situated in Prague 1 is set to receive a new name in recognition of the cultural and historical attractions in the vicinity.
Beginning on June 28, this tram stop will use two distinct names depending on the route: “Pražské Jezulátko” for trams traveling towards the city center, and “Tyršův dům” for those headed away from it.
This initiative was led by Jan Wolf (KDU-ČSL), who chairs the cultural committee of the Prague City Council. The change came after a suggestion from parishioners of the Church of Our Lady Victorious. This proposal, submitted nearly a year ago, received unanimous approval from the city’s Topographical Commission, then was subsequently authorized by the Railway Authority.
The goal of this renaming is to underscore the significance of the nearby Church of Our Lady Victorious, which houses the famous statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague, an important pilgrimage destination. Wolf emphasized that the new name, especially for trams heading towards the center of the city, will help guide the many tourists visiting the church annually.
Filip Drápal, the spokesperson for ROPID, the organization responsible for overseeing public transport in Prague, mentioned that changes to the timetable usually happen at the beginning of the summer holiday season, making the renaming coincide with this period.
The beloved Infant Jesus statue, celebrated by pilgrims, is believed to have originated in the 16th century, although some traditions hint at an even earlier date. Legend has it that the statue was created based on a vision seen by a Spanish monk. The figure is said to comprise a wooden core, which is then covered with cloth and wax.
Albert Kubišta, the chairman of the Topographical Commission, highlighted the importance of the site. “The commission welcomed this name as it signifies a notable landmark within the Lesser Town area,” he remarked. He also pointed out that the statue draws a particularly large number of visitors from Latin America, Spain, and Portugal.
