A beloved piece of Prague’s entertainment history is making a comeback. The legendary Cyklon roller coaster, which thrilled visitors at Prague’s Exhibition Grounds for over four decades, is returning to Matějská Fair after a seven-year absence.
The steel roller coaster, which operated from 1975 to 2018, holds a special place in Czech history as the country’s only permanent steel roller coaster. Standing 13 meters tall and stretching 440 meters in length, with speeds reaching up to 46 kilometers per hour, it was a major attraction not just during the fair but year-round until the city terminated the operator’s contract.
This year’s Matějská Fair, running from February 22 to April 21 at the Holešovice Exhibition Grounds, will feature the renovated Cyklon in a new location behind the Dutch section. Children from age 6 can ride when accompanied by an adult.
While the return has generated excitement among Prague residents, with many describing it as a nostalgic symbol of their childhood, the installation will be temporary. Exhibition Grounds spokesperson Linda Antony confirmed that there are no plans for permanent placement, as the location is needed for open-air events throughout the year.
Last year’s fair introduced modern attractions including a Ferris wheel with heated enclosed cabins and Europe’s tallest Airborne ride at 65 meters. Ride prices typically ranged from 60 to 200 crowns.