The history of the Prague Metro is intertwined with the potential construction of the underground tramway. Preparation for the construction of the first underground tramway of this type began on Opletalova Street on 7th January 1966. However, after numerous discussions, based on the Decree of the Government of the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic dated 9th August 1967, it was decided to construct the Prague Metro instead of the first underground tram tunnel. Work began on the first metro tunnel from Štětkova Street to Hrdinů Square in the Pankrác district on 20th January 1969.

On 22nd December 1973, the first trial train travelled along the Kačerov – Pražského povstání section. Only a week later, on 29th December 1973, the trial train travelled along the entire line, from Kačerov station to Sokolovská station (now Florenc station). The test operation of the first metro line officially began on 2nd January 1974.

The official opening of the Prague Metro took place at Kačerov metro station on 9th May 1974 at 9:19 a.m., when the first three trains with honoured guests aboard left the station.

At 11:10 a.m. all the stations on the line were opened for passengers who had special invitations and service documents. From 10th May 1974, the Metro became accessible to everyone. The transportation of the first passengers was carried out by 12 three-carriage Soviet metro trains of the Ečs-type. This type of carriage was operated on Metro lines in Prague until 29th June 1997.

Text and photos: Boris Kogut