Šabachův park Park
Šabachův Park is a modern urban oasis located in Prague 6-Dejvice, named after writer and city councilor Petr Šabach. Officially inaugurated on September 16, 2018, to commemorate the first anniversary of Šabach's death, this small yet significant green space offers serene views of the Vltava River. The park is notable for its unique fountain featuring life-sized bronze horse sculptures, a tribute to Prague’s historical urban life where horses were once integral.
The origin and development of Šabachův Park are rooted in late 2000s urban modernization efforts in Prague. During this period, the city integrated green spaces within its urban environment while honoring local cultural figures. The park's creation reflects a broader trend seen across European cities to blend nature with urban living. Initially unnamed, it became known as "U koní" (At the Horses) by the public for ten years following its opening in 2008.
Architecturally, Šabachův Park is distinguished by its modern design and artistic elements. The centerpiece of the park is a six-tiered water cascade designed by Michal Gabriel, featuring fountains at both ends and surrounded by rows of trees. This cascading feature includes life-sized bronze horse sculptures that stand approximately 145 cm tall in their rearing positions, symbolizing the historical presence of horses in city life. The installation of these sculptures occurred in spring 2008, adding a dynamic visual element to the park.
The park is bordered by residential buildings and features a prominent neo-Gothic ten-story structure on Wuchterlova Street, designed by architect Jiří Stibral between 1925 and 1927. Beneath the park lies a two-level underground parking garage for Prague 6's municipal offices, reflecting its integration into the city’s infrastructure.
Key events in the park's history include a public art competition held in 2006 that led to Michal Gabriel's winning design for the water cascade feature. This competition was part of efforts to enhance the area with artistic and functional elements. The park received recognition when it won the Jury Prize at the Stavba roku (Building of the Year) competition in its 16th year, highlighting its architectural significance.
Today, Šabachův Park remains a cherished green space within Prague's urban landscape. Its accessibility and serene environment make it an attractive destination for both locals and visitors. The combination of modern design, historical homage through art, and integration with the city’s infrastructure underscores its value as a cultural and recreational site. Visitors are encouraged to explore this unique blend of nature and history in the heart of Prague.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 2006
- Public art competition held for park design.
- 2008
- Park opened and named 'U koní' (At the Horses).
- 2008
- Installation of bronze horse sculptures in spring.
- 2018
- Official inauguration on September 16, commemorating Petr Šabach's death anniversary.
- 2018
- Park renamed to Šabachův Park.
Architectural development
Šabachův park was developed with a focus on modern urban aesthetics. The centerpiece is a six-tiered water cascade designed by Michal Gabriel, featuring life-sized bronze horse sculptures and two wooden walkways crossing the water. The area beneath the park houses underground parking garages for Prague 6's municipal offices.
Historical events
The park was officially named after Petr Šabach on September 16, 2018, to commemorate the first anniversary of his death.
A public art competition in 2006 led to Michal Gabriel's winning design for a water cascade feature.
Points of interest
- Despite being named after Petr Šabach only in 2018, the park was initially known as "U koní" for a decade, reflecting its central feature of bronze horse sculptures rather than its namesake.
- The park's modern design includes a six-tiered water cascade by Michal Gabriel, which won a public art competition in 2006, demonstrating how community involvement played a significant role in the park’s artistic elements.
- Beneath Šabachův Park lies a two-level underground parking garage for Prague 6’s municipal offices, showcasing the integration of modern infrastructure with urban green spaces.
- The park's architectural context includes a prominent neo-Gothic ten-story building on Wuchterlova Street by architect Jiří Stibral, highlighting its blend of historical and contemporary design elements in the surrounding area.
- In 2014, Šabachův Park won the Jury Prize at the Stavba roku competition's 16th year, emphasizing its recognition as an exemplary piece of urban architecture within Prague.
Guide
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Welcome to Šabachův park, a modern urban sanctuary nestled in the heart of Prague. As you stand here, take a moment to appreciate the serene views stretching across the Vltava River. The gentle sound of water cascading down a six-tiered fountain catches your ear, drawing your gaze to its centerpiece: life-sized bronze horse sculptures that seem almost alive under the sunlight.
Šabachův park's journey began in 2006 when a public art competition was held to design this unique space. By 2008, the park opened its gates and was initially named 'U koní' or 'At the Horses,' a nod to these majestic sculptures that now stand as its defining feature. However, it wasn't until September 16, 2018, that the park officially became Šabachův park in honor of Petr Šabach, a writer and city councilor whose contributions greatly enriched Prague's cultural tapestry.
The architect behind this enchanting landscape is Michal Gabriel, whose vision brought to life not only the captivating water cascade but also an environment that seamlessly blends nature with art. As you wander through the park, let your eyes roam over the carefully sculpted greenery and pathways that guide you through a journey of discovery and tranquility.
Petr Šabach's legacy is deeply interwoven into the fabric of this park. His dedication to Prague's cultural heritage has left an indelible mark on the city, with this park serving as a living tribute. It’s fascinating to consider how, for a decade, the park was known simply by its feature—the horses—before being named after Šabach himself.
A curious aspect of Šabachův park is its name change in 2018, which marked not only an official inauguration but also commemorated the first anniversary of Petr Šabach's passing. This renaming highlights a broader narrative about how spaces evolve and are redefined by those they honor.
As you continue to explore, let yourself be enveloped by the park’s atmosphere—a perfect blend of history, art, and nature. From the playful dance of water in the fountain to the quiet rustle of leaves, every element invites contemplation and appreciation.
We invite you to delve deeper into this enchanting space, to discover its hidden corners and stories yet untold. Šabachův park is more than just a location; it's an experience waiting to unfold at your own pace. Thank you for joining us on this journey through time and creativity. Enjoy the rest of your visit in Prague, where history and modernity dance together under the open sky.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit Šabachův park is during the late spring or early fall when the weather is mild, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll through its greenery and enjoying the serene views of the Vltava River. During these seasons, the park's natural beauty is at its peak with vibrant foliage and blooming flowers, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors. Additionally, visiting during weekdays can offer a more tranquil experience compared to weekends when it might be busier.
Public transportation is recommended as the most convenient option. Visitors can access the area using various modes of public transport, such as buses and trams that serve nearby streets.
When visiting Šabachův park, it is recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan on exploring its paths extensively. A light jacket might be useful as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Additionally, bringing water and snacks can enhance your visit, allowing for a more relaxed experience without needing to leave the park frequently.
Photography enthusiasts will find several spots in Šabachův park ideal for capturing stunning images. The best lighting is typically during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight creates soft shadows and highlights the textures of the park's features, including the unique fountain with life-sized bronze horse sculptures. These sculptures can serve as an excellent focal point in your photographs.
For those interested in exploring nearby attractions within a 30-minute walk from Šabachův park, consider visiting the prominent neo-Gothic ten-story building on Wuchterlova Street. This architectural gem offers a glimpse into Prague's rich history and provides an interesting contrast to the modern urban oasis of the park itself.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
Parks and gardens are often open to the public, but some have opening hours or are part of a closed site. We have not verified the entry conditions.
What are the opening hours and admission?
We have not verified the opening hours or admission. Current information is published by the operator.
Where is the monument?
Location: Praha, Hlavní město Praha. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
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Events nearby
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Nearby
Šabachův park is bordered by residential buildings and features a prominent neo-Gothic ten-story building on Wuchterlova Street, designed by architect Jiří Stibral.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
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Thematic Walking Tour: Šabachův Park and Its Surroundings
1. Šabachův Park - Type: Urban Park - Why Visit: Begin your journey at the heart of this charming urban oasis, Šabachův Park. Surrounded by residential buildings, it offers a peaceful retreat in the bustling cityscape of Prague. The park is perfect for leisurely strolls or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility amidst nature.
2. Neo-Gothic Ten-Story Building on Wuchterlova Street - Type: Architectural Landmark - Why Visit: A short walk from Šabachův Park, this striking neo-Gothic building designed by architect Jiří Stibral is a testament to Prague's rich architectural heritage. Its unique design and historical significance make it an intriguing stop for architecture enthusiasts.
3. Wuchterlova Street - Type: Urban Street - Why Visit: Explore Wuchterlova Street, which connects the park with its surrounding residential areas. The street offers a glimpse into local life and provides opportunities to observe the blend of modern living with historical architecture that characterizes this part of Prague.
4. Residential Buildings Surrounding Šabachův Park - Type: Residential Area - Why Visit: Conclude your tour by wandering through the residential buildings around Šabachův Park. These structures provide a sense of community and showcase typical urban living in Prague, offering insights into the daily lives of its residents.
This thematic walking tour offers a blend of nature, architecture, and local culture, all within a compact area that highlights the unique character of this part of Prague.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: The arrival of spring at Šabachův Park brings a vibrant transformation as the park bursts into life with blooming flowers and fresh greenery, creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. The soft sunlight filters through budding trees, casting dappled shadows on pathways that invite visitors to explore nature's renewal. During this season, it is advisable to dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal times to visit when the park is less crowded, allowing for a more tranquil experience amidst the awakening flora.
Summer: Summer at Šabachův Park offers long days filled with warm sunshine and lush landscapes that make it an idyllic spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. The park's green spaces provide a refreshing escape from the city heat, while its vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by the lively sounds of nature. Visitors should be prepared for larger crowds, especially during weekends and holidays, so arriving early in the morning can help avoid peak times. Comfortable footwear and light clothing are recommended to stay cool while enjoying the park's summertime charm.
Autumn: Autumn at Šabachův Park is characterized by a stunning display of warm colors as leaves turn shades of red, orange, and gold. The crisp air and gentle breezes create an inviting atmosphere for visitors who appreciate nature's seasonal beauty. This period offers a quieter experience compared to summer, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the park's picturesque scenery. Layered clothing is advisable due to cooler temperatures, and visiting during weekdays can provide a more peaceful setting amidst the autumnal splendor.
Winter: Winter transforms Šabachův Park into a serene landscape with its snow-covered grounds and bare trees that offer a stark yet beautiful contrast against the city skyline. The park's atmosphere becomes quiet and introspective, perfect for those seeking solace in nature during the colder months. Visitors should dress warmly in coats, hats, and gloves to comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. As daylight hours are shorter, planning your visit around midday can ensure you make the most of the limited sunlight while experiencing the park's tranquil winter charm.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
View from the area
This animation was generated by artificial intelligence from a real photograph of the surroundings. The motion and details are not real footage of the location.
Atmosphere of the place
This atmospheric visualisation of the place and period was generated by artificial intelligence. It is not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Xyzabec / CC BY-SA 4.0, rozlišení zvýšeno umělou inteligencí — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Location on the map
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