Sklenářka Homestead
Sklenářka is a historic baroque estate in the Prague Prague Prague area. This tower building from the last quarter of the 17th century is protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. They are currently used for representative purposes in the zoo.
The building was created during the period of the high Baroque, when Czech countries recovered from the consequences of the Thirty Years' War and in European architecture the influence of absolutism grew. Originally, the building was used as a vineyard press. Later, the building was adapted to the residential building, which connected the operating background with the ground floor apartment for the manager and summer apartment for the owners on the floor.
Architecturally, it is a storey tower building of a rectangular floor plan covered by a valb roof with a massive chimney. Stability is ensured by oblique restraints strengthening corners. The interior was a remarkable polychrome painting in the past. The framing ceilings bore two layers of decoration: older with green branch motif and younger, black, supplemented with branches and grapes motifs. The remains of this decoration were previously visible on the glass of the windows.
In the middle of the 20th century, the estate began to be used to accommodate zoo workers. It fulfilled this purpose until the 1980s, when the object ceased to be used and began to disintegrate. The extensive reconstruction between 1988 and 1990 ensured the rescue of the building, but during the works the original internal painting was destroyed irreparably. Further modifications took place in 2011 and 2012 in order to preserve important historical elements of the building.
Among the locals is also known as Katovna. This nickname was probably made in connection with the shooting of the film Pshevens in 1931, when a film gallows was placed in the immediate vicinity of the building.
Today, Sklenářka is located in the Prague Zoo near the natural area of Hrachovka and stands on top of the hill outside the surrounding building. As one of the few preserved historical buildings in the garden area, it represents a proof of Baroque vineyard architecture. Her visit offers the opportunity to explore the history of Prague suburb and appreciate the effort to preserve the monument in the modern environment of the zoo.
Historical milestones
- 1931
- The estate was used as a film location for the photo of Phoneys.
- 1988
- The launch of extensive reconstruction after the decaying period.
- 2011
- Opening a reconstruction aimed at preserving the original elements.
Architectural development
The building has a tower character with a valb roof and a massive chimney. The corners are reinforced with oblique restraints. The original interior was decorated by polychrome painting of beam ceilings and walls with motifs of branches and grapes.
Historical events
A major reconstruction took place between 1988 and 1990, which destroyed the original internal painting. In 2011 and 2012, further reconstruction aimed at maintaining important elements.
Points of interest
- This tower from the last quarter of the seventeenth century originally served as a vineyard press. - The interior was remarkable in the past by polychrome painting with motifs of branches and grapes on the beam ceilings. - Local residents call it Katov, which is probably related to a film gallows built by a building in the making of a movie in the year one thousand nine hundred thirty-one. - During the reconstruction of a thousand and nine hundred and eighty-eight to ninety years, there was an irreversible destruction of the original interior painting. - The building stands at the top of the hill outside the surrounding building and represents a proof of baroque vineyard architecture.
Guide
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome to the Trojan countryside. Right now, while you're listening to these words, you're facing a state that carries the incredible power of the past centuries. Look at the building right in front of you. Its tower appearance and solid, rectangular floor plan will immediately capture your view. He acts as the silent guardian of this place, as a witness to everything that's happened here since the late seventeenth century. Feel the atmosphere of peace that mingles with history here, and let the story take place in these walls. Now let's go back deep into the past to understand why this building was created. This estate, known as Sklenářka, does not have its origin in the luxury mansion of nobility, but in hard and honest work on vineyards. It originated in the last quarter of the seventeenth century and its original purpose was quite different from what you might expect today. It wasn't a residential building, it was a place where the fruit of the earth was processed - wine. This whole building was originally built as a vineyard press. Imagine the period vineyards that once covered these hills, and the constant movement of the people who spent their days here in agricultural production. Over time, however, the needs of this place have changed and the estate has been transformed into a residential home. This transition from a job to home is one of the reasons why this building is so fascinating - it is a story about the transition from agricultural tradition to human life in this particular space. Now pay attention to the architecture itself, which you are now observing. Even though time is relentlessly rushing forward, this tower building has preserved its dignity. Notice her geometry. Its rectangular shape gives the building a sense of stability and strength. It's a cultural monument, which means every corner of it is protected from oblivion. Although the object is now used for representative purposes of our zoo, its historical character remains evident. If you had the opportunity to look inside, you would have to prepare yourself for a view that was quite extraordinary in the past. Historical records tell us about beautiful paintings that decorated ceiling beams. Imagine the colors, the fine motifs of the branches and the grapes that were so carefully drawn in the interior. These details were not only an ornament, but a reflection of the original wine-growing soul of this place. Even though the world around us today is different, these memories of colorful ceilings are still resonating in the building. But the history of this place is not just about wine and architecture. It is also the history of human stories and changing fate. One of the most important times for the Glass Girl came in the year one thousand nine hundred thirty-one. At that time, this space became a part of something completely different - it became a film location. This is where the photo of the Phoneys was shot. Imagine the atmosphere where film cameras, lights and actors were brought between these historic walls to revive the ancient days. This moment combined the Glass with culture and art, which gave her a new dimension. However, the path of this building has not always been radiant. We must also look at the period when this monument began to slowly collapse and decay. It was a difficult time when it seemed that this historic jewel could perish forever. Fortunately, however, there was a break in the year of a thousand nine hundred eighty-eight, when extensive reconstruction began. People have decided to preserve this object for future generations. And that wasn't all. In the year two thousand eleven another very specific reconstruction was launched. It focused not only on building standing, but mainly on maintaining its original, most valuable elements. Thanks to this patient and meticulous work, we can stand here today and admire the state that is faithful to its history. Now, before you go on your next trip, let me tell you one mysterious thing that local people are saying about this place. Although the name Sklenářka is very inconspicuous, the people of the estate call it Katovna. Why should a place that once smelled of wine and grapes be called so scary? The answer probably lies in the movie period we talked about. It is thanks to the film footage that took place here that the darker trace has been imprinted into the reputation of this place. This contradiction between the beauty of the vineyard and the freezing name Katovna gives the Glassware its unique mystery. It is a place where beautiful memories of the agricultural tradition are encountered with darker shadows of history and film fiction. I hope this brief insight into the past has helped you better understand what you are seeing in front of you. Sklenářka is not just a building made of stone and wood, it is a living organism that has survived for centuries, changes in its use and challenging restoration. However, we now invite you to explore further. Continue your journey through the zoo, discover further corners and do not be surprised by what else you may encounter on your journey. Thank you for your attention and we will wait you out again on your next tour. Enjoy the rest of your day in beautiful Troy.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit is in the morning on working days when there are fewer visitors. The morning light beautifully depicts the historical details of the tower building and facade, which is ideal for capturing the authentic atmosphere of the estate.
The location is available by public transport and by car. We recommend using the connection search engine to plan the trip, which will offer you current transport options up to the Troja area.
Take with you quality shoes for walking on the premises and camera with lens for capturing architecture. The best pictures are taken from the path leading around the estate, where its tower silhouette stands out. The ideal lighting conditions for photography are during sunny days when the sun lights up the front of the building.
In the immediate vicinity of the estate there is a zoo, which offers a variety of possibilities for animal observation. If you prefer a quieter environment, the natural area of Hrachovka is situated in close proximity, which is suitable for walks in green.
The location is ideal for families with children thanks to a combination of historical architecture and natural environment. Children can admire the interesting look of the building, which used to serve as a vineyard press, and then continue to explore the surrounding nature or garden area.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
This is a residential or farm building, not a museum with opening hours. Please view it from public space and respect the owners' privacy. We have no information about access to the interior.
Where is the monument?
Location: Praha-Troja. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 1000152642).
Businesses nearby
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Events nearby
Zdroj akcí: otevřená data měst a obcí ČR (Národní katalog otevřených dat) a kalendář akcí Národního památkového ústavu.
Nearby
Usedlost se nachází přímo v areálu Zoo Praha v Troji, v blízkosti se rozkládá přírodní oblast Hrachovka.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
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Search tours and activities →Themed route
Thematic cruise route "Sklenářka and surrounding Prague Zoo"
1. manor Sklenářka - Type: Historical estate - Why is it worth a visit: The Sklenářka estate is a unique example of 19th century rural architecture and today serves as a cultural centre with exhibition space for artistic events. It's a place where you can enjoy a combination of history and contemporary art.
2. Zoo Praha - Type: Zoos - Why is it worth a visit: Prague Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and offers a wide range of wild fauna. It is an ideal place for families where you can enjoy interaction with different species of animals and learn more about their natural environment.
3. Natural area of Hrachovka - Type: Natural area - Why is worth a visit: This area is ideal for relaxation and short walks in nature. It offers quiet pavements between green vegetation, where you can enjoy the views of the surrounding landscape and relax the spirit.
4. Zoo Prague - Tanks - Type: Area with courtyard - Why is it worth a visit: The Zoo Prague reservoir is suitable for eating and short rest during your trip. It offers a comfortable place to enjoy lunch or a picnic with family or friends.
5. Glass exposure - Type: Exposition space - Why is it worth a visit: Glass exhibition on the property Sklenářka offers a view of various glass works and works of art. It is an ideal place for those who are interested in glass craftsmanship and modern design.
This route offers a combination of history, nature and cultural activities near Prague-Troy.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: In the spring season Sklenářka in Prague-Troi can appear in light that colors the roofs and windows with sunlight. This time of year is known for flowering nature around the monument, where the first flowers and shrubs of green colour may appear. For a visit it is advisable to choose a sunny day with mild temperatures, which allows a comfortable walk without the risk of rain or cold. We recommend wearing light clothes and maybe a hat or sunglasses to protect against the sun. Spring is an ideal time to visit, because fewer people usually gather here compared to the summer period.
Summer: The Glassware offers the best conditions for a visit when the atmosphere is full of heat and sunlight. This time of year is ideal for long walks around the historical monument, where you can enjoy not only the buildings themselves, but also the natural surroundings with flowering bushes and trees. In the main summer season, however, it is advisable to avoid the hottest time of the day when the experience can be influenced by strong sun and possible overload. We recommend visiting in the early morning or late afternoon, wearing short clothes, protective eyes and plenty of drinking milk.
Autumn: In autumn, Sklenářka offers visitors a view of the colours of summer flowers, which gradually recede to darker greenery and then pink, yellow or orange shades. This time of year is ideal for visiting thanks to mild temperatures and beautiful sunlight, which particularly illuminates historical construction. There are usually fewer people in the autumn months than in the summer, which allows for a more peaceful tour. We recommend wearing clothing with layers and perhaps a hat or umbrella because temperatures can be variable and the showers are not excluded.
Winter: Winter visit to Glassworks offers a unique view of the historical monument under the snow cover, which can highlight its architectural features. The sunlight in this period illuminates the construction in a different way than in spring time, while the length of the day is shorter and the atmosphere is calm. Winter is ideal for those looking for less busy circumstances without large crowds of tourists. We recommend that you wear warm clothes, including fur coats and shoes with good backers, to avoid sudden cold or snow. Visiting Glasses in the winter months is an opportunity to enjoy the calm and mildly romantic atmosphere that appears during this period of the year.
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.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Horakvlado / CC BY-SA 4.0 — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
Location on the map
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