Wallenstein Garden, Prague

The Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) is a Baroque garden located in Prague, at the foot of Prague Castle, between the castle complex and the Vltava River. It was constructed in the first half of the 17th century as part of the Wallenstein Palace complex. Italian architects and artists, including Giovanni Pieroni, Nicola Sebregondi, and Andrea Spezza, were involved in its design. The garden covers an area of approximately 1.7 hectares, replacing earlier residential buildings, smaller gardens, and the Trčkov Palace.

History

The garden was commissioned by Duke Albrecht of Wallenstein, a close ally of Emperor Ferdinand of the Habsburg monarchy. Wallenstein actively participated in its design and development.

Design and Features

The garden consists of two geometrically arranged sections. The northern, smaller section contains a pond with goldfish, a fountain, and a greenhouse. The larger southern section features an open loggia decorated with frescoes, a small spectator stand, and another pond with a fountain.

A notable feature is the artificial stalactite wall in the southern section, designed to resemble a natural cave formation. The garden also hosts peacocks, including rare white specimens, and eagle owls. Many bronze sculptures by Adriaen de Vries are displayed along the galleries; these are reproductions, as the originals were taken to Drottningholm Palace Park in Sweden during the Thirty Years’ War.

Current Use

The Wallenstein Garden is open to the public from April to November with free admission. It is frequently used for cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, theatrical performances, wedding ceremonies, and photography sessions. The adjacent palace houses the Senate of the Czech Republic.

Access

• Nearest Metro Station: Malostranská
• Address: Valdštejnská zahrada, Letenská 118/1, 110 00 Prague-Malá Strana