Petrin, Prague

The Carpathian Church of St. Michael Archangel is located towards the base of Petrin Hill, close to the Hunger Wall, and is probably one of the least touristed attractions in this part of Prague (what a bonus!).

It is a wonderful structure that was built in the 18th century in Medvedovce (then part of the First Czechoslovak Republic and is now in the Ukraine) and relocated to Prague in 1929. It is currently used as the parish church of a Romanian Orthodox community and was unfortunately locked when we visited.

The church is made entirely of wood, from the roof shingles to the nails which hold it together, and the workmanship is superb. Like many orthodox churches, it is surprisingly small, and positively tiny by comparison with the hulking proportions of many of Prague's other churches. Although it isn't far from the edge of the park, the surrounding woodland is an effective shield from the outside world, and with a smidgeon of imagination, you could fancy yourself in the Carpathian forest!

Building of Mirror Labyrinth was constructed in 1891 for former Prague Exhibition Grounds. Building looks like a fairy tale house or small castle. It is just nearby Petrin (“Eifel”) tower.

There are mirrors inside that distort view, so place, I believe, could be interesting for children. 30 year’s War is depicted just before going to mirror room. The scene shows Czechs’ struggle against Swedish in 1648 on Charles Bridge.

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St. Michael Ukrainian Church located in Petrin hill. This object maybe is not so popular among other Prague sights but for me it was must see. Firstly, I have accidently found it in VirtualTourist and decided it could be some exotic to see in Prague.

Church was moved here in 1929 from Ukraine, Medvedovce village. It is wooden, folk art, baroque style.

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Kinsky summer palace was built in 1827 – 1831, neo-classicism style. Palace houses historical folklore artifacts.

Around is possible to see natural Kinsky gardens, having some rare plants, in 1930’s it is remodeled into English style. Gardens are separated from other Petrin’s gardens by Gothic Hunger Wall. There were vineyards in middle ages.

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A very romantic place to go in Prague is to the top of Petřín, the hill just southwest of the Little Quarter. At the top, there is a lovely garden, commanding views in all directions, and even a replica of the Eiffel tower to climb and get even better views if you wish. How romantic is it, you ask? Well, any Prague husband who wants to remain married will take his wife here every May 1st.

just down karmlitska street from the communism statue is ujezd square and the funicular station. the funicular was originally built in 1891 to take people to the 1891 jubilee exhibition. it was closed between 1965 and 1985 due to a partial collapse of petrin hill. today the funicular has modern cars and station. you can also walk up petrin hill and it's beautiful park but it is quite a hike.

built in 1930 the observatory is located near the observation tower. at night you can use their telescopes for views of the moon and far away galaxies. during the day there is an exhibition of old astronomical instuments on display at the observatory.

the funicular makes two stops on it's way up petrin hill. the first stop is at nebozizek about half way up the hill and the second stop is at the observation tower on the top of the hill. the nebozizek stop offers a great view of downtown prague and has a hotel and restaurant. see my restaurant tips for more info.