The Vrtba Garden, Prague Travel Guide

Nestled on the slopes of Petřín Hill in Prague's Lesser Town (Malá Strana), the Vrtba Garden (Vrtbovská zahrada) is a captivating Baroque garden that offers a serene escape from the city's bustling streets. Often described as a hidden gem, its discreet entrance on Karmelitská Street leads to a multi-tiered garden adorned with sculptures, elegant staircases, and meticulously designed flower beds.Commissioned by Jan Josef, Count of Vrtba, in the early 18th century, the garden was designed by František Maxmilián Kaňka, who also worked on the Clementinum's Astronomical Tower. The sculptures are the work of Matyáš Bernard Braun, also known for his sculptures on the Charles Bridge, while Václav Vavřinec Reiner created the frescoes in the Sala Terrena. The garden's design reflects Italian and French Baroque influences, adapting to the steep slope of Petřín Hill within a limited space.The Vrtba Garden is laid out on three terraced levels. As you enter, you're greeted by a statue of Atlas holding a globe. The lowest level features a central fountain and the Sala Terrena, decorated with frescoes. Ascending the staircases, adorned with sculptures, you reach the upper terraces, which offer panoramic views of Prague Castle, St. Nicholas Church, and the Malá Strana.After falling into disrepair during the Communist era, the garden underwent extensive restoration and was reopened to the public in 1998. Today, the Vrtba Garden is a UNESCO-listed site and a popular venue for weddings, events, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.