Saturday, July 3, 2010

Hlubočepy


Sandwiched between the industrialism of Smíchov and the paneláky(high rise communist style apartment buildings) of Barrandov Sídliště is an unexpected jewel - the village of Hlubočepy. I wanted to find out where tram 12 went this morning and stubbled upon this gem of a town.

Hlubočepy has its own specific and charming character. It is nestled under some rugged cliffs, popular with climbers, this compact village is the best-kept secret of Prague 5. One would not ever imagine that a traditional Czech village could remain here with its own identity intact, resisting everything modern in that it refuses to be swallowed up by the city.

The reason for its being frozen in time is the protected National Park of Prokopské Údolí which is all around it. This is an area of trees, forests greenery and paths, perfect for walking and cycling. Easy to get to if one wishes to escape the city and only just a few km away. Taking Tram 12 or 20 will get you there in short order.

The picture is of a popular restaurant there call the Forklore Garden.

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