Where Prague feels like a village: exploring Kajetánka and its neighbors
In this episode of Prague Off the Beaten Track, we visit Kajetánka—a hidden gem in Prague 6 that once housed a monastery and vineyard. Today it’s a peaceful park with historic surroundings and hardly any tourists. If you're looking for a quiet place to wander or have a picnic, this might be your new favorite spot.
A vineyard, a monastery, and a countess: the origins of Kajetánka
When you step into Kajetánka in Prague 6, it’s hard to believe you’re still in a European capital. Nestled between the neighborhoods of Břevnov and Petřiny, this quiet green corner hides centuries of history—and offers the kind of peaceful atmosphere that makes it feel more like a village than part of a bustling city.
Kajetánka’s story begins in the 17th century, when vineyards stretched across this part of Prague and were owned by the Benedictines from Prague Castle. In 1628, Countess Marie Eusebie of the Martinic family bought the estate. Along with her husband Bernard Ignác Martinic, she helped establish a chapel and later a small monastery run by the Theatine order—known locally as the Kajetáni, from which the name Kajetánka comes. The area became a popular pilgrimage site, but during the reign of Emperor Joseph II, the monastery was closed down in 1783 as part of his religious reforms.
In the 19th century, the estate was transformed into an English-style park complete with a pond, reflecting the romantic tastes of the time. In the early 20th century, it came under the ownership of Jan Kolátor, then mayor of nearby Břevnov.
Decline and Renewal: Kajetánka in the 20th Century
Following the Communist coup in 1948, Kajetánka was nationalized and—like many similar properties—fell into neglect. It wasn’t until after the Velvet Revolution that the area began to see proper restoration. A major revitalization in 2011 brought the villa and park back to life.
Today, the restored villa is not open as a restaurant—it’s closed for revitalization—but it is available for private and corporate events. The grounds, however, are open to the public from 6 a.m. until midnight. It’s not a large park, but it has a cozy, tucked-away feel, with a small pond, winding paths, and benches tucked under the trees. On a recent visit, the only people to be seen were walking dogs or quietly passing through.
Malovanka and Petynka: quiet parks with deep roots
Directly adjacent to Kajetánka is Malovanka, an unfenced green space that blends almost seamlessly into the park. Its name comes from a nearby homestead known as Malovanka as early as the 17th century. Like Kajetánka, it once featured vineyards and farmland that formed part of the patchwork feeding historical Prague. After nationalization in 1948, Malovanka also faded into obscurity but has quietly returned to life as a relaxed, informal park.
A short stroll away is Petynka—another spot with roots in the area's agricultural past. The name comes from the German “Höttingen,” which eventually morphed into Petynka in Czech. In more recent memory, Petynka became a hub of youth culture, home to a popular student club in the 1980s that hosted concerts and cultural events. While the original buildings are gone, the name Petynka still resonates in this part of Prague.
A hidden chapel and a timeless mood
Just nearby stands the small but significant Chapel of Our Lady of Altötting—Kaple Panny Marie Altöttinské. Built in the early 18th century, it was modeled after the famous Bavarian pilgrimage chapel in Altötting, and added a spiritual layer to this already historic part of town.
Kajetánka and its surroundings may not be a grand attraction, but that’s exactly their charm. These spaces offer peace, quiet, and a surprising amount of history—all without the crowds. If you’re in the mood for something simple—a walk, a breath of fresh air, maybe even a picnic—Kajetánka could be just the spot.
- Location: Prague 6, between Břevnov and Petřiny
- Founded: 17th century as a vineyard and monastery
- Current use: Public park; villa available for events (not currently open as restaurant)
- Opening hours: Daily from 6:00 to 24:00
- Nearby sites: Malovanka Park, Petynka, Chapel of Our Lady of Altötting
- How to get there: Tram 22 or 25 to "Drinopol" or "Marjánka", then walk
