Havlíčkovy sady, which everybody in Prague simply calls Grébovka, is a hillside park in the Vinohrady district. It combines an Italian-style villa, terraces, a grotto and a working vineyard, and it is one of the most romantic parks in the city – and one that most visitors never reach.
History
The historical vineyard “Grébovka” is what remains of the extensive vineyards founded by Charles IV in the 14th century, which at that time covered the whole of today’s Havlíčkovy sady. The name of the neighbourhood, Vinohrady, means “vineyards” for the same reason.
The park itself was created in the 1870s and 1880s by the industrialist Moritz Gröbe, who built his Neo-Renaissance summer residence, the Gröbe Villa, on the slope and laid out the gardens around it. The local name Grébovka comes from him. The city later bought the estate and opened it to the public.
Nowadays we find ourselves enjoying a distinctive blend of a city park and the memorable remnant of the former vineyards.
What to See
- The Gröbe Villa and its terrace with a fountain, overlooking the valley.
- The vineyard and the wooden Vineyard Gazebo, where you can sit with a glass of local wine among the vines.
- The Grotta – an artificial rock cave with stairways, arches and a fountain.
- The Pavilion in the lower part of the park, now a café.
How to Get There
The park lies between Vinohrady and Vršovice. Take the tram to Jana Masaryka or Krymská and walk a few minutes, or walk about fifteen minutes from Náměstí Míru metro station. Entrance to the park is free; for opening times of the park and the wine bar, check the official website.
Photographing Grébovka
The slope faces south, so the vineyard gets sun for most of the day. Late afternoon and the hour before sunset are best: the light comes low across the vines and the gazebo, and the view opens over the rooftops of Vršovice and Nusle.
- The villa terrace and the balustrades work very well for couple and engagement portraits.
- The Grotta gives a dramatic, shaded background on bright days.
- Spring brings blossom, summer the green vines, and early autumn the grape harvest and the best colours.
- On sunny weekends and during the wine harvest celebrations the park is full. Weekday mornings are quiet.
Planning more stops in the city? Browse more Prague guides for other places worth visiting and photographing.
