Did you know that Lumbeho vila in Prague has a history stretching back to the 10th century? Right here before us stands a building that once served as a burial site. Archaeological digs uncovered graves dating back to that era. They likely belonged to the princely court of the early Middle Ages. Lumbeho vila itself wasn’t always a presidential residence. This unassuming building has witnessed centuries of change.
In the early modern period it housed an imperial pheasant farm. Other agricultural outbuildings stood nearby. These were built by Rudolf II. They were next to a neighboring farm. That farm was close to Prague Castle’s riding school. Lumbeho vila’s story continues with a significant transformation.
The building we see today is the result of an 1852 purchase. Karl Lumbe a Prague politician and physician bought it from Heliodor Heindl. He rebuilt it in the Empire style. Early in the 20th century painter Miloš Jirák lived here. He painted remarkable views of nearby Prague Castle. The surrounding land is still known as Lumbe Gardens. They belonged to the professor’s brother Karel Lumbe.
The Czechoslovak state bought the house and land in 1925. This was from Karel Lumbe’s heirs. The building served various purposes over the years. At one point it was so dilapidated that demolition was considered. It was saved though. In the 1990s President Václav Havel had it reconstructed. He used it as representative accommodation for official visits.
Lumbeho vila’s modern use began in 2004. President Václav Klaus chose it as his residence. The Czech state spent 52 million crowns on renovations. It became a representative seat for the head of state. Since then the building has been called a villa. Since 2013 Presidents Miloš Zeman and Petr Pavel have also lived here. Lumbeho vila stands as a testament to Prague’s rich history. It’s a place where past and present intertwine. It is a remarkable blend of history and modern presidential life.