Libeň

Have you ever heard of the Libeň Peace Treaty? It was right here, in this very chateau, that Emperor Rudolf II and his brother Matthias of Habsburg came together in 1608 to settle a family dispute and divide their power. The chateau, known as Libeňský zámek, is a majestic Rococo building that was rebuilt in the late 1700s after being damaged during the Prussian invasion. The beautiful Empress Maria Theresa herself contributed to the repairs and even visited the castle. The Libeňský zámek has a fascinating history that stretches back further than its grand facade. It stood as a Gothic castle as early as 1363, and it was here that Leopold II’s coronation procession started in 1790. Today, the chateau houses one of the most popular wedding halls in Prague. Though the interiors aren’t completely preserved, many newlyweds and visitors come to marvel at the paintings by Czech artist Ignac Raab. The Libeňský zámek was not only a setting for important historical events but also a residence for some remarkable people. Bohumil Hrabal, a renowned Czech writer, lived here in the 1950s and wrote about his life in Libeň in his short story “My Libeň.” Hrabal depicted Libeň as a place of quiet beauty, where he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. His memory still lives on in Libeň, with a mural dedicated to the writer near the Palmovka metro station and a plaque on the site of one of his former homes. Libeňský zámek itself has an interesting history of its own, spanning over six centuries, making it a truly captivating location. This chateau is a testament to Prague’s rich historical heritage and a reminder of the pivotal roles played by the people who called it home.