Prosecká vyhlídka

Ninety million years ago, a tropical sea stretched across the Bohemian basin. Imagine it teeming with life, its warm waters lapping against the shores of what would one day be Prague. Here at Prosecká vyhlídka, we stand on the edge of a unique geological formation, Prosecké skály, rocks born from the very beginnings of that ancient sea. Prosecká vyhlídka, this viewing platform, offers an incredible panorama of the city, but it also whispers secrets of Prague’s distant past. These sandstone cliffs, bleached white at their base, tell the story of a time before the sea arrived. They formed in a massive freshwater lake, the first stage of the basin’s formation. As the sea levels rose and saltwater flooded the basin, the sandstone deposits changed, becoming the yellow and rust-colored layers we see higher up the cliffs. Prosecká vyhlídka provides a breathtaking view, not just of the cityscape, but also of these geological layers. Notice the numerous holes, caves, and tunnels scarring the cliffs. These aren’t natural formations. They are evidence of extensive quarrying, likely beginning in the 18th century, when the sandstone was a valuable resource. Imagine the workers toiling away, extracting the stone that was used for everything from building materials to scrubbing floors. Below us, hidden from view, lies a network of tunnels known as Močálka, a remnant of Hampl’s sand pit. This labyrinth of corridors stretches for nearly 500 meters, a testament to the scale of the quarrying operations. While currently inaccessible to the public, Močálka serves as a vital hibernation spot for several endangered bat species. Prosecká vyhlídka, opened in 2016, offers a unique perspective on this historic site. As you take in the view from this stone and steel platform, remember the vast timescale represented here. From a prehistoric lake, to a tropical sea, to a bustling quarry, Prosecké skály and Prosecká vyhlídka reveal a captivating glimpse into Prague’s deep past.