Did you know that Vokovice was once a village? Before it became part of Prague in 1922 Vokovice had a rich history. Imagine a time long ago when Vokovice was a small settlement. A few farmsteads clustered near a manor house. This manor was owned by the St Vitus Chapter. By the early 15th century two manors existed. One belonged to Václav Koláček and Jan Proudka from Brloh. The other was owned by the Prague Archbishopric.
Vokovice has a fascinating past. The village survived the Hussite Wars relatively unscathed. Only one farmstead was recorded as deserted after the conflict. By the early 18th century Vokovice was part of the Chrášťany estate. A 1713 tax assessment counted 13 farmsteads. The Josefian Cadastre later listed eighteen properties. A small chapel was built around 1800. This served the community until it was fully restored in 2006. It still stands today a quiet testament to Vokovice’s enduring spirit.
Land records from the early 19th century name many local farmers and residents. These include Tomas Raus a wealthy farmer. There was Jiři Spirit a cottage dweller. Several others worked land owned by the community. The area’s rich history includes mining. Geological surveys in the 1820s discovered iron ore. Mines were active before 1860 some closing early others lasting into the mid-20th century. Brickworks also contributed to the local economy. Agriculture declined as industry grew.
The construction of the tram depot Vozovna Vokovice significantly shaped Vokovice. It opened in 1933. The tram line extended to Divoká Šárka in 1947. The construction of the Evropská street in 1967 changed transportation significantly. Before its creation Kladenská street was the main thoroughfare. Later the construction of the Červený Vrch housing estate was a major development. The street names in this area reflect its history. Southern streets were named after African countries. Northern streets were named after countries in the Middle East. The area also boasts two modern elementary schools and a gymnasium.
Šárka Valley a protected area is an important part of Vokovice. It features the Džbán pond a swimming pool and a nearby camp. It’s a place of natural beauty. The Šárka Valley and the surrounding area are part of the Šárka-Lysolaje nature park. Trails attract hikers and nature lovers. Franci’s well also adds historical charm along the Šárka Valley trail. It’s a peaceful retreat for those wanting an escape from city life. Today Vokovice thrives. It blends its rich past with the modern conveniences of a thriving neighborhood. It remains a unique and wonderful part of Prague.