“Time stopped here” is what they say about Malešické náměstí. This square offers a glimpse into Prague’s village past. It is a unique place. Malešické náměstí is the only square in Malešice. Malešice is mostly part of Prague 10.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine medieval roads crossing right where we stand. Malešické náměstí was originally a village green. It served as a crossroads.
In the middle of Malešické náměstí stands a late Baroque chapel. It was built in 1755. The chapel is dedicated to St Wenceslas. He is the patron saint of the Czech lands. Notice the belfry. It is missing its bell. Spanish tiles cover the chapel and tower.
The first mention of Malešice village dates back to 1309. A part of it belonged to vicar Vojslav. He left it to the church of St Vitus in Prague Castle. Over the centuries, the owners changed. War often disrupted the village. Armies camped here. They prepared to attack Prague. Soldiers took supplies from the peasants. They also cut down fruit trees for fire. The Thirty Years’ War was especially hard.
Malešice joined Prague in 1922. It has since developed dynamically. New houses have been built. Traffic is good. The Želivského metro station is close. Despite this progress, Malešické náměstí retains its old village charm.
Look around. You will see the entrances to old farm buildings. These are numbers 1, 107, and 108. Once, Malešice was a peaceful, rural area. It belonged to Charles University in the 18th century. This is recalled by the street name Na Univerzitním statku. It leads past former farm buildings.
Today, Malešické náměstí is marked by traffic. There are plans to improve it. Discussions have been ongoing since 2014. The future depends on decisions about the city ring road.
At the south end of the square is the Malešice Chateau. Jakub Canavalle built the original Baroque building. This was between 1686 and 1689. It has been modified since then. Sadly, it is currently in poor condition.
Malešické náměstí is a stop on the St Joseph educational trail. Yellow and blue tourist routes also pass through. Take a moment to appreciate the history. Notice how Malešické náměstí connects us to the past. It reminds us of a time when Prague was surrounded by villages. These villages were full of farms and fields.