Lost in the heart of Prague a sprawling green embrace awaits. This is Lesopark Hodkovičky a forested area with a name that might take some practice. Lesopark Hodkovičky offers a blend of history nature and recreation.
Since the 13th century this land has seen many changes. Initially owned by the Vyšehrad Chapter the lands including a manor and fortress. By the 15th century the forests of Lesopark Hodkovičky fell into the hands of Prague’s New Town. They used it to support local hospitals and churches.
In 1844 these forests which were mostly pine belonged to a Krč estate. Later in the 19th century the Hodkovičky estate and its forests became private property. Now Lesopark Hodkovičky is owned by the city of Prague. Lesy hl m Prahy maintains it carefully.
Old trees remain as echoes of the past. You can spot them in the gardens of villas overlooking the Zátišský stream. Also note the rows of old oak trees along V Lučinách street.
As you wander through Lesopark Hodkovičky notice the dominant trees. You will see the winter oak and Scots pine. These trees mainly come from plantings done between 1900 and 1920. Forest renewal efforts are underway. The goal is to restore the forest to its original mix of trees. This includes oak hornbeam and beech. To enhance the recreational feel some evergreens like Douglas fir larch and pine are also planted.
Lesopark Hodkovičky acts as a green haven. It is nestled among the Novodvorská Lhotka and Modřany residential areas. The Zátišský stream valley is particularly scenic. This stream begins in Novodvorská. Along its three-kilometer path are three water features. These are U Vodotoku pond the Hodkovičky retention reservoir and the Zátišský pond.
In 2007 the U Vodotoku pond was dredged. It was revitalized creating a significant natural site in Prague. Many water birds nest in the pond’s reed beds. A network of paths and the A211 cycle trail crisscross the area of Lesopark Hodkovičky.
The area of Lesopark Hodkovičky spans three cadastral areas of Prague. These are Hodkovičky Kamýk and Lhotka. Within the park you’ll find many amenities. There is the educational trail “City from a Bird’s Eye View”. You can also discover gazebos rest areas playgrounds petanque courts outdoor gyms and even a ping-pong table.
Lesopark Hodkovičky demonstrates a commitment to sustainable forestry. Prague earned the Forest Stewardship Council FSC certification in 2007. The Lesopark Hodkovičky management uses forest-friendly technologies.
A sad example of human impact can be seen along Československého exilu street. There the trees are drying out due to altered water conditions. In managing the Lesopark Hodkovičky the owner seeks to mirror the original forest composition. They are also balancing this with recreation by keeping a diverse array of tree species.
As you leave Lesopark Hodkovičky remember its layered history. This is a space where recreation and ecological awareness come together. Take a moment to reflect on how this green space enriches our lives.