Ever wondered how a pile of dirt became a beloved Prague landmark? This is Milíčovský vrch. It rises unexpectedly on the edge of Jižní Město. Today we will explore its surprising story.
Milíčovský vrch is not a natural hill. It is a man-made mound. This mound consists of leftover material from constructing the Jižní Město housing estate. The material also came from building Metro C in the 1970s. Imagine tons of earth and rock being dumped here. Over time nature reclaimed it.
The hill reaches about 20 meters high. Its peak stands 309 meters above sea level. People sometimes call it ÚTÚM. This stands for Územní terénní útvar Milíčov or Umělý terénní útvar Milíčov. Both translate to Milíčov Area Terrain Formation or Artificial Terrain Formation.
In the 1990s Milíčovský vrch transformed. Landscapers planted greenery. They built paths for walkers and cyclists. Now it is a park-like area. From the top you get great views. You can see Jižní Město. You can also see the distant Central Bohemian Uplands.
Milíčovský vrch acts as a barrier. It separates the Haje housing estate from the Milíčov Forest. The hill is part of the Botič-Milíčov Nature Park. But Milíčovský vrch is not part of the Milíčov Forest and Ponds Natural Monument.
A green tourist trail passes south of Milíčovský vrch. It runs through the Milíčov Forest. This trail connects Kateřinky to Křeslice. Along the hill’s northern base runs cycle path A216. It goes from Central Park in Jižní Město to the Újezd-Křeslice road.
There is an interesting sad fact. An illegal pet cemetery once existed at the hill’s northeastern foot. People buried their deceased pets here. In 2007 the authorities closed it. This closure was because the cemetery violated veterinary regulations.
Today Milíčovský vrch offers recreation and nice views. It is hard to believe it was once just construction waste. It shows how nature and thoughtful design can transform anything. So next time you are here remember its humble beginnings. Appreciate the views. Enjoy this unique spot created from Prague’s urban growth.