Hidden beneath the bustling streets of Prague lies a secret. It is Motolský potok a stream with a rich history. For much of its 99 kilometer length it flows unseen. A hidden waterway under the city.
Motolský potok begins its journey near the Zličín metro station. It springs forth between a Globus hypermarket and the Siemens railway vehicle factory. Its source is nestled in the porous Cenomanian sandstones. These sandstones act like a sponge soaking up rainwater. This ensures a steady flow even in dry times.
Initially the stream flows openly for about a kilometer. Then it disappears underground. It continues its journey under Jeremiášova Street. There is even a sedimentation reservoir and a small pond alongside this section. The stream continues beneath Plzeňská Street. It eventually receives additional water from the U Hájfů natural monument. It also receives water from the Motolský crematorium.
Near the Old Brewery Hotel once a Motolský brewery the stream splits. One branch flows under Plzeňská Street. It passes Pivovarský Pond and flows openly for a short stretch. The other branch goes under Plzeňská Street. It flows openly under the Kukulova Street overpass. It then passes three ponds near the Motolská tram depot. More water joins the stream from a golf course and Cibulka stream. It also receives water from a tennis complex.
At the start of Košíře near the Cibulka woodland park the stream goes underground. It remains hidden for roughly four kilometers. It finally emerges into the Vltava River near Smíchov. It joins the Vltava between Palackého Bridge and Jiráskův Bridge.
Throughout its journey Motolský potok has seen many changes. In the past it was prone to flooding. Several floods damaged the surrounding area. The floods of 1875 1886 and 1895 were particularly damaging. The 1895 flood caused the most destruction. This led to a project to improve the stream’s management.
The project included creating a sewer system. It also involved channeling the stream underground. The stream was eventually enclosed in a concrete pipe. Parts of it were even vaulted. The improvements also considered the stream’s slope for better drainage.
The construction of this new underground channel began in July 1907. A large retention basin was built near the entrance to the pipe. This helps to manage storm water. The basin also manages water from nearby industrial and commercial areas.
The stream continues its hidden path. It flows under many streets and structures. It is a testament to Prague’s evolution. It is a fascinating reminder of how nature and city life coexist. Even in the heart of a bustling metropolis there remains this hidden wonder: Motolský potok.