Štvanice

Have you ever strolled along the Vltava River, with its reflections dancing in the sunlight, and wondered what secrets lie hidden in the heart of Prague? Right in front of you, just beyond the Hlávka Bridge is a place that has witnessed countless stories and transformations: the island of Štvanice. This isn’t just any island, it’s a place that’s been a magnet for Czechs for generations, hosting a colourful medley of activities, some that have even been outlawed. In the 17th century, this island was a site for dog hunts. Imagine: bears, bulls, deer, and even cows! All hunted by dogs! That’s where the name Štvanice comes from, which translates to “hunt” or “chase”. The island has transitioned from roaring dog hunts to a haven for sports and recreation. The grand Štvanice Stadium, built in 1931, was the iconic ice skating centre of Prague. Even though it was demolished in 2011, echoes of its past remain in the form of its four Ice Hockey World Championships, in 1933, 1938, 1947, and 1959. It was on this very island in 1947 that the Czechoslovak men’s national ice hockey team won the world championship for the first time! Today, Štvanice has embraced a more modern sporting character. This island has become a playground for tennis lovers with its modern arena, the annual host of the ATP and WTA Prague Open tournaments. And if you are a skateboarding enthusiast, then you’re in for a treat. Štvanice boasts the only place in Prague that offers year-round skateboarding, with its roofed skatepark and an indoor skate bowl. It’s a place both for professionals and those who just want to learn to do a kick flip or two. Štvanice, this small island in the Vltava, has witnessed the changing seasons and trends of Prague, transforming over the years from a spot for dog hunts to a hub for some of the city’s most beloved sporting activities. As you walk along the Vltava, keep your eyes peeled for this unique and fascinating island. It’s a place that seamlessly blends history and present-day fun, whispering tales of the past and exhilarating you with the thrill of modern-day sport.