Turbová

Did the name Turbová ever cross your path before today? Probably not. Here we stand before Turbová, a place etched in Prague’s history, yet often overlooked. Turbová began as a baroque vineyard estate in the latter half of the 18th century. Located in Košíře, near the intersection of Jinonická and Vrchlického streets, Turbová has seen its share of transformations. Originally part of Smíchov, its address changed with shifting boundaries. Declared a cultural monument in 1958, Turbová sadly sits in a state of disrepair. The estate owes its name to František Xaver Turba, who purchased and rebuilt the original structure. He shaped it into the baroque estate we see remnants of today, adding a garden pavilion adorned with a statue of Venus. Later, in the 19th century, one building was reborn as a neo-baroque villa. The adjacent vineyard, Kuliška, became a part of the Turbová grounds. The early 20th century brought Smíchov’s mayor, Josef Linhart, to Turbová. He demolished the original structure and erected the current neo-baroque villa with its distinctive tower and mansard roof. During the First Republic, the Šafařík family made Turbová their home, adding a touch of elegance. This elegance faded under the communist regime. The last owner, Marta Šafaříková, faced persecution. She was relegated to the garden house, while new tenants occupied the main villa. Forced to sell in 1976, Turbová became neglected. Intended as a kindergarten, the planned reconstruction never happened. The estate was handed over to the Socialist Youth Union, while the outbuildings housed tent production. After the Velvet Revolution, Turbová was briefly returned to a descendant of the original owners. It was quickly sold again, with plans for a cultural center and a Spanish trade mission. Repairs began, but a new owner died, and the plans dissolved. Turbová fell into disrepair, becoming a haven for squatters. Sold again in 2008, grand plans for a luxury wellness and restaurant center were proposed. The ambitious project, including new apartments and a cable car, amounted to nothing. In 2021, Turbová changed hands once more. The current owners envision two apartment buildings on the site. Despite security measures, the historical estate remains in a desolate state. Yet, even in its decay, Turbová whispers stories of a vibrant past. Remember the name Turbová. It’s a testament to Prague’s rich and layered history, waiting to be rediscovered.