Kaizlovy sady

Kaizlovy sady is a small, intimate park in Prague's Karlín district that, despite covering under two hectares, still carries the atmosphere of the late 19th century when it was first laid out. It sits west of the Invalidovna building, bounded by the streets U Invalidovny, Sokolovská and Hybešova, forming a green pocket in what has long been a working-class neighborhood.

Where does the park's name come from?

The park was established in 1906 and named after Josef Kaizl, an economist, lawyer and politician who served for many years as a member of the Imperial Council (Reichsrat) and, from 1898 to 1899, as Finance Minister of Austria-Hungary. During the socialist era, between 1952 and 1991, the park was renamed Hakenovy sady in honor of politician Josef Haken. Its original name, Kaizlovy sady, was restored in 1991 after the change of regime.

What can visitors see inside the park?

The park's character comes through in the replicas of historic Prague street lamps and benches, styled after the original fittings from when it was founded over a century ago. At its center lies a small pond overlooked by a bronze statue of a seated nude girl titled "Vzpomínka" ("Memory"). This figure is one of the park's most recognizable features and a favorite spot for a quick photo during a walk.

How did the 2010 renovation change the park?

In 2010, Kaizlovy sady underwent a thorough renovation. New walking paths were laid out, a children's playground with a variety of equipment was built, sports facilities were added, and the pond — which had fallen into disrepair — was restored. As a result, the park now works equally well for families with children and for adult residents of Karlín looking for a quiet break.

Is there anything for adults in the park?

Yes — alongside the children's playground, the park has a pétanque court that is popular with older residents of the area. It's one of the few facilities of its kind in this part of Prague, which makes the park a well-used spot for informal social gatherings.

How do you get to Kaizlovy sady?

The park sits in the heart of Karlín, close to the distinctive Invalidovna building — a former home for war veterans that is one of the district's landmarks. With a metro line B station and several tram stops nearby, the park is only a short ride from the center of Prague.

Frequently asked questions

When was Kaizlovy sady founded? The park was established in 1906.

Where does the park's name come from? It is named after Josef Kaizl, an economist and politician who served as Finance Minister of Austria-Hungary from 1898 to 1899.

Has the park always had this name? No — between 1952 and 1991 it was known as Hakenovy sady, after politician Josef Haken. The original name was restored in 1991.

What features does the park have? Replicas of historic Prague street lamps and benches, a pond with the bronze statue "Vzpomínka," a children's playground and a pétanque court.

Was the park recently renovated? Yes, it underwent a major renovation in 2010 that added new paths, a playground, sports facilities and a restored pond.

How big is the park? It covers a small area of under two hectares.