Lítožnice

Lítožnice is a small nature reserve tucked into the eastern edge of Prague, between the districts of Běchovice and Dubeč. Here the Czech capital briefly gives way to wetlands, fishponds and old orchards — a fragment of countryside that once surrounded a settlement long since vanished.

Where the name comes from

The reserve's name is not accidental. It comes from a medieval village that stood on this spot between the 13th and 16th centuries. The first written record of Lítožnice dates back to around 1351. At that time the site held not only a village but also a fortified manor house and a church dedicated to St. Gotthard. Over the following centuries the settlement disappeared, and the land gradually turned into the mosaic of ponds, meadows and woodland visible today.

Three ponds along a stream valley

At the heart of the reserve lies a chain of three ponds in its north-western section: Nový, Myslivecký and V Mýtě. All three sit along the Říčanský stream, which cuts through a valley with slopes partly covered in forest. Wet meadows and extensive reed beds surround the ponds, forming one of the more significant wetland habitats within Prague's city limits.

The protected area covers just under 28 hectares, at elevations between 230 and 260 metres above sea level. The eastern part is covered by oak-hornbeam forest, mixed with non-native species such as spruce and red oak. Remnants of old cherry and pear orchards survive alongside shrubby thickets, adding variety to the landscape and providing shelter for wildlife.

Protected since 1988

Lítožnice was granted protected status on 1 September 1988. The goal of protection is to preserve the pond system, the adjoining meadows, and the valley slopes of the Říčanský stream, together with the vegetation and fauna they support. The area is an important bird nesting site, and its ponds and reed beds host a wide range of invertebrates and amphibians.

The ponds also serve a practical purpose: they are used for extensive fish farming, and two of them, Nový and Myslivecký, are open to sport fishing. Anglers, rather than tourists, are the reserve's most frequent visitors — Lítožnice remains a relatively little-known corner of Prague's natural landscape.

Who is it for?

Lítožnice suits anyone looking for quiet close to a big city — a walk among the ponds, birdwatching, or simply a break from the pace of central Prague. It is also a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts, since traces of the medieval settlement remind visitors that this peaceful landscape has a far older story than it first appears to tell.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Lítožnice located? The reserve lies in eastern Prague, between the districts of Běchovice and Dubeč, in the valley of the Říčanský stream.

How many ponds are there in the reserve? Three — Nový, Myslivecký and V Mýtě, all located in the north-western part of the area.

Since when has the area been protected? Lítožnice received protected status on 1 September 1988.

Where does the name Lítožnice come from? From a medieval village that existed on the site between the 13th and 16th centuries, first documented around 1351.

Can you go fishing there? Yes, the Nový and Myslivecký ponds are used for sport fishing, and the whole pond system also supports extensive fish farming.