Park Michalov

Park Michalov is the largest and most significant municipal park in Přerov, Czech Republic, covering roughly 20.5 hectares between the Bečva River and the Žebračka forest, just under half a kilometre northeast of the historic town centre. It remains the city's main green space for walking, relaxing and outdoor recreation, and it ranks among the most valuable historic parks in Moravia.

Where does the park's name come from?

Until the second half of the 19th century, the site now occupied by the park was covered by floodplain forest that had already been known as Michalov since the 17th century, most likely named after the landowner of the time. As the century went on, the forest became a favourite destination for townspeople out for a walk, and in 1870 the town of Přerov purchased the land outright, setting the stage for what would eventually become a public park.

How was the park created?

The municipal park was formally established in 1904 on the initiative of a local civic beautification society, which gradually turned the former marshy woodland into a landscaped public green space. A turning point came in 1903, when Prague garden architect František Thomayer was brought in to oversee the park's redesign — one of the most respected park designers working in the Czech lands at the time. In 2024, Park Michalov marked the 120th anniversary of its founding, a milestone that reflects its long, continuous history as a public recreation ground.

What is there to see and do in Park Michalov?

The park still holds a former garden restaurant building and a pavilion once used for promenade concerts that entertained visitors on summer evenings. A refreshment stand with public toilets stands in the southern part of the park, while the western, marshier section is crossed by wooden footbridges laid over the wet ground. Paths also lead past a fountain. Along the main avenue stand two busts of figures tied to the region — writer Jiří Sumín (real name Amálie Vrbová) and Augustin Mervart, both created by sculptor Josef Baják in 1968 and 1969 respectively. Families will find three separate children's playgrounds, and there's an open grassy area suited to team ball games, as well as a dedicated dog run.

Is the park protected, and how is it maintained?

Park Michalov has been listed as a protected cultural monument since 1992. In 2000, the city council adopted an ambitious programme aimed not only at restoring the historic core of the park but also at expanding and further developing it. Between 2000 and 2007, the whole site underwent a thorough regeneration, which preserved its 19th-century character while keeping it a functional space for present-day residents.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Park Michalov? It covers about 20.5 hectares, making it the largest municipal park in Přerov.

Who designed the park's layout? Prague garden architect František Thomayer worked on the park's composition starting in 1903.

Is there anything for children? Yes — the park has three separate playgrounds plus an open meadow suited to team games.

Can I bring a dog? Yes, the park has a dedicated, fenced-off dog run.

Is the park a protected monument? Yes, Park Michalov has been protected as a cultural monument since 1992.