Přední Kopanina

Přední Kopanina is a small district of Prague, part of the administrative area of Prague 6, located about 10 km northwest of the city centre, right next to Václav Havel Airport. It's one of those corners of the Czech capital that still feels rural, even though it has officially belonged to Prague for decades.

Where is Přední Kopanina located and how big is it?

Přední Kopanina sits on the northwestern edge of Prague, close to the international airport that shares the region's name recognition with the city itself. As of 2006, the district had a population of 667 — making it one of the least populated parts of Prague, a sharp contrast to the densely built central districts most visitors associate with the city. Its coordinates place it at roughly 50.1164°N, 14.2958°E.

How old is Přední Kopanina?

The first written record of Přední Kopanina dates back to 1285, making it one of the older settlements in the wider Prague area. For nearly seven centuries it existed as an independent village, only becoming a formal municipal district of Prague in 1974. That administrative shift turned a self-contained rural community into part of a European capital, yet the change didn't erase the area's quiet, small-scale character.

What is there to see in Přední Kopanina?

The main local landmark is a Romanesque rotunda dedicated to St Mary Magdalene, built in the first half of the 12th century. Rotunda-style churches from this period are relatively uncommon in the Czech Republic, which makes this one a notable stop for anyone interested in early medieval sacred architecture. The building predates Přední Kopanina's incorporation into Prague by more than 800 years, standing as a direct link to the area's origins as an independent settlement.

Why visit Přední Kopanina?

It's a destination for travellers who want to see a side of Prague that has nothing to do with crowded historic squares. Přední Kopanina offers a glimpse of what might be called "rural Prague" — technically part of the capital, but visually and atmospherically closer to a small village on the outskirts. Its proximity to the airport also makes it a convenient option for anyone with a few spare hours before a flight, looking for something outside the usual tourist circuit.

Frequently asked questions

Is Přední Kopanina a separate village or part of Prague? It is formally part of Prague, within the Prague 6 administrative district, since 1974. Before that, it existed as an independent village.

How far is Přední Kopanina from central Prague? It is located about 10 km northwest of the city centre.

What is the main landmark in Přední Kopanina? A Romanesque rotunda of St Mary Magdalene, dating from the first half of the 12th century.

How many people live in Přední Kopanina? As of 2006, the population was 667, making it one of the less populated parts of Prague.

Is Přední Kopanina near an airport? Yes, it borders Václav Havel Airport Prague, the city's main international airport.