Rohožník

Rohožník is a small but geologically remarkable nature reserve on the eastern edge of Prague, in the Dubeč district, within the boundaries of the Říčanka landscape park. Covering 3.45 hectares and protected since 1988, the site is made up of two separate parts: the main Rohožník ridge and a smaller former quarry at the edge of Dubčí.

Where does the name come from?

The hill was originally called Rohozný vrch, a name derived from the reeds (rákosí) that once grew abundantly in the wetlands surrounding its base. Over time the name was shortened to today's Rohožník.

What can visitors see there?

Rising to 279 metres above sea level, Rohožník forms a clear landmark above the right bank of the Říčanský stream. The ridge runs in a northwest direction and consists mainly of Ordovician Skalec quartzites. Geology is in fact the main reason for the site's protection: within the reserve you can see an exposed unconformity between Ordovician rock (Skalec quartzites) and much younger Cretaceous deposits (Perucké layers). Such a direct contact between rocks separated by tens of millions of years is unusual and draws geologists as well as nature students to the site.

A history of stone quarrying

During the 19th and 20th centuries, stone was intensively quarried on what is now protected land. Traces of this work are still visible today in the form of two separate abandoned quarries — one on the Rohožník ridge itself, the other a smaller pit on the outskirts of Dubčí. Once quarrying stopped, vegetation gradually reclaimed the area, and the exposed rock faces became a natural open-air lesson in regional geology.

Wildlife in the reserve

Beyond its geological value, the area also serves as a refuge for amphibians. Within the Říčanka landscape park, which includes Rohožník, several species have been recorded, among them the common frog, the edible frog, the common toad, the green toad and the fire-bellied toad. Damp hollows and the flooded floors of the old quarries provide suitable habitats for them.

Getting there and what to know

Rohožník lies on Prague's eastern outskirts, between the settlements of Dubeček and Dubčí, and forms one of the stops along an educational trail connecting Dubeč with Uhříněves. The reserve functions primarily as an excursion site, popular with school geology trips and with nature lovers looking for a quiet, little-visited corner of the capital.

Frequently asked questions

What is Rohožník? It is a protected nature monument in Prague, safeguarding a geological outcrop and former quarries on a 279-metre hill.

Why is the site protected? Because of the visible unconformity between older Ordovician rock and younger Cretaceous deposits — a valuable record of the region's geological history.

Does wildlife live at Rohožník? Yes, the site is home to several amphibian species, including frogs and toads that rely on the damp habitats around the old quarries.

Since when has the area been protected? The site has held nature-protection status since 1988.