Franciscan Garden

Located in New Town Prague, Franciscan Garden is one of the best parks in all of Prague to come and relax. Conveniently located between Jungmannovo Square and Wenceslas Square, this park is easy to get too when exploring New Town. This park has been in existence since the 14 th century when New Town was originally being constructed, although it took its present form during the 1990's when it was made to be friendlier to the public, providing benches and more trees and bushes. It is said that Franciscan Garden may be the best place within New Town for people watching as this is the ideal setting to relax and take it all in, especially during the summer months.

Also important to note is the fact that the garden is located right by the Church of Our Lady of the Snow, one of the more significant churches in all of Prague. This church has a story all its own and its name can be explained by a well known story that occurred right on the spot where the church is now built. According to legend, a roman merchant had a dream that told him to build a church upon the site where snow covered the following morning. Although it was summer, the merchant found snow upon Esquilinum hill where the church now sits. Inside the church there is a painting dedicated to this legend and this makes for a fun story to come and learn about when in New Town.

While the church is not built to the height that it was originally planned due to financial reasons, it is still quite impressive and one of the tallest structures in Prague. This is a very busy part of the city and many sightseers choose to come explore the church before heading into the gardens to enjoy a lush green oasis and get away from the frenetic pace of the bustling city. This is also a great area for children as there are swing sets and a small playground here for them to enjoy. There are a few different cafes and shops nearby and in the summer months you may want to grab some supplies and come here for a picnic as this setting is unlike any other in Prague. The public park is open from 7AM or 8AM and closes between 7PM and 10PM depending on the time of year.

Of particular note is the fact that the church was never completed and if it had been would be much larger. Still the church, park and surrounding areas are a superb place to spend a few hours just the way they are, providing nice green spaces, mature trees and well trimmed rose bushes that make for a great little getaway while still right in the heart of the city. When coming to this part of town plan your time wisely as this is a great attraction to come see at a slower pace taking everything in and this provides a nice change of pace to the busy crowded streets of Old Town.