Palmovka: History, Innovation, and New Opportunities for Prague

Palmovka, one of Prague’s most neglected areas, will undergo a significant renovation that will make it into a vibrant urban center. The area, located in the Libeň district, has been abandoned for years, with deteriorating structures and outdated infrastructure. The intervention will allow for the redevelopment of the area through the construction of high-quality housing, shops, and public spaces.

In the past, the area was a vineyard. From the mid-17th century, it became the property of Matěj Vojtěch Miler of Mildenburk, city councilor and lord of the New Town. After his death, the estate became the property of his heirs, including Miler’s daughter, Voršila, who married Daniel Palma. The area is thus named after the Palma family, who lived there for over fifty years.
Around the mid-19th century, Palmovka was transformed into an industrial zone with the establishment of a distillery and a soap and candle factory. In 1889, Vojtěch Švarc became the new owner and sold the land as building plots, leading to the construction of most of the current apartment buildings.

The renovation of Palmovka was initiated by the City of Prague and the development company Akva, which recently purchased land from the Prague Transport Company (DPP). The project includes the demolition of the Palmovka bus station, an area in decline that occupies a space equal to two football fields. Stores, apartments and essential services will be built in its place.
The project not only envisions the construction of apartments and shops but also the development of an elementary school and a cultural center. This confirms the goal of creating a family-friendly neighborhood.
Palmovka will thus be able to revitalize the entire district through its housing opportunities and new commercial and cultural spaces.

The transformation of the area also includes the construction of a square dedicated to Bohumil Hrabal, one of the most famous Czech writers. Thanks to entertainment opportunities, the square will become an important gathering and recreational spot for residents. With its cafes, shops, and green areas, Bohumil Hrabal Square promises to be a true symbol of urban renewal.
The works will also include the restoration of the surrounding areas, with particular attention to the historic Libeň synagogue. This operation will integrate the area’s historical past with modern infrastructure.

Palmovka is highly frequented, with approximately 60,000 people passing through daily. The area is strategically located, with connections that include numerous public transport options, including the metro line. The renovation will enhance the transport system by creating new routes that will fully leverage Palmovka’s proximity to areas like Rohanský ostrov and Invalidovna. This will make access easier and the area more attractive to students and workers in the capital.

Sustainability is a central point of the area’s renewal project. The work is based on sustainable urban development principles and aims to create a neighborhood rich in green spaces. New parks and pedestrian areas are planned, offering a pleasant environment for visitors and residents.

This initiative will not only revolutionize Prague by improving its urban appearance but will also have a significant impact on the local economy. The project will create numerous jobs, both during the renovation and afterward, thanks to the opening of new services and commercial spaces.
The redevelopment also includes the construction of the new headquarters of the European Union Space Programme Agency (EUSPA), which will be housed in the “Nová Palmovka Center” building. This will bring further prestige to the area and increase job opportunities.

The rebirth of Palmovka thus represents a major development opportunity for the city of Prague. With new commercial spaces, squares, apartments, and green areas, the project will become a successful example of urban regeneration, attracting residents, workers, and tourists from all over the world.

Sources: https://praguemorning.cz/; https://zdopravy.cz; https://pdspraha.eu