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Czechia
Wallenstein Garden
Wallenstein Garden, situated in the Lesser Town of Prague, forms an integral part of the rich historical tapestry of the city. The garden was established between 1623 and 1629, designed in the early Baroque style by the Italian architect Andrea Spezza. It was commissioned by the ambitious Albrecht von Wallenstein, a Bohemian military general and politician who desired a residence that would outshine Prague Castle itself.
The garden spans over 1.7 hectares, serving as the grounds to the Wallenstein Palace, which is now the home of the Czech Senate. The expansive area is filled with meticulously maintained lawns, adorned with antique statues, fountains, and artificial grottoes. The large sala pavilion, known as the Sala Terrena, forms the heart of the garden. It is an ornate structure with rich frescoes, and it features a magnificent view of the garden and the Prague Castle.
Notable for its geometrically arranged flower beds, the garden is also home to a variety of exotic plants and a large koi pond. The aviary, another striking feature, was designed to house peacocks. The garden's walls are adorned with a unique dripstone wall, a stunning piece of stonework that resembles a stalactite cave.
The Wallenstein Garden has a distinctly Italian vibe, with its combination of geometrically laid out parterres, broderie beds, and ornamental ponds. The layout is symmetrical, a common trait in Baroque gardens, characterized by straight lines, balanced proportions, and an emphasis on perspective.
In terms of interior, the palace's main hall, known as the Knight's Hall, is an architectural marvel. It displays an intricate ceiling adorned with a series of frescoes depicting scenes from the Trojan War. The hall also features a collection of antique maps and the Wallenstein family’s coat of arms.
The Wallenstein Garden is not just a place of historical significance but also a venue for cultural events. It hosts summer concerts and theatrical performances, providing a fusion of history, culture, and natural beauty. It remains an alluring attraction for tourists and locals alike, offering an escape into a bygone era amidst the bustling city of Prague.