Vrtba Garden, Prague

A discreet entrance on bustling Karmelitská Street leads to a captivating retreat boasting stunning views of Malá Strana. The unassuming door opens to the cozy courtyard of Vrtba Palace, flanked by two Renaissance wings. The left wing dates back to 1575, while the right one was erected in 1591. Originally owned by a Bohemian noble later executed by the Habsburgs, the latter wing was acquired by Count Sezima of Vrtba, who transformed it into a late-Renaissance palace by merging it with the adjacent property.

A century later, the enchanting Vrtba Garden was born, ascending in five tiers behind the courtyard. Featuring statues and formal terraces, it culminates in a pavilion embellished with seashell motifs at the summit—a sought-after venue for weddings, receptions, and occasional concerts. Notably, the garden's upper section is adjacent to the U.S. Embassy's property, often marked by the sight of the American flag.

The courtyard entrance is marked by the imposing stone figure of Atlas, crafted by Mathias Braun, a prominent figure among Czech baroque sculptors, whose workshop produced many of the mythological statues adorning the palace grounds.