On Thursday, May 16th, the Czech University of Life Sciences held its traditional Staff Sports Games, a beloved social-sporting event that brings together university staff for a day of fun and fitness. Among the various activities on campus, the non-competitive Tourist March stood out, inviting participants to explore the scenic beauty surrounding the university.
The Welcome Centre participated enthusiastically in the Tourist March, accompanied by some of our international scholars and our loyal four-legged friend, Manly, a border collie. The march covered a distance of about 10 kilometers, and we were fortunate to enjoy nearly perfect weather, enhancing the experience.
Our journey began at the ČZU campus and led us into the Nature Park Šárka - Lysolaje, a protected area established in 1990 to preserve one of Prague's most pristine natural landscapes. Spanning 10 square kilometers, the park features the deeply incised valley of the Šárecký Brook, complete with steep slopes and striking rock outcrops. Alongside its natural beauty, the park is home to numerous archaeological sites and remnants of traditional agricultural practices, such as farmsteads and mills. Since the 19th century, Šárka has been a favored destination for nature excursions.
Our first notable stop was the church of St. Matthew, a small Roman Catholic parish church built in 1771 in the Baroque style. Perched on a hill above the Šárecký valley in Prague 6-Dejvice, the church, along with its adjacent cemetery, forms a prominent feature of the lower Šárka area. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Second Prague Vicariate of the Prague Archdiocese and is dedicated to the Apostle Matthias. The church was once the focal point of the Matthias Pilgrimage, renowned for its gingerbread nativity scenes.
After a rewarding climb to the church, we took a much-needed break at a local bakery. Here, we savored coffee and homemade cake, and had the chance to meet other groups of colleagues participating in the march. This stop provided a refreshing interlude before we continued our trek.
Our journey then led us to the enigmatic ruins of Baba, situated on a hill on the left bank of the Vltava River. The origin of these ruins is shrouded in mystery. Some believe they are the remnants of a 17th-century vine press from a vineyard, while others suggest they might be the remains of a chapel or a more recent Romanesque building from the early 19th century. Regardless of their origin, the ruins offer stunning views of Prague, including a unique perspective of Prague Castle.
On our way, we admired a collection of functionalist villas, adding a touch of architectural interest to our nature walk. At night, the ruins and the access road are illuminated, making evening visits possible. Below the rock, a railway line runs along the Vltava River, adding to the scenic charm of the area. From the ruins, we were even able to spot the Prague Zoo.
After enjoying the breathtaking views and historical sites, we made our way back to the university campus via a natural trail. The entire march was a delightful blend of physical activity, natural beauty, and historical exploration, providing a perfect opportunity for participants to enjoy each other's company in a relaxed and pleasant environment.
The Tourist March was undoubtedly a highlight of the Staff Sports Games at the Czech University of Life Sciences. It offered participants a chance to bond, enjoy nature, and learn more about the historical and natural landmarks around Prague. We hope that all who joined us on this journey found it as enriching and enjoyable as we did, and we look forward to more similar events in the future.
Author: Alena Gentile