Franciscan Gardens

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The garden connects two major city squares, acting as a shortcut through a dense urban block.

2. 2

   The adjacent Church of Our Lady of the Snows, which shares the garden's border, was originally intended to be the largest church in Prague, though only the chancel was finished.

3. 3

   The garden is maintained primarily as a space for public relaxation rather than formal manicured landscape displays.

4. 4

   It is one of the few remaining examples of a historical convent garden preserved within the city center.

Overview

Franciscan Gardens is a hidden medieval-style courtyard tucked behind the Church of Our Lady of the Snows in the heart of Prague. Originally established in the 14th century, the site served as a herb garden for the Franciscan monastery. It features a rose garden, a central fountain, and a children's playground. The space acts as an urban sanctuary, offering a quiet pedestrian passage between Wenceslas Square and Jungmann Square. It is surrounded by historic buildings and high stone walls, isolating it from the city's heavy traffic. The garden layout reflects a modern reconstruction while maintaining the traditional monastic garden footprint.

Insider tips

• Use the garden as a quiet pedestrian shortcut to avoid the crowds on Wenceslas Square.

• Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Snows entrance located directly within the garden perimeter.

• Bring a book, as the park is one of the most effective sound-dampened spaces in the city center.