Count Silva-Tarouca designed the park's landscape specifically to utilize the Botič stream's flood-prone valley for decorative water features.
The park contains the Alpine garden (Alpinum), which was specifically engineered to house high-altitude flora at a lower elevation.
It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1992 as part of the Průhonice Park and Chateau complex.
The park serves as a primary research center for the Czech Academy of Sciences to study temperate zone dendrology.
Many of the park's rhododendron varieties were hybridized on-site specifically to withstand the local Central European climate.
Průhonice Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site covering 250 hectares, featuring an extensive collection of over 1,600 species of trees and plants. The landscape incorporates the Botič stream, which feeds a series of interconnected ponds and dams designed in the late 19th century. The estate centers around a Renaissance-style chateau that historically served as the residence of Count Ernst Emanuel Silva-Tarouca. The grounds represent a synthesis of natural forest and carefully planned arboretum sections. Visitors can navigate over 40 kilometers of gravel walking paths that traverse varied elevations. The park maintains one of the largest rhododendron collections in Europe, with over 8,000 specimens. It serves as a living laboratory for the Institute of Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences. The layout utilizes the local topography to create distinct vistas and garden rooms.
The bridge overlooking the lower lake with the reflection of the Průhonice Chateau in the background.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the extensive path network involves significant incline changes.
Bring a water bottle as the large grounds have limited food service points outside the main entrance area.
Check the official website for the peak rhododendron bloom timing, usually occurring in late spring.
Attempting to cover the entire 250-hectare area in a single visit; focus on the trails surrounding the chateau.
Open year-round, though some pathways may close during extreme winter weather or heavy rain.
Cyclists are restricted to designated paths only; dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
