Kampa Island: The picturesque “Venice of Prague” in the Lesser Town

Nestled between the Vltava River and the artificial Čertovka (Devil’s Stream) canal lies Kampa Island. It is considered one of Prague’s most romantic spots. But behind the idyllic facade lie dramatic flood stories, world-famous modern art, and even a touch of Hollywood glamour.

History and the “Devil’s Stream”

Although it appears to be a natural part of the city, Kampa is an artificial island, created as early as the 12th century by the construction of the Čertovka Canal It originated to power watermills. After the great Prague fire of 1541, the area was filled with rubble to create a more stable foundation for the present-day Baroque buildings. The name “Teufelsbach” (Devil’s Stream) comes from the fact that the water used to smell so strongly of sewage that people said it smelled “like hell.”

Art & Sculptures: From Mills to Giant Babies

The cultural heart of the island is the Kampa MuseumHoused in the former Sova Mills (once a steam bakery), it now contains one of the most important collections of modern art from the former Eastern Bloc. Right in front of it, you’ll find the famous Giant babies by the artist David Černý. The bronze sculptures with barcodes instead of faces are the siblings of those babies who run up the Prague TV tower in Žižkov.

Palaces and famous villas

Kampa is home to magnificent residences. In the Baroque period… Liechtenstein Palace State guests regularly stay overnight right on the shore – even Queen Elizabeth II has stayed here. Another highlight is the Werich Villa, once the home of actor Jan Werich and now a popular cultural center. Tip: The one there IF Café is famous for its excellent traditional Czech sweets.

Kampa as a film location: Mission: Impossible

Did you know? Kampa Island and the adjacent Charles Bridge were prominent filming locations for the first part of… Mission: Impossible with Tom Cruise. The staircase leading directly from the island up to the Charles Bridge is featured in one of the key scenes of the action classic.

Nature and Resistance: Floods & Lennon Wall

Proximity to water also brings dangers. John Lennon Pub Flood markers show the water level of the devastating flood of 2002 – the water reached an incredible 8 meters high. Just a short detour away lies the John Lennon Wall. Since the 1980s, it has been a symbol of peace, freedom and resistance against the communist regime, and to this day it is redesigned daily by artists from all over the world.

Conclusion: Whether you are looking for modern art, want to walk in the footsteps of Tom Cruise or simply want to enjoy the peace and quiet at the Devil’s Stream – Kampa Island is an absolute must on any visit to Prague.