Karlín, an Ancient Neighborhood With a Young Spirit

Karlin is a neighborhood located in the heart of Prague, known for its charming architecture, picturesque streets, and vibrant culture. With a rich history and a promising future, Karlin has become a hotspot for tourists and locals alike.

History

But let’s take a step back. The district of Karlín was founded in 1817 in the countryside, just outside the Old Town, and was named in honour of Caroline Charlotte Augusta of Bavaria, wife of the Austrian Emperor Francis I. In the years 1903 to 1921, it was established as an independent town and it was only in 1922 that it became officially part of the “Great Prague”.

It quickly developed into a bustling commercial center and became a hub for trade and industry in Prague. However, the district was heavily damaged during the floods of 2002, which devastated much of the city.

After the floods, the district underwent extensive reconstruction, with many buildings being restored to their former glory. Today, Karlin is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that combines historic charm with modern amenities.

Real Estate and Development

In recent years, Karlin has experienced a surge in real estate development, with many new residential and commercial properties being built in the neighborhood. This has led to a rise in property prices, as well as increased demand for housing and office space in the area.

One of the most notable development projects in Karlin is the River City Prague, a mixed-use development that includes luxury apartments, office space, and retail shops.

The project, which is being developed by CA Immo, is set to transform the waterfront area of Karlin and create a new hub for commerce and entertainment in the district.

Another major development in Karlin is the Harfa Office Park, a modern office complex that offers state-of-the-art facilities and amenities for businesses. The project, which was completed in 2016, has attracted a number of major companies to the neighborhood, including KPMG and T-Mobile.

Future

Looking ahead, the future of Karlin district looks bright. The neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage, thriving artistic scene, and prime location in the heart of Prague make it an attractive destination for tourists, investors, and residents alike.

One of the key areas of focus for future development is sustainability. The district has already made significant progress in this area, with several buildings being retrofitted to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. In addition, the district is exploring new ways to promote sustainable transportation, such as bike-sharing programs and electric car charging stations.

Karlín gastronomy scene

While visiting Karlín you cannot omit the rich gastronomy scene represented by a great number of fashionable bistros, restaurants, cafes, wine bars, etc. These places contribute to today´s Karlín unique character. Their mothership is cafe Můj šálek kávy. Among the famous bistros, you should not miss bistro Proti proudu or restaurant with Michelin award Bib Gourmand Eska. If you love wine, then stop at the wine bar Veltlín. The best tea in Prague is served right next door – at the teahouse Tea mountain.

 

Today, even the Czech industry of design and various artists have chosen Karlín as their headquarters. The “Karlín Studios”, for example, were established in an area of old factories, that were later converted into exhibition centres, at the disposal of Czech and international artists. Even the Prague Biennial was held here for a few years.