Dejvice – How Time Passed In This Prominent Quartier
The history of Dejvice dates back to 1088, when the village spreading over the slopes beneath today’s Horní Šárka was first mentioned.
Strange name of the original village
In the 11th Century, the village was called Degnice, which was later changed to Dehnice and finally to Dejvice in the 19th Century. One legend claims that the name was derived from the word dehet (tar), while another says that the basis of the name is the word dehna, which was formerly a designation for a demon or evil spirit. This version may not be entirely off the mark, as legend has it that the people living in this settlement were dangerous to wayfarers. Neighbourly relationships were not particularly good either, it is said.
The centre of the original village was spread around the present-day Proboštská Street, where the authority building used to stand. The settlement also included 4 farming estates, several cottages and a forge. There was one other settlement in the area called Újezdec, located in the area of present-day Šárka park.
Dejvice as part of the capital city
Dejvice was connected to the capital city on 1 January 1922. The new Prague quartier was developed based on a modern urban plan by architect Antonín Engel and a tram line was introduced to the area. Construction then continued northwards from Vítězné náměstí.
After the war, the International Hotel was built as a prime example of socialist realism. This artistic style was also shortened to “sorela”. It was approved in 1932 by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union as an official guideline not only for architecture, but also for literature, creative arts and music.
The metro was introduced to Dejvice in 1978. The station was originally called Leninova (Lenin Station) and the main street connecting the city to the airport bore the same name – it is now called Evropská (Europe Street).
Contemporary living in Dejvice
Dejvice is currently a luxury quartier, with areas featuring beautiful villas and the residences of foreign ambassadors. The luxurious First Republic apartment buildings are concentrated around Vítězné náměstí, while the large villa districts are spread over the hills.
The dream of perfect luxury living comes to life in the famous Hanspaulka villa quartier, where many prominent personalities have found their homes. Among them poet Jaroslav Seifert, actress Lída Baarová or painter and graphic designer Cyril Bouda. The renowned painter Jiří Anderle also lives here.
A major advantage of this highly-sought quartier is its location. It is very close to the city centre yet neighbours on beautiful green areas, namely Stromovka park and the picturesque Divoká Šárka valley.
Dejvice has a diverse offer of restaurants and charming cafes. There is also a branch of the popular luxury Italian deli Wine Food, which includes a stylish café. The Dejvice Theatre in Zelená Street offers quality cultural entertainment.
