Želivského, Prague
What Želivského is
Located in Prague 3 in the city’s eastern sector, Želivského is both a neighborhood and a major station on Metro Line A. Named after Jan Želivský, a prominent Hussite priest and 15th-century religious reformer, the area connects visitors with landmarks including Olšany Cemeteries and the Žižkov Television Tower, as well as the districts of Žižkov and Vinohrady (Wikipedia: Jan Želivský; Wikipedia: History of Prague; Prague Public Transport; Visit Praha: Jewish Cemeteries; View from Prague; Timeout Prague).
History
Jan Želivský (1380–1422) was a charismatic Hussite priest known for his sermons and leadership during the First Defenestration of Prague, which sparked the Hussite Wars. His legacy as a symbol of reform and justice is commemorated in the area’s name and monuments (Wikipedia: Jan Želivský).
Želivského was originally a rural landscape of fields and vineyards. Prague’s urban expansion brought it into the city in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Development accelerated during the interwar era, and Communist rule brought new housing and infrastructure. The metro station opened in 1980 as part of this modernization. The area also hosted public demonstrations during the Prague Spring and Velvet Revolution (Wikipedia: History of Prague; Prague Guide: Velvet Revolution).
The University Hospital Královské Vinohrady, established in 1902, is nearby. The neighborhood combines historical architecture with modern facilities (Prague Tourist Information).
What to see
Olšany Cemeteries
Established in 1680, Olšany Cemeteries (Olšanské hřbitovy) are Prague’s largest burial ground, covering more than 50 hectares. The grounds include Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and military sections. The Jewish section contains memorials commemorating Prague’s Jewish history and Holocaust victims (Visit Praha: Jewish Cemeteries).
Žižkov Television Tower
Completed in 1992, the 216-meter Žižkov Television Tower is a landmark of Prague’s skyline. Initially criticized, it is now known for its distinctive design and David Černý’s “Babies” sculptures. The tower has panoramic observation decks with 360-degree city views, a restaurant, and a unique hotel suite (View from Prague).
Neighborhoods and other nearby sights
Žižkov and Vinohrady are known for their artistic communities, theaters, cafés, and nightlife (Timeout Prague). The New Jewish Cemetery, a short distance away, is the final resting place of Franz Kafka and other notable figures; it is open daily (Besides the Obvious).
Mahlerovy Sady, Parukářka Park, Jiřího z Poděbrad Square, and Riegrovy Sady are within walking distance and offer green spaces, markets, and community events.
Practical visiting information
Želivského Metro Station
The station opened in 1980 on Line A and operates daily from approximately 5:00 AM to midnight. It is a major interchange with several tram and bus lines. The station has elevators, ramps, and tactile paving; low-floor trams and buses also serve Želivského.
Tickets are available from vending machines, newsstands, or Prague’s official mobile apps. Single tickets cost about 30–40 CZK and are valid for 30–90 minutes across metro, tram, and bus lines. Tickets must be validated before entering the metro (Prague Public Transport; Prague Metro Guide).
Olšany Cemeteries
The cemetery is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though hours may vary seasonally. Check official sources or local tourist information for holiday hours. Entry is free, and guided tours focusing on historical and architectural highlights can be arranged through local operators.
Žižkov Television Tower
The tower is open daily, typically from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with last entry at 9:30 PM. Tickets cost 250 CZK for adults, 150 CZK for children aged 6–15, and 200 CZK for seniors; family and group discounts are available. Guided tours are offered on request and provide further information about the tower and the city.
From Želivského station, the tower is a 10–15-minute walk or a short tram ride. The tower and metro station are accessible for visitors with disabilities.
Tips
- For a quieter metro journey, avoid peak morning hours (7:00–9:00 AM) and evening hours (4:00–6:00 PM).
- Cafés and shops in and around the station offer refreshments and supplies.
- At Olšany Cemeteries, dress respectfully and keep quiet, especially near active gravesites. Photography is permitted, but avoid disturbing mourners. The paths and monuments are a draw for history enthusiasts and photographers (View from Prague: Cemeteries).
- Traditional Czech pubs can be found in Žižkov, with international restaurants near Flora and Jiřího z Poděbrad. Beer gardens at Riegrovy Sady and Parukářka Park are lively in spring and summer.
- Other options include street-art tours in Žižkov, independent cinemas such as Kino Aero, and farmers’ markets near Flora and Jiřího z Poděbrad.
- Digital tools such as the Audiala app provide up-to-date tips, guided tours, and navigation (Audiala).
Nearby places
| Attraction | Walking time | Public transport time |
|---|---|---|
| Žižkov Television Tower | 10 min | 5 min (tram/metro) |
| Olšany Cemeteries | 2 min | — |
| Atrium Flora Shopping Center | 12 min | 3 min (metro) |
| Parukářka Park | 15 min | 7 min (tram) |
| Vítkov Hill & National Monument | 20 min | 10 min (tram) |
| Jiřího z Poděbrad Square | 20 min | 5 min (metro) |
| Riegrovy Sady | 25 min | 10 min (tram/metro) |
(DPP)
Frequently asked questions
What are the Želivského metro station hours?
The station operates daily from around 5:00 AM to midnight.
Is Olšany Cemetery free to visit?
Yes. Entry is free.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours can be booked through local tour operators.
Is Želivského accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The station and nearby attractions are equipped for accessibility.
How do I reach the city center from Želivského?
Take Metro Line A. Wenceslas Square is less than 10 minutes away.
