Prague 3 is hosting flea markets in its inner courtyards on Sunday, May 21st, providing a unique platform for buying and selling second-hand items and allowing visitors to explore two captivating corners of the city. This initiative is part of the larger citywide project called “Živé vnitrobloky” (Living Inner Courtyards) and will be replicated in various locations across Prague.

Inner courtyards make up a significant portion of green spaces within urban environments. The “Živé vnitrobloky” project, organized by associations Bieno and Sběratelka věcí, aims to highlight the importance of these spaces. The Prague 3 municipality has also collaborated in organizing the flea markets, recognizing the potential of inner courtyards.

While many inner courtyards are currently underutilized or in a state of decay, they have the potential to be transformed into vibrant green oases. Through initiatives such as creating gardens, collecting rainwater, implementing permeable surfaces for rainfall, and installing composting systems, these areas can become pleasant locations for community gatherings and relaxation.

The community event on May 21st will focus on two inner courtyards in Prague 3 as the venues for the flea markets. The first courtyard at Radhošťská 18 will be open from 10 am to 2 pm, while the second courtyard at Soběslavská 37 will operate from 1 pm to 5 pm.

Barbora Týcová from the Bieno association emphasizes that this event encourages community engagement and promotes the sharing economy. It aims to showcase inner courtyards as valuable spaces that deserve improvement and can be utilized for various activities, enhancing the quality of life for city residents.

In addition to Prague 3, several other districts in Prague will participate in this initiative. On Saturday, May 20th, flea markets will take place in inner courtyards of Na Bělidle in Prague 5 and U Průhonu in Prague 7 from 10 am to 2 pm. Furthermore, flea markets will be held at Pod Vyšehradem in Prague 4 and Za Poříčskou bránou in Prague 8 from 1 pm to 5 pm. On Sunday, alongside the two inner courtyards in Prague 3, flea markets will also be hosted at Velflíkově in Prague 6 and Aldašínská in Prague 10, both operating from 1 pm to 5 pm.

Visitors to these locations can explore and purchase a wide range of second-hand items, including clothing, electronics, books, toys, furniture, and household goods. The flea markets will also feature supplementary programs and the participation of local businesses and cafés, offering refreshments to visitors. Entrance to the flea markets is free for buyers, while sellers are required to register in advance and pay a fee of 100 Czech korunas for their selling space.

The Bieno association, established in 2015, brings together individuals with previous experience in sustainable urban development projects conducted in collaboration with the public. Through this nonprofit organization, they aim to revive green courtyards, inner spaces, and public areas within cities, fostering a sense of community and enhancing the urban environment.

Article by Prague Forum