Prague 3 invites everyone to flea markets in the inner courtyards on Sunday, May 21st. These flea markets offer a platform for buying and selling second-hand items and access to two fascinating corners of Prague 3. This initiative is part of the citywide project called “Živé vnitrobloky” (Living Inner Courtyards) and will be replicated in various locations across the city.
Inner courtyards constitute approximately one-third of the green spaces within cities. The “Živé vnitrobloky” initiative, organized by the associations Bieno and Sběratelka věcí, aims to emphasize the significance of these spaces. As stated on its official website, the Prague 3 municipality has also collaborated in organizing the flea markets.
Despite their potential, many inner courtyards are gradually deteriorating. However, these spaces can be effectively utilized through initiatives such as planting gardens, collecting rainwater, creating permeable surfaces for rainfall, or installing composting systems. By modifying and cultivating these areas, inner courtyards can also become pleasant locations for community gatherings and relaxation.
Vendula Guhová, the community coordinator of Prague 3, highlights that residents in several parts of Prague 3 still have the opportunity to transform unused spaces into vibrant green oases amidst the bustling city. This event aims to draw attention to the importance of inner courtyards in urban environments.
The community event, which will take place on May 21st, focuses explicitly on two inner courtyards in Prague 3 as part of the flea markets. The first one will be open from 10 am to 2 pm at Radhošťská 18, while the second one will operate from 1 pm to 5 pm at Soběslavská 37.
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 to enhance the quality of life for city residents.
Moreover, several other districts in Prague will also participate in this initiative. On Saturday, May 20th, flea markets will occur from 10 am to 2 pm in the inner courtyards of Na Bělidle in Prague 5 and U Průhonu in Prague 7. Additionally, from 1 pm to 5 pm, flea markets will be held at Pod Vyšehradem in Prague 4 and Za Poříčskou bránou in Prague 8. On Sunday, apart from 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 at all these locations can buy or sell a wide range of second-hand items, including clothing, electronics, books, toys, furniture, and household goods. Additionally, supplementary programs and the participation of local businesses and cafés will offer refreshments. 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 various 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.