Prague: Kampa Island - or is it?

Kampa Island is actually an extension of Mala Strana the area across the Vlatva River. The southern end of Mala Strana melds into Kampa and it includes the John Lennon wall.  But before we get to that, I want to share a few of the other charms of this area.  

You only have to walk a few blocks to get out of the hustle and bustle.  The Church of Our Lady in Chains (don't you just love the name?) was initially built by  the Knights of Malta.   Why them?  This area was given to the K of M by Vladislav ll in the 12c.  The church's facade dates from the 14th C and was part of a walled hospice.  

Facade of Our Lady in Chains

On the square Maltezske namesti (named for the K of M) there is a beautiful rococo palace that now serves as the Japanese embassy built in 1767.

 

Turba Palace now Japanese Embassy

A small channel constructed in the middle ages separates this strip of land from the rest, but it doesn't appear entirely divided, thus my questioning of the term island. Not that it affects the charm of the area, in any case.The channel was created so water could be used to power Mill Wheels and there are a few that remain (but don't really function).

Kampa Canal

One of the waterwheels is next to a Renaissance building known as the Grand Prior's Mill.  It has a weird carved figure next to it of more recent origins.

See the small carved figure at the end of the dock?  Beats me what it is, any guesses?

 Just before you reach the Mill there is a stretch of wall that is a tribute to John Lennon.  This is attached to the building that has been reclaimed by the K of M and it's future is unsure.  John Lennon became a beloved cult figure during the communist era for his anti-establishment attitudes.  The wall was spontaneously created in 1980 after Lennon's death.  The wall has resisted efforts to remove it. (or more accurately the people supporting the wall's existence.)

Part of John Lennon Wall

At one time, the then French ambassador even stepped into support its existence.  He was a Beatles fanatic and the French embassy overlooks the wall.

Fench Embassy across from Lennon wall.

 As you decend into the island there are, of course, the obligatory cafes.  Including...

You guessed it - this pub has British beer and Beatles decor

  Most of the island is a lovely quiet park.

Sunday morning in Kampa Park

There is also a Modern Art Museum on the island.

I believe they used my grandchildren as models

March of the Penguins. I know, I know, how obvious!

 There are lovely views of the Charles Bridge (Karlovy Most).

Charles Bridge and Old Town

Steps to and from the Charles Bridge at Kampa Island's northern end

All in all a most delightful meandering.