Fortna – The Convent of Discalced Carmelites by TERRA FLORIDA + sulzer landscape architects

Built in 2023 / 2025 Built Landscapes / 2025 Entries / 2025 Public Projects / Czech Republic /
terraflorida.cz + jansulzer.cz

Fortna – The Convent of Discalced Carmelites at Hradčanské Square is a unique place with a rich history. The renewal of the gardens – the cloister garth and terrace – reflects the spiritual and symbolic meaning of the site and responds to changes over time. The design calms the space and boosts its aesthetic and functional value. The whole community took part in reviving the garden – members of the congregation and friends of Fortna. Their enthusiastic involvement helped turn the space into a lively place that naturally connects to the local community and its needs.

Cloister garth (Garden of Eden): The main composition is based on the emblem of the Carmelite order. A cross on Mount Carmel is inscribed in the paving as a sandstone matrix. Its vertical axis is directed toward the Carmel range in Israel. The mountain is symbolized by a circular area split by the cross into four parts. The three stars in the Order’s emblem are shown as three trees. A large bowl made of corten steel with a water surface completes the atmosphere and reflects the sky and surroundings. The planting includes perennials and shrubs, focusing on seasonal changes. The east side of the garden serves as a stone patio, providing a space for events. The gazebo retains its original look.

Terrace: The lower garden follows the tradition of useful monastic gardens. A four-part design is used. Four circular beds made of corten steel are planted with medicinal herbs. The walls around are softened with hydrangeas and climbing roses. The design is completed with bulbs typical of monastic gardens.

Both areas are rooftop gardens placed on a massive structure of historical cellars with up to 50 cm of substrate depth. The structure includes deeper planting pits for trees.

• All landscape architecture offices involved in the design of the landscape:
TERRA FLORIDA, sulzer landscape architects

• Other credits:
Implementer: Construction part – Doctus s.r.o.
Vegetation part: The implementation was made possible thanks to a fundraising campaign for plant material. The planting was carried out voluntarily by friends of Fortna, led by Lada Veselá and Jan Sulzer.
Irrigation and lighting: ITTEC, s.r.o.