Sluice Smíchov, Navigation lock in Smíchov district, Czech Republic
Sluice Smíchov is a water control system with four consecutive gates that raises or lowers boats to navigate the Vltava River at different levels. The structure allows vessels to pass through varying water heights as they move along the river.
The lock was built between 1911 and 1922, replacing two older dams that previously impeded river flow. This project reflected Prague's drive to modernize its waterway infrastructure during the early 1900s.
The lock illustrates Prague's relationship with its river and how water management shaped the city's development. It remains a working example of how transportation infrastructure became woven into the urban landscape.
You can watch the lock operations from Janáček Embankment, which offers good viewing spots and clear sight lines. The site is easily accessible by tram and bus, with no special requirements to observe from nearby vantage points.
This lock handles more boat traffic than any other lock on the river, with tourist vessels passing through throughout the year. You can watch dozens of sightseeing boats moving through on a typical day.
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