Divoka Sarka (pronounced as Shar-ka) is now a picturesque valley located on the outskirts of Prague yet it is also named after one of the pivotal figures in Czech mythology. While there is much uncertainty surrounding the historical accuracy of the legend, most believe the events are meant to have taken place in either the 6th or 7th Century. Prague as it is known today did not exist, with what is now the city centre being completely unsettled, but the largest of the newly created Slavic settlements is believed to have been located in what is now the Divoka Sarka valley

The Death of Libussa

Libussa was, as legend has it, the last in a long line of female rulers in what was then a matriarchal society. When she died many of the men saw this as an opportunity and under Prince Premsyl, her former husband, they succeeded in their bid for power. This was not an ideal situation for many of the women who were now confronted with the situation of having to bow to the new patriarchy. For the women in Libussa’s court, who has enjoyed much privilege and freedom, it was obviously unimaginable and under the leadership of a woman called Vlasta they set up a rival colony on the opposite bank of the river.

The War of the Sexes

While there is meant to have been much bloodshed on both sides, most believe that it was the women who usually had the upper hand. However, a complete victory was prevented by the efforts of the young Ctirad, who Premsyl had appointed to lead the men into battle. It was decided by Vlasta to lay a trap in order to kill Ctriad and Sarka, Vlasta’s right hand woman, volunteered for the task.

Accounts differ as to how exactly Sarka persuaded Ctriad to meet her at what is now the Divoka Sarka valley. One telling is that she used her feminine charms, in conjunction with large amounts of mead, and then killed him when he had drunk himself out of consciousness. Another is that she tied herself naked to a tree, knowing that he would aid a maiden in distress. The other women, who had been lying in wait, then captured him and he was subsequently tortured and killed. While the death of Ctriad may have set back Premsyl’s cause there is not a feminist ending to this legend as he then went on to win the war and kill all the women that had rebelled against him.

While it is generally agreed that Sarka committed suicide by jumping of one of the cliffs that is now named after her, the reasons for this are also uncertain. Some say that in her brief meeting with Ctriad she fell madly in love with him and could not live with her part in his death while others that she saw it as a preferable alternative to surrender.

Divoka Sarka Today

Easily reachable by taking either tram 20 or 26 to the end of the line Divoka Sarka is a popular location for people wishing to escape the heavily touristed centre of Prague. There are stunning views of the largely forested valley from the cliffs that Sarka is alleged to have thrown herself off as well as there being a lake complete with numerous sunbathing areas, picnic spots and a heavy metal bar. Other attractions in the area are all reachable by the numerous footpaths through what is surprisingly remote landscape and include other non-heavy metal bars and cafés, a swimming pool and a camping site.