Bubeneč is one of Prague’s most affluent districts. It was here that Czechoslovakia’s most influential and wealthiest families built their luxurious villas in the years between the wars. The most expensive First Republic villa is undoubtedly the family palace of Otto Petschek, a doctor of law and member of a famous Jewish family of successful bankers. This magnificent residence, containing 148 rooms and designed in the French Classicist Baroque style by architect Max Spielmann, was built between 1924 and 1930. The lavishly ornate interior is dominated by a monumental staircase connecting the individual floors. The mansion also included a gym and an underground swimming pool in the style of a Roman bath; the villa also boasted the most state-of-the-art technical facilities in its time. The family was forced to emigrate in 1938 and, since 1945, the palace has been owned by the United States and serves as the residence of the US ambassador. Related From Bubeneč to Troja — an idyllic tree-lined stroll among villas A romantic walk that takes you from the immediate vicinity of Prague Castle to the Bubeneč district, a charming, peaceful neighbourhood full of stylish villas and manicured gardens that are today home to embassies and diplomatic residences. You’ll find ornate Art Nouveau villas with folklore motifs, grand period mansions, as well as the lovely Governor's Summer Palace, overlooking Stromovka Park, the oldest and most extensive park in Prague.