Thousands of tropical butterflies take flight in Prague’s Fata Morgana

Prague’s Troja district has been transformed into a tropical oasis as the Botanical Garden opens its popular annual exhibition of live butterflies. Starting April 2, visitors to the Fata Morgana greenhouse can observe thousands of exotic insects in an event that has become a staple of the spring season.

The exhibition, titled Butterflies: The Art of Survival, features more than 5,000 pupae arriving in waves from abroad. Over the coming weeks, these will hatch into dozens of tropical species, allowing visitors to witness the moment of birth before the butterflies join the free-flying colony within the greenhouse’s humid interior.

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, the display highlights the sophisticated defense mechanisms butterflies use to evade predators, such as the "owl eyes" patterns on Caligo wings or the transparent wings of the Greta oto. The massive Atlas moth, known for wing patterns that mimic a snake’s head, is also expected to be a major draw.

"Our butterfly exhibitions are very popular; in recent years, around 100,000 people have come to enjoy them," said Bohumil Černý, Director of the Botanical Garden of the City of Prague.

He noted that this 23rd edition aims to provide a deeper understanding of natural connections alongside the visual experience.

The event has garnered significant local support, with patrons including Olympic champion Kateřina Neumannová and several prominent Czech actresses attending the launch. City officials have also emphasized the educational value for the local community.

"It is not just a parade of flying butterflies," said Jana Komrsková, Deputy Mayor of Prague. "Each year brings a strong theme. The connection with the interactive exhibition draws attention to endangered species of our own butterflies and brings their fragile lives closer."

In addition to the greenhouse display, an interactive "Secrets of Butterfly Life" exhibition is running in the garden's exhibition hall. Families can participate in weekend art workshops, guided tours, and a quiz competition.

The exhibition runs until May 17. The greenhouse is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. with an exceptional opening scheduled for Easter Monday, April 6. Officials recommend purchasing tickets online to avoid long queues, particularly during the busy weekend periods.