Beekeeping in the centre of Prague: Brumlovka proves that quality honey is not just made in the countryside

This year, nearly 100 kilograms of honey were produced at Brumlovka from four beehives located in the area. An analysis conducted by the Apiculture Research Institute has confirmed that the honey is of high quality, comparable to that produced in the countryside. The key to this success lies in the diverse greenery, flowers and plants around Brumlovka, as well as the proximity of the Krč Forest, which provides bees with a rich and varied foraging environment. Urban beekeeping at Brumlovka brings more than just delicious honey – it supports local biodiversity and symbolises cooperation between the community and businesses in the area. In addition, Brumlovka’s tenants have the opportunity to sponsor a bee colony, further contributing to this eco-friendly initiative.

Urban honey: surprising quality

While many assume that bees in urban areas cannot thrive as well as in the countryside, the opposite is often true. The diversity of forage in cities – found in parks, gardens, balconies and rooftop terraces – can even surpass that of rural areas. This is evidenced by the 92 kilograms of floral honey harvested at Brumlovka this year, amounting to 368 jars.

“We’re thrilled with how well the bees are doing at Brumlovka,” says Martin Unger, CTO & ESG Lead at Passerinvest Group. “Thanks to tenant interest in beehive sponsorships, we’ve been able to add another hive to the rooftop of the Filadelfie building alongside the four hives already in place on the Delta office building. This not only increases honey production but also further supports biodiversity and environmental development in the Prague 4 area.”

More than just honey

The hives on Brumlovka’s rooftops are part of a collaboration with the Bees on Rooftops initiative, which promotes urban beekeeping. Tenants and companies can even watch the bees in action via live web cameras, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these quiet yet essential creatures. Continuous monitoring of various bee colony behaviours inside the hives is also part of an ongoing research project, providing valuable insights for all beekeepers. In addition to honey production, the bees pollinate local plants, strengthening the ecosystem and enhancing its resilience to climate change.

Brumlovka honey brings joy far beyond the hives. As last year, Passerinvest Group will donate half of its honey harvest to the Letokruh senior citizens’ association, which uses it to bake Christmas gingerbread. These treats are then gifted by Passerinvest Group to the local community during festive events, such as the Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Each gingerbread treat is not only a delightful gift but also a symbol of solidarity and collaboration that makes Brumlovka an exceptional place to live and work.