One of the most photogenic locations within Prague Castle grounds. This tiny street is located on the eastern side of the complex, between the Bílá Tower and the Daliborka Tower. It consists of 11 colourful houses with very low lintels that seem to have come straight from a fairy tale.
The Golden Lane dates back to the 16th century – during the reign of Rudolf II, these houses were built into the castle fortification walls and occupied by royal guards and shooters. Even though the Golden Lane is often referred to as ‘the street of alchemists’, the king’s alchemists were actually plying their trade elsewhere.
In the 17th century this street was home to royal goldsmiths, which explains its official name. Golden Lane continued to serve as modest dwellings until WWII, and among its famous residents were Franz Kafka and mysterious fortuneteller Madame de Thebes (Matylda Průšová) – who predicted the end of Nazism and was killed by Gestapo officers.
After the war, this picturesque passage was renovated and turned into a museum. Though often touristy, it retains that magnetic, olden-world atmosphere and offers period installations depicting what life was like here centuries ago. You can look at various artefacts and furniture, marvel at the small size of the rooms and imagine how artisans went about their daily business here. Also, don’t miss house no.22 – which is Kafka’s former abode.
You can also find a display of medieval armoury there and buy unique handicrafts and souvenirs in the numerous gift shops.
