The Golden Lane dates back to the late 15th century, when the new Gothic fortification of the castle was built: it ran farther than the previous defense system and created a new space within the protected area. The servants of the court settled there in temporary shelters. These were destroyed during a fire and were replaced by small stone houses in the late 16th century, upon special authorization by the Emperor Rudolf II. At this time, myths arose about the Emperor’s alchemists who are said to have lived in the little street, firing the imagination of later generations with the idea of a “magical” and esoteric Prague. By the end of the 18th century, new residents settled there, particularly craftsmen and goldsmiths, and gradually people from poorer classes. Artists looking for inspiration lived there in the early 20th century, the most famous of which was Franz Kafka, who stayed for a short time in the house number 22.

Nowadays, the place is occupied by craftsmen and souvenir shopkeepers, who keep the spirit of the street alive, outside of tourist peak gatherings.

Prague Castle site (Pražský hrad)
Prague 1
www.hrad.cz

How to get there:
Tramway 22, stop "Pražský hrad"
Subway Green line A, station "Malostranská"