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The House at the Minute: A Renaissance Gem

Admire the Renaissance facade of this historical house in Prague's Old Town Square, once home to Franz Kafka and adorned with intricate sgraffito.

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Located in Prague's Old Town Square, the House at the Minute is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture adorned with intricate sgraffito decorations. Once home to Franz Kafka, this historical landmark offers a glimpse into Prague's rich cultural past.

A brief summary to The House at the Minute

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the intricate sgraffito decorations on the facade.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Old Town Square and other nearby historical sites.
  • Look for the small white lion sculpture on the corner of the building, a remnant of its past as a pharmacy.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The House at the Minute is located in the Old Town Square, a central and easily accessible location in Prague. From the Astronomical Clock, simply walk a few steps east across the square. The house is part of the Old Town Hall complex and is easily identifiable by its ornate sgraffito facade.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport, take the Metro A or B line to Můstek station or the tram to Staroměstská station. From either station, it's a short walk to the Old Town Square. Public transport tickets cost 30 CZK for 30 minutes or 40 CZK for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Prague. A short taxi ride from Wenceslas Square to the Old Town Square will cost approximately 150-180 CZK, including the initial fee and per kilometer charge. Ensure the taxi meter is running to avoid overcharging.

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Discover more about The House at the Minute

The House at the Minute, or 'Dům U Minuty' in Czech, is a remarkable historical landmark situated in Prague's bustling Old Town Square. This iconic structure stands as a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage, showcasing a captivating facade with intricate details that draw visitors from around the world. Originally a late-Gothic house from the 15th century, it was rebuilt in the Renaissance style in the 16th century. The house was once known as “At the White Lion” and served as a pharmacy; a sculpture of a white lion remains at the corner of the building. The current name, “At the Minute,” comes from the small pieces of tobacco that were once sold there. The building's sgraffito decorations, created in two phases before 1615, depict Habsburg rulers and Renaissance themes. These decorations were hidden during Baroque modifications but rediscovered in 1919. The House at the Minute is also known for being the childhood home of Franz Kafka, who lived there with his family from 1889 to 1896. His three sisters, Elli, Valli, and Ottla, were born there. The house is part of the Old Town City Hall complex, connected to neighboring buildings. While the interior is not generally open to the public, the exterior provides a fascinating glimpse into Prague's history.

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