Prague Castle's Golden Lane & Daliborka Tower: Historic Exhibitions and Cultural Insights

Explore the picturesque Golden Lane at Prague Castle, a charming street of colorful houses built into fortifications around the 16th century. The houses now host exhibitions detailing life in the lane over five centuries, including the former residence of Franz Kafka.

The Golden Lane, a tiny, picturesque street nestled between the Bílá Tower and Daliborka Tower at Prague Castle, is lined with colorful houses constructed into the castle's fortifications around the late 16th century. These houses were inhabited until World War II, and their current appearance largely dates from 1955. Following an extensive renovation, nine of the sixteen houses now feature permanent exhibitions that document life in the lane over the past five centuries. These displays depict various residents, from the castle guard ('red shooters') and goldsmiths to a herbalist, a clairvoyant, and an amateur film historian. The street also showcases reconstructed interiors such as a goldsmith's workshop and a pub. Notably, Franz Kafka resided and worked in house number 22 from 1916 to 1917. Visitors can also explore the Defensive Corridor above the houses, which is now lined with knight armour, and the White Tower (Bílá Tower), which formerly served as a prison. The Daliborka Tower, a prominent round tower at the eastern end, also served as a prison and is accessible to visitors. The Golden Lane is an integral part of the Prague Castle circuit tour.

Admission to the Golden Lane is part of the Prague Castle circuit ticket. After closing hours, the lane is accessible for free but without interior visits to the houses. Specific admission fees are provided for standard, concessions, and family tickets within the circuit context.