Who Lived in Golden Lane Prague?

By Alice Nichols

Golden Lane is a street located within the Prague Castle complex in the Czech Republic. Despite its small size, it has a rich history and has been home to many interesting people over the years. Let’s take a closer look at who lived in Golden Lane Prague.

The Beginnings of Golden Lane

Golden Lane was originally built in the 16th century as part of the defensive fortifications of Prague Castle. The street was named after goldsmiths who were brought to the area by Emperor Rudolf II to work on his precious collection of objects. It wasn’t until later that homes were built along the lane.

The Famous Alchemist

One of the most famous residents of Golden Lane was an alchemist named Edward Kelley. He lived in one of the houses from 1597 to 1599 and worked with John Dee, an English mathematician, and astrologer. Together they claimed to have communicated with angels and even tried to turn base metals into gold.

The Writer

Franz Kafka, one of the most renowned writers of the 20th century, also lived on Golden Lane for a brief period. He moved into house number 22 in 1916 with his sister Ottla. The house is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

The Toy Maker

Another notable resident was Jiří Trnka, a famous Czech puppet maker who lived on Golden Lane from 1945 until his death in 1969. He created many puppet plays and films that are still popular today.

The Soldiers

During World War II, Golden Lane became home to several soldiers who were stationed at Prague Castle as part of their duties. Their presence helped protect the castle from being taken over by Nazi forces.

Conclusion

Golden Lane may be small in size, but it has been home to some truly fascinating people throughout its history. From alchemists and writers to puppet makers and soldiers, the lane has seen its fair share of interesting characters. A visit to Golden Lane is a must for anyone interested in the history of Prague Castle and the people who lived there.