FAMOUS NAMES OF PRAGUE AND CZECHIA - DISCOVER MUSEUMS WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

There is no better way to get unique insights into Czech culture and history than through the lives of remarkable individuals who once lived in Prague. Inside these characterful houses and museums you will find something that’s just irresistible – true spirit of bygone days and testament to the amazing personal impact these people made.

Prague has no shortage of such places, once lived in by or dedicated to some of Czechia’s most well-known and influential figures. World-famous composers, artists, literary authors and aristocratic families – take a closer look at their heritage and enjoy a very special atmosphere, sometimes quirky, sometimes grand and imposing, or even slightly mysterious.

Lobkowicz Palace

On the grounds of Prague Castle you can take an unforgettable journey across 700 years of European history reflected in the life events of one illustrious family. And the spectacular setting for this journey is the only privately-owned palace of the entire castle complex.

Still belonging to the great Lobkowicz dynasty, it features exceptional medieval and Renaissance art collections combined with the intimacy of a private home. You will be guided through this noble environment by a wonderful audio guide, narrated by the present-day members of the Lobkowicz family.

Nelahozeves Castle

Also property of the Lobkowicz, the Nelahozeves Castle is one more richly preserved snapshot of aristocratic life in Bohemia. It is situated 35 km north of Prague and offers a permanent exhibition called Private Spaces: A Noble Family at Home.

Sparkling chandeliers, gilt-framed portraits and one-of-a-kind artefacts – expect everything associated with the serious aristocratic grandeur of the 19th century.

Franz Kafka Home in the Golden Lane

Perhaps the most famous Prague citizen of the 20th century, the Czech-Jewish writer Franz Kafka has numerous city sights associated with him. One of these is a tiny dwelling in Golden Lane – a picturesque promenade lying in the shadows of Prague Castle.

Ottla, Kafka’s sister rented the house no.22 in Golden Lane, and during 1916-1917 it served as a peaceful and quiet writing retreat for her brother. While short, this was one of the most productive periods of his life. The place has been little altered, giving you the sensation that the mysterious tenant might return at any moment.

Karel Zeman Museum

In this interactive and sweet museum visitors can explore the legacy of the Czech movie maker Karel Zeman. He gained worldwide fame in the 1950s for using special effects that were totally innovative during his time and served as an inspiration for our modern-day directors of fantasy films.

The star attraction for kids is the Baron Munchausen’s flying horse, and adults will be filled with childlike wonder by creating movie magic with your own phone camera.

Antonín Dvořák Museum

Antonín Dvořák was a 19th-century Czech virtuoso composer, renowned for blending folk tradition with the classical symphonic music. A tribute exhibition rather than a home – since Dvořák has never actually lived there, this charming Baroque building will take you on a chronological journey through his life. It contains such relics as his piano and viola, original furniture from the composer’s study, as well as personal belongings.

Somewhat underrated and remarkably quiet, this museum is good for a break from busy tourist activities. Besides, it is often used as a living cultural space which hosts classical music concerts.

Bedřich Smetana Museum

One of the loveliest touches at the Museum of Bedřich Smetana - the founder of Czech national music – is the opportunity to interact directly with his compositions. Can you imagine stepping into conductor’s shoes and bringing the sheet music to life with a sweep of a laser baton?

The fantastic virtuoso who famously wrote his most recognizable orchestral piece while turning completely deaf, had an enormous impact on Bohemia’s cultural heritage. The museum celebrates both his life and career, and is a very inspiring place – even if you are not particularly keen on classical music.

Werich Villa

If you're looking for a taste of remarkably local culture, check out the Werich Villa – located in the vicinity of Museum Kampa. This building, which is 450 years old and has been recently renovated, owes its popularity to Jan Werich - a well-known Czech actor and playwright who resided there during the 20th century. The exhibition focuses primarily on his life and work, while also providing a broader view of life in Czechoslovakia during that era.

Bílek Villa

František Bílek, one of the most prominent Czech sculptors of the early 20th century, built his villa in Prague’s Hradčany district between 1910 and 1911. It’s more of an artwork than a house-museum, as here you can really feel the great master’s artistic personality behind the original furnishings – not just his works. Wooden sculptures and furniture, carvings, sketches, even door handles – creativity in every little detail, reflecting Bílek’s deep mystical convictions and spiritual view of life.

Josef Sudek Gallery

Poet of Prague – such was the affectionate nickname of Josef Sudek, an influential Czech photographer of the 20th century. His former home, which is now known as Sudek Gallery, is one more hidden gem with specifically local flavour. Once a favourite meeting place for many artists, now it offers an exhibition of his works – lyrical, intimate and monochrome, as well as insights into Czech modern photography.

Zdenka Braunerová Studio

Part of the Roztoky Castle complex, which is about 12 km north of Prague, Zdenka Braunerová studio pays tribute to a truly outstanding woman on the Czech 1900s art scene. A painter and a patron of other artists, she designed her home and studio herself, taking inspiration from her travels in England and France.

The place is faithfully reconstructed and feels intensely personal – containing works of art and stylish period furniture. It will easily immerse you into the atmosphere of Zdenka’s famous cultural salon, visited by many great artists and intellectuals of the era, including the French sculptor Auguste Rodin.