Golden Lane (Czech: Zlatá ulička) is a street situated in Prague Castle, Czech Republic. Originally built in the 16th century, to house Rudolf II's castle guards, it takes its name from the goldsmiths that lived there in the 17th century. Although the lane was temporarily called the Street of Alchemists or Alchemists' Alley, alchemists have never worked or lived there. Golden Lane consists of small houses, painted in bright colours in the 1950s. The street originally had houses on both sides, but one side was demolished in the 19th century. Today the lane is a part of the small and big castle rings (i.e. a fee must be paid to enter), while there is free entry after the Prague Castle interiors close. Many of the houses are now souvenir shops, and there is a museum of medieval armoury within the former 14th-century fortification accessible from Golden Lane. A sister of writer Franz Kafka rented the house number 22 in the summer of 1916; Kafka used this house to write for approximately one year. Jaroslav Seifert, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1984 and who was one of the signatories of Charter 77, lived there in 1929. Golden Lane is connected with Dalibor Tower, which used to be a dungeon.
Golden Lane (Zlata Ulicka) Tours and Tickets
🎧 Available audio guides (15)
Golden Lane (Czech: Zlatá ulička) is a street situated in Prague Castle, Czech Republic. Originally built in the 16th century, to house Rudolf II's castle guards, it takes its name from the goldsmiths that lived there in the 17th century. Although the lane was temporarily called the Street of Alchemists or Alchemists' Alley, alchemists have never worked or lived there. Golden Lane consists of small houses, painted in bright colours in the 1950s. The street originally had houses on both sides, but one side was demolished in the 19th century. Today the lane is a part of the small and big castle rings (i.e. a fee must be paid to enter), while there is free entry after the Prague Castle interiors close. Many of the houses are now souvenir shops, and there is a museum of medieval armoury within the former 14th-century fortification accessible from Golden Lane. A sister of writer Franz Kafka rented the house number 22 in the summer of 1916; Kafka used this house to write for approximately one year. Jaroslav Seifert, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1984 and who was one of the signatories of Charter 77, lived there in 1929. Golden Lane is connected with Dalibor Tower, which used to be a dungeon.
Overview
More Info
- Golden Lane is a must-visit for history lovers.
- The lane is not wheelchair accessible.
- Admission to Golden Lane is included with most Prague Castle tour tickets.
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Accessibility for wheels
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Bathroom: Too narrow for wheelchair
Access for Seniors
- Recommended time for visit 2 hours
Access for Visually Impaired
- Braille description
- Audio Guide
- Place has Special Guide Service
- Service animals permitted
- Touch Gallery
Picture yourself walking down the charming cobblestone streets of Golden Lane in Prague, also known as Zlata Ulicka. The narrow alleyway is lined with colorful houses that seem to whisper secrets of the past.
As you make your way through the bustling thoroughfare, you can hear the faint sound of a violin playing in the distance. The music floats through the air, adding a sense of melancholy to the already nostalgic atmosphere.
The smell of freshly baked pastries wafts from a nearby bakery, tempting you with its sweet allure. The scent mingles with the earthy aroma of damp stone, creating a sensory symphony that envelopes you in comfort and warmth.
You pause for a moment to admire the intricate details of the houses that line the lane. Each one is unique, with bright hues and whimsical architecture that harkens back to a time long forgotten. The windows are adorned with flowers, their petals reaching out as if to touch the passersby.
Turning a corner, you come across a small courtyard filled with vibrant blooms. The colors are so vivid, it feels as though you’ve stumbled upon a painting come to life. The gentle hum of bees fills the air, adding a sense of tranquility to the bustling streets.
As you continue on your journey, you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder at the history that surrounds you. Golden Lane has seen so much over the years, its walls holding the stories of countless souls who have walked its path.
The sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the lane and bathing everything in a warm light. Shadows dance along the walls, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue that lingers in the air.
Your time in Golden Lane is coming to an end, but as you turn to leave, you know that a piece of it will stay with you forever. The beauty, the history, the emotions - all of it has left its mark on your soul, creating a memory that will never fade. And as you walk away, you can’t help but feel grateful for the journey you’ve experienced in this magical place.
Accessibility details for Golden Lane (Zlata Ulicka) in Prague:
1. Audio descriptive guides:
- Availability: Audio descriptive guides may be available for visitors with visual impairments. It is recommended to contact the site directly in advance to inquire about the availability of audio descriptive guides.
2. Sensory-friendly hours:
- Availability: Golden Lane may offer sensory-friendly hours for visitors with sensory sensitivities. It is recommended to check with the site or their official website for any specific information on sensory-friendly hours or accommodations.
For the most up-to-date and accurate information on accessibility features at Golden Lane in Prague, it is best to contact the site directly or visit their official website.
Golden Lane, nestled within the grounds of Prague Castle, has long been a source of inspiration for local writers and artists. Here, locals and tourists alike can wander along the picturesque cobblestone streets, lined with colorful houses that once housed Prague Castle’s defenders.
For many locals, Golden Lane represents a piece of Prague’s rich history and folklore. The narrow alleyway is said to have been built in the 16th century to accommodate the castle’s sharpshooters, and its charming architecture has captured the imagination of countless writers and artists over the years.
One local writer, Pavel, describes Golden Lane as a place where time seems to stand still. "Walking through Golden Lane is like stepping back in time," he says. "The houses are so well-preserved, you can almost imagine the lives of the people who once lived here."
Local artist Eva finds inspiration in the unique atmosphere of Golden Lane. "The colors of the houses, the uneven cobblestones, the intricate details... it’s a painter’s dream," she explains. "I’ve spent countless hours sketching and painting the buildings and the people who pass by."
For many locals, Golden Lane is more than just a tourist attraction - it’s a symbol of Prague’s enduring spirit. "To me, Golden Lane represents resilience and creativity," says musician Tomas. "Despite its turbulent history, it has remained a place of beauty and wonder, inspiring generations of artists and dreamers."
Indeed, Golden Lane continues to draw visitors from near and far, each one finding their own connection to its storied past and timeless charm. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Golden Lane is sure to leave you with a lasting impression of Prague’s artistic soul.
### Directions and Transportation
- By Tram/Bus: The closest tram stop to Golden Lane is Malostranská (trams 12, 20, 22) which is a short walk away. Alternatively, you can reach the castle via buses 192 or 176 to Pohořelec and walk down the hill to the castle complex.
- By Metro: The closest metro station is Malostranská (Line A/green line), from where you can walk uphill to reach Prague Castle.
- By Car: There is limited parking near Prague Castle, but you can find paid parking spaces nearby. It’s recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a spot.
- Accessibility: Golden Lane is mostly accessible to people with mobility issues, but some of the historic buildings may have limited access. Elevators and specially designed routes are available to facilitate movement for wheelchair users.
### Ticket Booking and Discounts
- Ticket Booking: Tickets for Prague Castle, which includes access to Golden Lane, can be purchased on-site or online. Booking in advance is recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Discounts: Student discounts, senior citizen discounts, and family tickets are available for entry to Prague Castle. It’s advisable to carry valid identification to avail of these discounts.
### Local Amenities
- Parking: Limited parking is available near Prague Castle, but there are paid parking spaces nearby. Consider using public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
- Restrooms: Restrooms are available within the Prague Castle complex. It’s recommended to use these facilities before entering Golden Lane as options might be limited in the narrow historic buildings.
- Dining Options: There are cafes and restaurants within Prague Castle offering a variety of cuisines. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available for visitors with dietary preferences or restrictions. Consider making reservations at restaurants to avoid wait times.