Nerudova Street
Street in Prague
Tucked into the charming hills of Prague’s Lesser Town, Nerudova Street offers a picturesque walk that’s rich in architectural detail and history. Once the final stretch of the ceremonial Royal Way—used by Bohemian kings en route to their coronation at Prague Castle—it now invites curious wanderers to climb its gentle slope and explore its hidden treasures. The street was named after 19th-century Czech writer Jan Neruda, who lived here and used the neighborhood as a setting and source of inspiration for many of his short stories and essays.
Before house numbers were introduced in the late 18th century, Prague’s buildings were identified by distinctive house signs, many of which still adorn Nerudova’s façades today. Look out for No. 12, “At the Three Fiddles,” once home to the Edlinger family of violin-makers. No. 16 features “At the Golden Cup,” a tribute to a lineage of goldsmiths dating back to 1660. At No. 34, the “Golden Horseshoe” sign includes an actual horseshoe mounted beneath a painted steed—a charming detail that dates to 1559.
Architectural enthusiasts will enjoy the work of famed Baroque architect Giovanni Santini, whose influence can be seen at several properties on the street. Morzin Palace at No. 5 stands out with its striking façade representing night and day, designed by Ferdinand Brokoff, who also created statues for Charles Bridge. Directly across at No. 20 is the Thun-Hohenstein Palace, marked by a regal eagle-topped gateway sculpted by Mathias Braun. As you wander further, look for the vaulted passage under No. 13, and don’t miss the Bretfeld Palace at No. 33, where legends like Mozart and Casanova once stayed during the 1787 premiere of Don Giovanni.
The Nerudova Street appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Nerudova Street
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Street in Prague
