Discover the Memorial Kafka in Prague: A Surreal Tribute to a Literary Giant

Introduction

Few writers are as deeply connected to Prague as Franz Kafka, whose haunting, surreal works have made him one of the most influential authors of the 20th century. To honour his legacy, the city unveiled the Memorial Kafka (Pomník Franze Kafky) in 2003. This striking bronze statue, created by sculptor Jaroslav Róna, captures both the spirit of Kafka’s imagination and the atmosphere of the city that shaped him.

The memorial depicts a smaller Kafka sitting on the shoulders of a headless, oversized figure in a suit — a surreal image inspired by Kafka’s short story Description of a Struggle. Its location, between the Spanish Synagogue and Church of the Holy Spirit, places it in the heart of the Jewish Quarter (Josefov), where Kafka was born and raised.

Visiting the Kafka Memorial isn’t just about seeing a statue. It’s about stepping into the symbolic world of an author whose words continue to influence literature, philosophy, and even popular culture. For fans of Kafka, it’s a must-see. For others, it’s a fascinating glimpse into Prague’s cultural identity.

What is the Memorial Kafka in Prague famous for?

The Memorial Kafka is famous for its surreal bronze statue depicting Kafka riding a headless figure. It symbolises the strange and dreamlike worlds he created in his stories, as well as his sense of alienation in modern society.

Why should you visit the Memorial Kafka in Prague?

You should visit the Memorial Kafka because it:

Offers a unique and artistic tribute to one of Prague’s greatest writers.

Reflects Kafka’s surreal style through its thought-provoking design.

Stands in the Jewish Quarter, a district deeply tied to Kafka’s life and identity.

Makes for a perfect stop on a literary or cultural walking tour of Prague.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit the Memorial Kafka?

The Kafka Memorial is an outdoor public monument, so it is accessible 24/7.

Best times to visit:

Early morning or evening: For quieter moments and atmospheric light.

Spring and autumn: Mild weather makes strolling through the Jewish Quarter especially pleasant.

Evenings in winter: The statue looks dramatic under streetlights.

How much does it cost to visit the Memorial Kafka in Prague?

Visiting the Kafka Memorial is completely free of charge.

What can you see or do at the Memorial Kafka in Prague?

Admire the statue: Its surreal design makes it one of the most unusual monuments in Prague.

Learn about Kafka: Plaques nearby explain the symbolism and the author’s connection to the area.

Explore the Jewish Quarter: The memorial is surrounded by historic synagogues, museums, and streets tied to Kafka’s childhood.

Take photos: The sculpture’s unique form makes it a favourite spot for creative photography.

What is the history behind the Memorial Kafka in Prague?

The Kafka Memorial was created by Czech sculptor Jaroslav Róna and unveiled in 2003. The design is based on Kafka’s short story Description of a Struggle, in which the protagonist rides on another man’s shoulders through Prague.

The memorial reflects the surreal, unsettling atmosphere of Kafka’s works and his recurring themes of alienation, identity, and power. Its placement in the Jewish Quarter is significant: Kafka was born nearby in 1883 and lived much of his life in this part of the city.

Today, the memorial is not only a tribute to Kafka’s genius but also a reminder of Prague’s role as the backdrop for his imagination.

Where is the Memorial Kafka located and how do you get there?

The Kafka Memorial is located in Josefov, the Jewish Quarter, near the Spanish Synagogue, at the intersection of Dušní Street and Vězeňská Street.

How to get there:

By metro: Line A to Staroměstská station, then a 5-minute walk.

By tram: Lines 17 and 18 stop at Staroměstská.

On foot: Easily reached from Old Town Square in less than 10 minutes.

Insider Tips for Visiting the Memorial Kafka

📸 Visit at night for moody, atmospheric photos of the statue under lights.

📖 Read Kafka’s The Trial or Metamorphosis before your visit — it makes the experience more meaningful.

🕍 Combine your stop with a tour of the Jewish Museum and synagogues nearby to explore Kafka’s cultural roots.

Nearby Attractions to the Memorial Kafka in Prague

Spanish Synagogue: A stunning Moorish Revival synagogue just steps away.

Old-New Synagogue: The oldest active synagogue in Europe.

Jewish Cemetery: One of the most historic cemeteries in Europe.

Old Town Square: With its Astronomical Clock and Gothic architecture, a 5-minute walk.

Kafka’s Birthplace: Marked with a plaque at the corner of Maiselova Street.

Turn Your Visit into an Adventure

The Memorial Kafka in Prague is more than just a statue — it’s a doorway into the surreal world of one of the most influential writers of modern literature. Standing before it, you’re not only in the Jewish Quarter but also in the heart of Kafka’s imagination.

With Questo, you can make your visit interactive. Solve riddles through Prague’s Old Town, follow Kafka’s footsteps, and uncover the stories hidden in the city’s streets.

👉 Download the Questo app today and turn your visit to the Kafka Memorial into an unforgettable literary adventure.