Discover The House at the Minute in Prague: A Renaissance Gem with Hidden Stories

Introduction

Right on the corner of Prague’s Old Town Square, just a few steps from the world-famous Astronomical Clock, stands one of the city’s most remarkable historic buildings — The House at the Minute (Dům U Minuty). Its striking façade, covered in elaborate black-and-white sgraffito, makes it an unmissable sight. The images depict scenes from Greek mythology, biblical stories, as well as Renaissance symbolism, turning the building into a kind of open-air gallery.

Built in the 15th century as a late Gothic townhouse and later remodelled in the Renaissance style, the House at the Minute is much more than just a beautiful façade. It was once a tobacco shop (which gave it its curious name) and the childhood home of Franz Kafka, Prague’s most celebrated writer. Today, it forms part of the Prague City Hall complex.

Visiting The House at the Minute offers more than architectural admiration. It’s a chance to stand where history, literature, and art converge in one of the city’s most iconic locations.

What is The House at the Minute in Prague famous for?

The House at the Minute is famous for its Renaissance sgraffito façade, which features mythological, biblical, and allegorical scenes. It’s also renowned as the childhood home of Franz Kafka, who lived here with his family in the late 19th century.

Why should you visit The House at the Minute in Prague?

You should visit The House at the Minute because it offers:

A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture in the heart of Old Town.

A direct connection to Franz Kafka, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.

A chance to explore Prague’s history through art, as the façade reflects Renaissance culture and beliefs.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit The House at the Minute?

The House at the Minute itself is part of the City Hall complex, so its interior is not generally open for tours. However, the exterior façade is the main attraction and can be viewed any time, day or night.

Best times to visit:

Early morning: For photos without crowds.

Evening: When the Old Town Square lights create a magical atmosphere.

Weekdays: Slightly less crowded than weekends.

How much does it cost to visit The House at the Minute in Prague?

Viewing The House at the Minute from the outside is completely free. Visitors only need to budget for nearby attractions, like the Astronomical Clock Tower or the Old Town Hall.

What can you see or do at The House at the Minute in Prague?

Admire the façade: Its sgraffito decorations include Greek gods, biblical figures, and Renaissance allegories.

Learn about Kafka: Spot the plaque marking this as the childhood home of the writer.

Take iconic photos: The building sits right on Old Town Square, with Prague’s most famous landmarks as its backdrop.

Explore the square: The House at the Minute blends seamlessly into Prague’s historic heart.

What is the history behind The House at the Minute in Prague?

The building was originally constructed in the 15th century as a Gothic townhouse. In the 16th century, it was remodelled into the Renaissance style, gaining its famous sgraffito façade. The house got its name, “At the Minute,” from a tobacco shop that once operated inside, where customers bought tobacco “by the minute,” or by the small measure.

In the late 1800s, the Kafka family lived here, and young Franz Kafka spent part of his childhood within its walls. Later, the building became part of the Old Town Hall complex, further cementing its role in Prague’s civic and cultural life.

Where is The House at the Minute located and how do you get there?

The House at the Minute is located on the corner of Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), right next to the Astronomical Clock and Old Town Hall.

How to get there:

By metro: Take Line A to Staroměstská station and walk about 5 minutes.

By tram: Several lines stop at Staroměstská or nearby Karlovy lázně.

On foot: Easily reached from Charles Bridge or Wenceslas Square.

Insider Tips for Visiting The House at the Minute

📸 Visit early in the morning for unobstructed photos of the façade.

📖 Read up on Kafka before you visit — knowing his story adds depth to the experience.

🏛️ Pair your visit with a trip up the Old Town Hall Tower for sweeping views of the square.

Nearby Attractions to The House at the Minute in Prague

Old Town Square: The historic heart of Prague, always lively with culture and history.

Astronomical Clock: Just next door, with its hourly show of moving figures.

Týn Church: A Gothic masterpiece with twin spires dominating the square.

Klementinum: Historic complex with a Baroque library and astronomical tower.

Charles Bridge: A short walk away, linking Old Town with Lesser Town.

Turn Your Visit into an Adventure

The House at the Minute in Prague is a place where architecture, literature, and history come together. Its Renaissance façade tells stories of ancient gods, while its walls once sheltered a literary genius. Standing before it, you’re connected to Prague’s artistic soul in one of the most iconic locations in the city.

With Questo, you can bring these stories to life. Follow a quest across Old Town Square, uncover the secrets of Kafka’s Prague, and see the city’s hidden history in a fun, interactive way.

👉 Download the Questo app today and transform your visit to The House at the Minute into an unforgettable adventure.