Entering one of the main houses, you will find a long corridor leading upstairs. It also leads to the cells that were the prison for many years. Medieval instruments of torture and execution can also be seen here. The ancient armour of knights and the clothes of the nobility are also displayed in this northern part of the castle walls.
Surrounded by the magnificent and dominant White and Dalibor Towers, the Golden Lane is discreetly protected by the castle walls. Zlatá ulička was built in 1597 to house the archers of the castle.
Prior to WWII, there were houses here which lacked essential amenities. Franz Kafka, the famous writer, lived here from 1916 to 1917. Unlike the rest of the castle grounds, visitors have to pay to enter this street. The street is lined with 11 old houses that have been converted into souvenir shops.
The former alchemists' dwellings from the 16th and 17th centuries currently have become a tranquil, modest street with a beautiful view. Emperor Rudolf was a big fan of alchemy, and during his reign, he invited some well-known alchemists, such as Englishmen John Dee and Edward Kellis. Despite being the emperor, Rudolf frequently suffered from anxiety, mild insanity, and other mental illnesses. This could explain his strong interest in the ancient mystical art of alchemy. Alchemy was essentially an attempt to apply scientific principles to magic, with the primary objectives of transforming metals into gold and uncovering the secret to eternal life.
In addition to its association with alchemy, the Golden Lane derives its name from the goldsmiths who lived there. Empress Maria Theresa is responsible for much of the splendor of this tiny street. She directed that all of the decaying houses on the block be rebuilt with new structures made of better materials. During the nineteenth century, this street became popular with artists and other creative people. This street was home to several great people, including Franz Kafka and the poet Jaroslav Seifert. In essence, the Golden alley is a spot that has been turned from a run-down alley into a lovely street that is now a tourist destination.
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