House at the Golden Ring, Prague

Located in the Old Town, the House at the Golden Ring is a captivating destination worth exploring. This charming Renaissance building stands on the site of two medieval houses and retains a Gothic portal, offering a glimpse into Prague's rich architectural heritage. The cellars and ground floor showcase original features and barrel vaulting, while remnants of 15th-century paintings can be observed on ground floor corridor.

Today, it is part of the Prague City Museum and hosts a permanent exhibition featuring 20th-century Czech art, including paintings and sculptures with a strong emphasis on surrealism and symbolism. Here you can marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists such as Toyen, Josef Šíma, and Jan Zrzavý.

Additionally, the museum presents temporary exhibitions that provide in-depth insights into individual artists or art movements throughout history. The curated display of paintings and sculptures is organized thematically rather than by artist, offering a unique perspective for visitors. For those interested in further exploration, a reading room is available, stocked with catalogues and publications about the featured artists.

Many buildings in Prague derive their names from house signs, and the House at the Golden Ring is no exception. According to local folklore, a ghost once lost his gold ring during a night of revelry with fellow spirits. A burgher discovered the ring and affixed it to his gate as a talisman to ward off evil, giving rise to the building's distinctive name and legend.