Kinsky Palace, Prague

Occupying the site of three medieval dwellings, the Kinský Palace is a most exuberant example of late-Baroque architecture, boasting an exquisite pink-and-white Rococo façade adorned with symbolic sculptures representing the four Elements and ancient deities. Its presence significantly enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Old Town Square.

Constructed in the mid-18th century, the palace once housed a German grammar school at its rear, where a young Franz Kafka endured nine tumultuous years of education between 1893 and 1901, while his father, Hermann, operated a men's apparel shop on the ground floor.

A rather chilling historical episode unfolded on the palace's balcony in February 1948, as Communist leader Klement Gottwald, accompanied by party officials, addressed the hundreds of thousands of citizens gathered below. This marked the commencement of "Victorious February," the bloodless coup that propelled the Communists into power, shaping the country's destiny for the next four decades.

Presently, the palace serves as a venue for rotating temporary exhibitions, houses a shop, and offers educational programs.