Nový svět: Peaceful refuge just off Prague Castle
Just a few steps away from Prague Castle and the grand palaces of Hradčany, Nový Svět (The New World) feels like a secret passage into a quieter, almost forgotten part of the city. With its winding cobbled streets, historic houses, and an atmosphere steeped in mystery, this charming quarter has long been a refuge for artists, writers, and dreamers — an off-the-beaten-path gem waiting to be discovered.
A Step Away from the Crowds
At first glance, it may seem odd to start exploring an off-the-beaten-track location near a famous landmark like Loreta, the Baroque pilgrimage site with its famous carillon bells. But just a short walk downhill from Loreta Square, Prague’s bustling tourist atmosphere gives way to the hushed charm of Nový Svět. Tucked beneath the towering walls of the Černín Palace Gardens, this small district remains remarkably quiet, even in the height of summer.
Unlike the grand Baroque and Gothic buildings surrounding Prague Castle, Nový Svět’s character comes from its small houses, picturesque alleys, and an almost village-like atmosphere. This area was once home to craftsmen, servants, and lower-ranking palace workers, and while its buildings may be modest compared to the palatial residences nearby, they are steeped in history.
Legends, Writers, and Bohemians
Nový Svět has long attracted enigmatic figures. The Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe, a key figure in early modern science, is said to have lived here. In the 19th century, Jan Neruda wrote about the quarter’s charm, while Jakub Arbes even set one of his "romaneta" stories in these streets.
In the 20th century, Arnošt Lustig and Ota Pavel, two of the most beloved Czech writers, briefly owned a house here. But their time in Nový Svět was bittersweet—Lustig went into exile after 1968, and Pavel struggled with mental illness until his untimely death.
Several renowned filmmakers and artists have also been drawn to the area. The legendary surrealist director Jan Švankmajer still lives and works in a house on Černínská Street. Nearby, Karel Kachyňa, director of Král Šumavy and Sestřičky, once called Nový Svět home. Across the street, Jan Zrzavý, one of the great Czech painters, had his very first studio here.
The Last Wooden House in Old Prague
One of the most striking sights in Nový Svět is the timbered cottage at No. 10, known as U Raka (The Crayfish). In a city dominated by stone and Baroque façades, this shingled-roof house, seemingly plucked from the countryside, is a true rarity. It is believed to be the last preserved timbered house in Prague’s historic center.
The cottage’s name comes from the Brusnice stream, which once ran freely here and was home to crayfish—hence U Raka. Today, the stream is underground, but the name remains. The house has its own literary connection: Jakub Arbes once fell in love with a seamstress who lived here, leading to a complicated but ultimately happy love story.
Now operating as a boutique hotel, U Raka also has a small café where visitors can stop for refreshments. While Nový Svět may be off the beaten track, the prices at this so-called "romantic hotel" are definitely not—they match the rates of the upscale areas around Prague Castle.
A Street Lit by Gas Lanterns Until the 1980s
Another interesting detail about Nový Svět is that it was one of the last places in Prague where gas street lamps were still in use—right up until the 1980s. While the lanterns now run on electricity, they preserve the historical charm of the quarter, casting a warm glow over the cobblestone streets in the evening.
An Escape into Another Time
At the end of Nový Svět Street, a small square opens up, offering a view of baroque fortress walls — a reminder that this was once the very edge of historic Prague. Standing here, it's easy to imagine how different life must have been for the people who once walked these streets.
Whether you’re a history lover, a literary enthusiast, or just someone seeking a peaceful retreat from the tourist crowds, Nový Svět is a place where Prague’s past lingers in every quiet corner. Just steps from the grandeur of Hradčany, it remains an untouched, almost secret part of the city — an invitation to slow down, wander, and discover a different side of Prague.
Nový Svět Fact Box
- 14th century: The area was first settled as a modest district for castle servants, craftsmen, and lower-ranking palace workers.
- 16th–17th century: Nový Svět saw the construction of small houses, many of which still stand today. The nearby Loreta pilgrimage site was founded in 1626.
- 1757: The Prussian army bombarded Prague, heavily damaging the Capuchin Monastery, which later became a prison during both WWII and the communist era.
- 19th century: The quarter inspired writers like Jan Neruda and Jakub Arbes, who featured it in their works.
- 20th century: Nový Svět became home to artists, filmmakers, and bohemians, including Jan Zrzavý, Karel Kachyňa, and Jan Švankmajer. Writers Arnošt Lustig and Ota Pavel briefly owned a house here.
- 1980s: Nový Svět was one of the last places in Prague to use gas street lighting before switching to electricity.
- Today: A peaceful retreat just steps from Prague Castle, Nový Svět retains its historical charm, featuring cobbled streets, timbered houses, and quiet cafés like the boutique hotel U Raka.
How to get there
- Short walk from Prague Castle
- Trams: 22, 23 (Pohořelec)
- Closest metro stations: Hradčanská (1,6 km), Malostranská (1,8 km via Prague Castle)
- Note: you can take a tram 22 or 23 from Malostranská if you do not want to walk uphill via Prague Castle or Malá strana
