Faust House on Charles Square in Prague, historic building facade

Faust House (Prague)

Faust House Prague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Prague’s New Town, the Faust House (Faustův dům) stands as one of the city’s most enigmatic and historically layered landmarks. With a striking Baroque façade overlooking Charles Square (Karlovo náměstí), the house is renowned for its centuries-old legends, alchemical history, and eccentric inhabitants. Though the building’s interior is largely inaccessible due to its current use by Charles University’s Faculty of Medicine, its exterior and storied past continue to captivate historians, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers from around the world (Radio Prague International; Prague.cz; Atlas Obscura).

This guide offers a comprehensive look at Faust House: tracing its history from pagan roots to Baroque grandeur, exploring the legends that surround it, and providing essential visitor information regarding hours, tickets, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit.

Faust House, historic building in Charles Square, Prague, winter view

Historic engraving of Mladotovský Palace from Sadeler's Prospect

Faust's house on Karlovo náměstí in Prague

Faust's house at Karlovo naměstí in Prague historic city center

Historical Overview of Faust House

Early Origins and Medieval Foundations

The site of Faust House has roots that extend deep into Prague’s past. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was significant even in early Slavic times, possibly serving as a place for pagan rituals related to the goddess Morana. The street “Na Moráni” nearby hints at these ancient associations (Radio Prague International).

The first written records date to the late 14th century, when the property—then known as the “Opavský House”—was owned by the Opava princes. Its strategic location on a major trade route made it highly desirable. The original structure included fortified elements such as a tower and defensive loopholes (Charles University).

Renaissance and Alchemical Associations

In the 15th and 16th centuries, the house’s reputation grew as it became associated with alchemy and esoteric sciences. Notable residents included Duke Wenceslaus II of Opavia, an alchemy enthusiast, and later, the infamous English alchemist Edward Kelley, a confidante of Emperor Rudolf II. Kelley’s presence cemented the Faust House’s link to Prague’s “alchemy golden age” (Prague Here; Prague Guide).

Architecturally, the Renaissance era saw the incorporation of new vaults and masonry, much of which remains visible today (Radio Prague International). Later, Ferdinand Antonín Mladota of Solopysky, a scientist and amateur chemist, lived here and was known for his explosive experiments and fascination with automata (Mysterium Tours).

Baroque Transformation and Eccentric Residents

In the 18th century, the renowned architects F.M. Kaňka and K.A. Schmidt reimagined the mansion in the Baroque style, giving it the faded red-and-grey façade and the ornate Dientzenhofer Gate that are still visible today (Charles University). The 19th and 20th centuries brought eccentric tenants, including Karel Jaenig, a parson with a morbid fascination for death, who decorated the house with funerary texts and slept in a coffin (Mysterium Tours).

The Faustian Legend and Folklore

The house’s name comes not from a real-life Dr. Faust, but from Romantic-era legends inspired by its history of alchemy and strange happenings. Tales tell of the scholar Faust making a pact with the Devil and being dragged to hell through a mysterious, uncloseable hole in the ceiling—a portal that defied all attempts to seal it (Prague.cz; ViewPrague).

Other stories include the tale of the poor student who vanished after dabbling in magic at the house, and unexplained phenomena such as fires and mysterious marks on the walls (Prague.cz).

Twentieth Century to Present

Faust House survived bombings in World War II and has undergone several restorations. Today, it is owned by Charles University and houses the Medical Faculty’s offices and club. Occasional renovations have revealed ritual objects such as cat skeletons and children’s shoes, believed to ward off evil (Prague Here).

Architectural Features and Symbolism

Faust House is a study in Prague’s architectural evolution:

Gothic cellars and foundations: Remnants of the original medieval structure.
Renaissance vaults and masonry: Preserved elements from the 16th century.
Baroque façade and Dientzenhofer Gate: The most visible features, with ornate stucco, sculpted window frames, and a grand entrance.
Alchemical and occult symbolism: Motifs such as serpents, suns, and stars in ironwork and stucco, reflecting the interests of former residents (Atlas Obscura).

The building’s imposing presence and decorative details contribute to its reputation as a “house of mysteries.”

Legends and Mystique

Doctor Faustus and the Devil

The most enduring legend claims that Dr. Faust, in pursuit of forbidden knowledge, made a pact with the Devil and was seized through a hole in the ceiling—a hole that persistently reappears despite all efforts to close it (Prague.cz).

The Disappearing Student

A student seeking refuge in the house found magical books and coins, used the knowledge for wealth, but vanished mysteriously—reinforcing the dangers of dabbling in the occult (Prague.cz).

Pagan and Alchemical Roots

The site’s pagan past and the presence of legendary alchemists have fostered tales of supernatural happenings, from unexplained fires to ritual animal burials, including seven cat skeletons discovered during renovations (Prague.cz).

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: Karlovo náměstí 502/40, 128 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic
Nearest Metro: Karlovo náměstí (Line B)
Trams: Lines 3, 4, 6, 10, 16, 18, 22, 24 stop at Karlovo náměstí
Wheelchair Access: The exterior is accessible; interior access is very limited (InTravel)

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Regular Access: The interior is not open to the public due to university use.
Façade Viewing: Exterior can be admired at any time from Charles Square.
Special Events: The main opportunity to enter is during the annual Open House Prague festival, generally held in late spring or early summer. Entry is free during these events, usually on a first-come, first-served basis. No standard tickets are sold (Radio Prague International).

Guided Tours and Events

Open House Prague: Check the official website for dates and details. Guided tours are available in English and Czech during the event.
Other Tours: Some city walks may include the exterior as a highlight on New Town routes.

Photography Tips

Best lighting is in the early morning or late afternoon.
Exterior photos are encouraged; interior photography is permitted only during special events with guide approval.

Practical Tips

Arrive Early: Queues for Open House Prague can be long.
Use the Festival App: For real-time updates on wait times and schedules.
Accessibility: Some areas, especially cellars and upper floors, may not be accessible to those with limited mobility.
Etiquette: Respect the building’s historic status and follow all guide instructions during tours.

Nearby Attractions

Church of St. Ignatius: Baroque masterpiece across the square.
Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science: A peaceful urban oasis.
Antonín Dvořák Museum: Dedicated to the famous Czech composer.
Emmaus Monastery: Another significant Baroque site (Prague Tourist Information).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I visit Faust House any time?
A: The interior is closed except during special events like Open House Prague. The façade is always viewable.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Entry is free during Open House Prague. No regular tickets are available.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, during special events. Otherwise, only the exterior can be seen on guided city walks.

Q: Is Faust House accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The building’s exterior is accessible, but interior access is limited and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

How to Stay Updated

Consult the Open House Prague website for event schedules.
Visit Prague City Tourism for general updates.
Follow relevant organizations and tourism boards on social media.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

Faust House is a must-see for anyone interested in Prague’s historical and architectural heritage. While the interior is rarely open, the building’s façade, rich legends, and convenient location make it a highlight of any New Town visit. For those seeking a deeper experience, time your trip with the Open House Prague festival when the house opens its doors to the public (Open House Prague; InTravel). Don’t forget to explore nearby sites and capture the unique atmosphere of Charles Square.

For up-to-date visiting information, guided tour schedules, and insider tips, consider downloading the Audiala app. Stay connected through social media and local tourism resources for the latest news on Prague’s captivating landmarks.