Celetná

"Celetná Street, formerly known as Caletná, is one of Prague's oldest trade routes, with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The street derives its name from "calta," a type of bread that was baked in the area. By the 14th century, Celetná became part of the prestigious Royal Route, used for coronation parades. Over the centuries, it has remained a key artery in the city's historical and cultural landscape. The street has been home to many significant buildings and notable figures. The Knights Templar once held meetings at No. 27, and after their dissolution in 1312, secret gatherings continued in the building's basement. Celetná also has ties to Franz Kafka, who worked as a lawyer at Pachta Palace (No. 36), the former headquarters of the Prague Military Commandment. Kafka lived at Sixt House (No. 2) from 1888 to 1889 and later at "At the Three Kings" (No. 3) from 1896 to 1907. Mozart stayed at "At the Golden Angel" (No. 29), which was once an inn, and Karel Hynek Mácha, a famed Czech poet, frequented "At the Red Eagle" (No. 21), a former café. The street even features in Jorge Luis Borges' short story "The Secret Miracle," where the protagonist, Jaromir Hladik, resides on Celetná during March 1939. Additionally, Giovanni Battista Alliprandi designed the Hrzan of Harasov Palace (No. 12), showcasing the street's architectural grandeur."

"Celetná Street is an important street in Prague that leads through the Old Town of Prague from the Old Town Square to the former King's Court (today the Municipal House stands here) to Prašná Brána. This is the first part of the Royal Route leading to the Prague Castle. The street is approximately 400 meters long. Nowadays there are many souvenir shops. "