Franz Kafka was born in Prague in 1883 in a home near Maiselova and Kaprova, next to the St. Nicholas Church. The townhouse was torn down long ago, and today the site is commemorated with a simple informational plaque and bust. The World of Franz Kafka exhibition occupies a 12th-century underground hall nearby, with a collection of Kafka-inspired paintings and video installations that leads visitors into the surreal and absurdist worldview of one of the greatest writers of the 20th century.
Franz Kafka’s Birthplace and nearby World of Franz Kafka exhibition are located on Náměstí Franze Kafky (Franz Kafka Square) in the Staré Město old town of Prague, a short walk from many of the city’s main sights. The square is also near Prague’s historic Jewish Quarter (Josefov), and a visit here is often included in Jewish history walking tours.
The outdoor plaque and bust marking Franz Kafka’s Birthplace can be visited any time, day or night; the World of Franz Kafka is open from 11am to 7pm. The lively square on which they are both located has several outdoor restaurants and cafès, so time your visit with lunch or dinner for an al fresco meal.
Kafka’s life and work are interwoven with the city of Prague, and several landmarks pay homage to his legacy. In addition to his birthplace and the World of Kafka exhibition, the city is home to the Kafka Museum and its collection of original photographs, letters, documents, and first-edition books. You can also visit Kafka’s final resting place in Prague’s New Jewish Cemetery.
