The passage leads from Pohořelec (house No. 147/8) directly into the courtyard of the Strahov Monastery, the heart of the Premonstratensian canonry. It is a historic side entrance that was already in use in the 16th century.
Pohořelec 147/8 – Courtyard of the Strahov Monastery, Prague 1 – Hradčany
The passage leads from Pohořelec (house No. 147/8) directly into the courtyard of the Strahov Monastery, the heart of the Premonstratensian canonry. It is a historic side entrance that was already in use in the 16th century.
The House At the Golden Tree is a distinctive burgher house on the northern side of Pohořelec, with a history dating back to the late 16th century. The original Renaissance structure was gradually rebuilt—first around 1675, and later at the end of the 18th century, when it acquired its Baroque character. The façade still clearly reflects this evolution: the older sections are highlighted in red, while the later extension with its massive triangular gable appears more robust and less refined.
The most valuable feature of the house is the high Baroque stone portal from the first half of the 18th century, framing the entrance to the Strahov canonry. Above it sits a restored bust of Abbot Marián Herman with the monastery’s coat of arms, created around 1741, probably by Jan Antonín Quitainer. This entrance is documented as early as the 16th century and ranks among the oldest surviving access points to the monastic complex.
The interior of the house preserves Renaissance and early Baroque vaults, a spiral staircase with stone steps, and several surviving Baroque doorways. The upper floors bear traces of Classicist alterations, particularly the characteristic coved ceilings.
Today, the passage through the House At the Golden Tree is one of the most impressive entrances to the Strahov Monastery. Within just a few steps, you leave the busy Pohořelec behind and find yourself in the quiet monastery courtyard, where the city’s bustle gives way to the atmosphere of Hradčany’s spiritual center.
The Baroque gate, stone portal and historic paving create an authentic ambience preserved in only a few places in Prague. The passage is used by visitors heading to the Strahov Library, the viewpoint above Petřín, or further on toward Loreta.
The House At the Golden Tree is a beautiful example of how historic buildings can still fulfil their original purpose — connecting the city, opening pathways and offering visitors a unique experience. The passage links Pohořelec with the monastic heart of Strahov and ranks among the most picturesque spots in the entire area.
