House of the Black Madonna
The earliest example of cubist architecture in Prague
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The House of the Black Madonna (Dům U černé Matky Boží) is one of those places in Prague where you don’t just tick off a sight – you step into a whole design movement. Standing on the corner of Celetná Street and Ovocný trh in the Old Town, it’s considered the first true Cubist building in Prague, designed in 1911–12 by the young architect Josef Gočár.
From the street, the house is all sharp lines and angular bay windows, yet it still respects its Baroque neighbours. The name comes from a 17th-century statue of a Black Madonna mounted on the corner, salvaged from an older building that once stood here.
Inside, it’s worth taking your time. On the upper floors you’ll find the Museum of Czech Cubism, run by the Museum of Decorative Arts, with furniture, ceramics, glass and art that show how deeply Cubism took root in everyday Czech design. Temporary exhibitions and events often add a contemporary angle.
Most visitors, though, are drawn first to Grand Café Orient on the first floor, often described as the only surviving Cubist café in the world. The staircase, light fittings and recreated furniture all follow Cubist geometry, so you’re literally drinking coffee inside the style. It’s a lovely spot for an afternoon cake or a slow breakfast above the Old Town crowds.
If you’re walking between Powder Tower and Old Town Square, it’s an easy and very worthwhile stop – especially if you enjoy architecture, design, or just a good coffee in a memorable setting.
Essential Information
Ovocný trh 19, 110 00, Staré Město, Praha 1
Hours: Mon closed, Tue 10am-8pm, Wed-Sun 10am-8pm (museum hours, cafe hours vary)
Tickets: 150 CZK / 80 CZK Concessions (museum)
Transport: Náměstí Republiky, Prague Metro
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