Bridge Street (Mostecka), Prague

Passing through the arch connecting the Lesser Town Bridge Towers, you'll step into Mostecká ("Bridge") Street. Flanked by vibrant, gabled Renaissance, Baroque, and sometimes Rococo facades, dating from the 14th to 18th centuries, this narrow cobblestone lane has stood for 750 years, seamlessly linking Charles Bridge to The Lesser Town Square. Some of the facades still carry original decorations, including a chained bear at No. 4, the bust of cellist Zelenka, a striking bronze door at No. 17, three goats at No. 18, and more. With all its curious beauty, it's no wonder that this street once served as a route for royal processions during coronations.

Standing on the Lesser Town ("Malá Strana") side, just beyond the towers, you'll notice a house painted with three ostriches on the right. This Renaissance-style building, now a hotel, was once the residence of Jan Fux, a feather merchant and fashion purveyor who specialized in ostrich plumes and other prized bird feathers—highly fashionable accessories of the era used for decorating ladies' hats, courtiers' and officers' headwear, horse trappings, fans, and various garments. In 1606, Fux commissioned an artists to paint the bold ostrich advertisement on the facade, promoting his extravagant feather business.

Continuing your leisurely stroll along the street, be sure to admire the Gothic tower tucked within the courtyard of "At the Three Golden Bells", the opulent sculptural embellishments of the "At the Black Eagle" house, complete with its magnificent Baroque wrought-iron grille, and marvel at the ornate pink and yellow Rococo facade of the Kounic Palace.

Pro Tip:
Explore the boutique shops, restaurants, and bars lining the lower part of the street, all catering to the stream of passersby. For a delightful refueling break, indulge in craft beer and cake at the charming, family-run ROESEL café housed in a historic building. Don't miss the mini-exhibition on your way in, and be sure to explore the lovely courtyard. They also offer daily lunch and dinner specials.