Bel nu
The history of house number 14, where the Santini Residence is currently situated, dates back to the 17th century. Valkounský house no. 14 is named after the owner, Knight Bohuchval Valkoun from Adlar, from the beginning of the 17th century.
According to an early Baroque project of Kryštof Dientzenhofer, the house was rebuilt in the 16th century, as all the neighbouring houses were just after the fire of 1541.
In 1601 it was bought by Kašpar, brother of Kaplí? from Sulevice, who was executed on the Old Town Square.
The house acquired its Baroque shape during 1705 – 1727, when it was owned by a famous baroque architect, Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel. However, when Santini died, a renowned goldsmith, Diesbach, bought the house in an auction and built up the third floor.
Of interest to the keen eye may be the exquisite details such as a Medusa relief over the left entrance, a cartouche and a small head next to it beyond the right entrance, an oval cartouche with a painting of Virgin Mary and the Holy Trinity above the second floor windows or the functional sun dial placed on the façade in the inner block.
This town house served its tenants until 2002, when it was closed. At the same time, very sensitive reconstruction of the whole property came underway, thanks to which, you have the opportunity to admire authentic wooden ceilings, ribbed vaults, wall fresco paintings and an original porcelain stove.
It is situated in one of the most picturesque streets of the city and is within walking distance to all the major attractions, such as the Prague Castle and the well-known Charles bridge, to mention but a few. The building of the Residence itself dates back to the 17th century but is so expertly preserved and restored that even nowadays you can admire exquisitely painted ceilings, wooden joists and original arches.
