About Caruso
Discover the History Behind Hotel Caruso
Hotel Caruso is more than just a boutique hotel in Prague—it's a place where centuries of history and culture come together in a beautifully restored Art Nouveau building in the heart of the city’s Old Town.
Located at the corner of U Milosrdných Street, house No. 867/2 has a rich and storied past. The earliest record of this site dates back to 1594, when it was known as “At Beran”, named after baker Jakub Beran. The street name, “At the Merciful”, refers to the nearby monasteries of Saint Agnes and the Holy Cross, established in 1234 and 1256, as well as a hospital founded in 1357.
This area is part of Prague’s historic Jewish Quarter, which dates back to the 11th century. In 1850, it was renamed Josefov, in honor of Emperor Joseph II, who introduced reforms that significantly improved the lives of Prague's Jewish community.
Throughout the centuries, house No. 867/2 and its various owners have played a meaningful role in Bohemia’s history. One notable resident was Nathanael Vodňanský, a leader of the Bohemian Revolt against Emperor Ferdinand II. After the Czech Protestants were defeated at the Battle of White Mountain in 1620, Vodňanský was executed at Old Town Square alongside 27 other Czech nobles and citizens.
In 1893, the original building was demolished during a street redevelopment. The current structure was completed in 1908, designed in the elegant Art Nouveau style. The hotel’s interior is inspired by the world of Alphonse Mucha, the renowned Czech artist and contemporary of Enrico Caruso, after whom the hotel is named.
Today, Hotel Caruso welcomes guests to a unique atmosphere filled with original artwork, historic frescoes, stained glass windows, Bohemian crystal, and antique furnishings. This artistic legacy also honors the connection between Enrico Caruso and Czech opera legend Emma Destinnová, whose duet performances in Prague remain legendary. Destinnová, now featured on the 2,000 CZK banknote, later wrote of her cherished memories singing with the great Caruso.
Whether you're drawn by the art, architecture, or deep cultural heritage, Hotel Caruso offers a truly timeless Prague experience.
