Hidden Alchemy Lab Discovered Beneath A Prague Shop
- Emily Expedition
- Sep 2, 2024
- 2 min read
BREWING UP HISTORY
Hidden beneath the streets of Prague lies a secret treasure that was uncovered quite unexpectedly in 2002—a fully intact 16th-century alchemical laboratory. The discovery was made during renovations following a flood, revealing a network of hidden chambers underneath a shop now known as the Speculum Alchemiae. This historical site offers a fascinating glimpse into the mysterious world of alchemy and the ambitions of Emperor Rudolf II, who was obsessed with the occult sciences and sought the philosopher's stone and elixirs of immortality right here in Prague.
THE LAB’S MYSTERIOUS UNDERGROUND NETWORK
The Speculum Alchemiae, or "Mirror of Alchemy," is located in one of Prague's oldest buildings. These underground alchemy labs were set up during the time of Emperor Rudolf II, who was fascinated by alchemy and the occult. Under his rule, Prague became a hotspot for alchemists, including famous figures like John Dee and Edward Kelley from England. Rudolf was determined to discover the secrets of alchemy, especially how to turn ordinary metals into gold and create potions for eternal life.
The labs were hidden underground because the Catholic Church frowned upon alchemy, viewing it as suspicious or even dangerous. The location in Prague's Jewish Quarter was chosen because it was less likely to attract the church's attention, allowing alchemists to work more freely. There are even legends that the hidden rooms were once connected to Prague Castle by secret tunnels, providing a quick escape route if needed.
WHAT’S INSIDE THE ALCHEMISTS’ LAIR?
Visitors to Speculum Alchemiae can explore reconstructed rooms that replicate the original alchemical setup from the 16th century. The tour begins in a quaint parlour filled with period artifacts—though many are replicas, some original items, like a bottle believed to contain an "Elixir of Eternal Youth," are displayed in glass cases. A hidden door in the bookshelf adds an element of surprise, leading down a narrow staircase to the underground chambers where alchemists once worked tirelessly.
The lab consists of multiple rooms, including a glass-blowing chamber, storage rooms, and a space dedicated to the pursuit of the philosopher’s stone. One room still features a furnace and ventilation shafts, key components for conducting alchemical experiments. Artifacts such as broken glassworks and a mummified crocodile were discovered during the site’s excavation, adding a touch of authenticity to the otherwise reconstructed environment.
VISITING THE SPECULUM ALCHEMIAE
The Speculum Alchemiae Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, and guided tours run every half hour, lasting about 30 minutes. Tickets are reasonably priced, with adult admission costing 200 CZK (approximately $9 USD). However, due to the spiral staircase leading down to the chambers, the museum is not wheelchair accessible. It is located at Haštalská 1 in Prague's Old Town, just a short walk from the Old Town Square, making it a convenient stop on a tour of the city’s historical sites.
For more information on the Speculum Alchemiae and to book your visit, you can check out their official website or visit them in person for a truly magical experience beneath the streets of Prague.
HAPPY ADVENTURING
-Emily
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