History of the House of the Black Bear
Located just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Old Town Square, you’ll find the charming Beer Restaurant At the Black Bear nestled in the historic Týn courtyard. This courtyard, dating back to the 11th century, was once a fortified merchant’s court known as Ungelt.
It served as a haven for traders and their valuable goods, protected by a moat and towering walls. Within its walls, you would find storehouses, stables, dwellings, and even one of Prague’s oldest hospitals. The magnificent Church of the Virgin Mary, which stood in the same spot where the Týn Church now stands, was also a prominent feature of this bustling court.
The merchant wagons that arrived from all corners of the world brought with them a treasure trove of goods. The merchant court’s registers documented a wide array of items, including metals, minerals, tools, fabrics, furs, carpets, livestock, and an abundance of culinary delights.
The court’s cafe, U Komárků, was a meeting place for influential figures in Czech history, such as Josef Kajetán Tyl, František Palacký, Pavel Josef Šafařík, and František Ladislav Rieger.
Ungelt experienced its golden age under the reigns of Charles IV and Wenceslaus IV. Buyers flocked to this vibrant court, many choosing to settle here permanently. The courtyard earned the nickname “Merry Court” (Laeta curia) due to the lively celebrations and captivating tales shared by the merchants. Even today, the spirit of merriment can still be felt in the air.
While savoring our delicious Czech cuisine and refreshing beers at Beer Restaurant At the Black Bear, take a moment to imagine the bustling activity that once filled this historic courtyard. Picture the merchants haggling over prices, the clatter of horses’ hooves on the cobblestone streets, and the aroma of spices and goods wafting through the air.
Dating back to as early as 1428, the renowned establishment known as The House At the Black Bear has a rich history. Its name is derived from the captivating statue of a black bear in chains, proudly displayed on the corner of the building.
During the early 20th century, this very house was famously recognized as the “Tunel” a vibrant night cafe that strictly prohibited entry to soldiers from the Prague garrison. The cafe’s notoriety extended beyond its walls and found its way into literature, even being mentioned by the beloved character, the good soldier Švejk.
In the 1980s, the house underwent a transformation and emerged as a charming hotel. Today, this very hotel proudly stands as the first Women Only Hostel in Prague, offering women from all corners of the globe a warm and secure environment filled with friendship.
Visit us and indulge in a delightful choice of Czech specialties, accompanied by a wide selection of beers, wines, and other traditional Czech alcoholic beverages and allow the history of this remarkable courtyard, which was only opened to the public in 1996, breathe in on you.
