Kafka museum, Prague

I went to the Kafka museum with a certain reluctance, as I was not very sure what to expect. It turned out to be a surprising experience; this is not the typical bio-museum that shows original manuscripts and photos; the place is divided into evolving areas that deal with different aspects of Kafka’s writing, and create an atmosphere that, if you willingly suspend your disbelieve, will take you right down to his mind. Please take in mind that all this is created in an almost rudimentary way, do not expect amazing special effects; but it turns out to be just right. I came out feeling much more aware of Kafka’s world. It is worth a visit, if only to play around with the moving “peeing statues” in the fountain on the outside courtyard.

However depressing his work can be I’m still a big fan of Kafka and this museum gave me some interesting perspectives on his life and work - especially his troubled personal life.

It’s in a very accessible location and quite close to many other attractions so it’s easy to fit into even a packed itinerary. Recommended.

As I am not a real Kafka fan, this museum almost got overlooked. what a mistake it would have been. I asked what was in it and was told ‘oh, some photos… ’ and almost didn’t go again. Would have bought a couple of post cards and an edition of a Kafka work (although I have enough already), but something said oh why not, you’re here…

It was the right decision. This is one of the most education sites I’ve been to, and I do try to go to a lot. One has fun with the installation aspect, but also finds a lot to read about the life and times of this writer. The Czech ingenuity is at its finest with the odd telephones in the vault-like passageway, the dark drapings around portions of the exhibit, and the display of what might otherwise be a set of the women in Kafka’s life. Most of the time it felt like we were walking underground, in a crypt or similar space. That added to the atmosphere but did not distract from the good quantity of reading material available for visitors.

The museum could have been a mistake - too many words and fewer images, some kitsch installation techniques, some boring presentations of editions of books. None of that can be said to characterize it and it should be a required place for Prague visitors. Lots of history that goes beyond Kafka and his family and women.