The name of this house dates back to the Middle Ages. Back then, many residents of Prague, believing in various myths and legends, made remedies from frogs' legs, ground spider powder, and many other substances unusual to us, convinced of the healing power of certain animals. The mysterious white unicorn, which according to legend roamed the eastern forests, seemed to them almost a panacea.
The unicorn's horn supposedly cured many illnesses, including sexual disorders. Local enterprising apothecaries skillfully used this tale to their advantage, calling their establishments 'Houses at the White Unicorn.' Naturally, trusting people went to such pharmacies firmly convinced of a miraculous cure.
Since then, such houses have acquired a special aura. House number 17 on Old Town Square was built as early as the 15th century. Combining various architectural styles such as the Renaissance, Romanesque Gothic, and Classicism, and having the highest gable among the houses on the square, the House 'At the White Unicorn' has long been considered the flagship among its kind. And it alone has preserved to this day a sign depicting a unicorn.
In addition, the house became famous because the renowned Czech opera singer Josefina Dushkova was born here and was friends with Mozart himself, who, incidentally, visited this house many times.
Also, at the beginning of the 20th century, Albert Einstein lived here and often arranged meetings in this house with various famous people, in particular Franz Kafka.
