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Unraveling the Mystery of Franz Kafka’s Rotating Head Statue
| Accessible to public transportation? Yes | Level of challenge: Low |
| Duration of excursion: Approximately 30 minutes | Type of outing: Attractions |
| Ease of access: Yes | Expense: No cost involved |
| Open in winter? Yes | Location: Prague 1 |
Have you ever heard of a giant rotating head sculpture that seems straight out of a fantastical story? Well, let us introduce you to Franz Kafka’s Rotating Head! This fascinating piece of art is located in Prague, Czech Republic, and it’s more than just a statue—it’s a puzzle that comes to life. (map)
Unraveling the Mystery of Franz Kafka’s Rotating Head Statue
Psst: Planning a trip to Prague? Here are some other posts:
The Ultimate Prague Itinerary (3, 4 or 5 Days)
The Guide to Petrin Hill
Best Parks in Prague
Pruhonice Park: A Magical Day Trip from Prague
What’s the Big Deal About Kafka’s Rotating Head?
Imagine a colossal head, standing tall at 11 meters, made entirely of shiny stainless steel. This masterpiece, created by artist David Czerny, weighs a jaw-dropping 39 tons!
But here’s the twist: it doesn’t just stand still. Every hour, for 15 minutes, the head’s 42 layers move in different directions, creating a mesmerizing and ever-changing display.
And guess what? Twice an hour, it returns to its original form, adding an extra element of intrigue.
A Peek into Kafka’s Mind
Franz Kafka, the writer behind the name, was known for his surreal and thought-provoking stories.
His work often delved into themes of existentialism and the complexities of the human mind.
The rotating head sculpture symbolizes Kafka’s intricate thoughts and ideas, offering a glimpse into the mind of this brilliant yet troubled writer.
READ MORE: The Ultimate Prague Itinerary (3, 4, or 5 Days)
Behind the Scenes of the Sculpture
Crafted in 2014, the construction of Kafka’s Rotating Head was no small feat. It cost a whopping 30 million Czech crowns and required intricate engineering. Inside the head, there are over 1 kilometer of cables and 21 motors, all working together to bring the sculpture to life.
When?
If you’re planning a visit, timing is key. The head moves every hour between 8:00 to 21:00, with a break during the night.
To avoid crowds and get the best view, aim to arrive about 15 minutes after every hour or wait until the show is over.
Location
The location is behind the Quadrio Shopping Center on Narodni Trida, easily accessible by subway or tram.
Final Thoughts
Franz Kafka’s Rotating Head is not just a sculpture—it’s a captivating experience that offers a glimpse into the mind of one of history’s most enigmatic writers.
So, next time you’re in Prague, don’t miss the chance to unravel the mystery of Kafka’s rotating head puzzle!
Checklist Before the Flight:
- Air Ticket or Train Ticket to Prague: Ensure you have your travel tickets booked and ready. Find your next flight by Kiwi or Agoda.
- Book your accommodation in advance, preferably in Prague 1.
- Consider purchasing an eSIM card for easy internet access, using the Airalo app.
- Download Applications for Easy Mobility: BOLT for taxis and the PID public transport card application.
- Buy tickets to Popular Attractions in advance to avoid queues at major attractions.
- If you plan to explore out of Prague, consider renting a car for easy mobility.
What questions can I answer? Let me know below!
