Prague, 19. 8. 2012
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History of the Alchymist Residence Nosticova

The earliest records of the Alchymist Residence Nosticova, also known as Residence Nosticova Prague, date back to 1658, although the reason it was built goes as far back as 1522. At that time the Lesser Town council decided to divide the land of the Lazarovska Gardens, built on the grounds of the Maltese Monastery of the Mother of God and the Monastery of the Infant Jesus of Prague, into smaller plots and estates. At that time a single storey house was built and many of its original features, such as the arched ceilings, timberwork and fragments of stone entrance have been preserved till today. 

Over the centuries the Residence Nosticova has undergone numerous extensions and renovations and it has had many owners. For example   Jan Josef Schifl, who bought the Nosticova residence in 1731, so for some time the residence was known as the Schifl House. Historical records tell us that after 1814 the Residence Nosticova already had three floors and boasted decorated supporting pillars, which were unfortunately destroyed over the course of time. We also have a note providing us with a detailed description of the residence in 1865 when it consisted of four apartments, five rooms and a hall. The interior walls were apparently made of wood and the apartments were accessed via an exterior corridor and a porch.

The Langwel model of Prague shows the Residence Nosticova and so we know that between1826 - 1837 the facade of the building facing Hallichova Street was renovated and made more attractive. It was topped with a mansard roof and two dormer windows. The facade facing Nosticova Street remained unchanged with its five floors and three dormer windows.

The residence was returned to its original glory thanks to the love and devotion of its present Italian owner, Giorgio Bonelli, who has spent much energy and money to recreate the historical charm of this now truly amazing boutique hotel in the centre of Prague.