PRAHA 1 WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Walking with a Plague Doctor: A Live, Street‑Level Return to 18th‑Century Prague
A 1 hour 30 minute interactive walking tour in Praha 1 led by the plague doctor reenactor A. Schamsky, tracing plague-era sites from the House of the Golden Well to the Convent of St. Agnes.
Walking with a Plague Doctor: A Live, Street‑Level Return to 18th‑Century Prague.
Step into the cramped lanes and grand squares of Old Town Prague with a personal plague doctor, A. Schamsky, and confront the facts and folklore of the Black Death. This live, interactive walk moves through hidden gems and major sites — including the old St. Francis Hospital and the Convent of St. Agnes — and delivers a measured, often grim account of how Prague faced pneumonic and bubonic outbreaks in the 18th century.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
House of the Golden Well & the Plague Doctor's Introduction
At the starting point — the House of the Golden Well — the plague doctor A. Schamsky introduces the tour, situating visitors in 1715 and explaining the saints, beliefs and early theories Prague residents held about the plague.
St. Francis Hospital — Treatment and Unsung Heroes
A stop at the old hospital 'Na Františku' examines period healing methods, the medical background of the disease and the lesser‑known practitioners who worked there during plague outbreaks.
Convent of St. Agnes — Summary and Final Reflections
The tour concludes at the hidden monastery of St. Agnes of Bohemia, where visitors receive a summary of plague times in Prague and Europe, hear current‑status facts, and close with a group photograph with the plague doctor.
What the day feels like
What the Walk Feels Like
This is an intimate, theatrical walking tour that threads Old Town streets and landmark sites while a costumed plague doctor recounts medical realities, local stories and the social consequences of the Black Death. The guide mixes historical exposition with on‑route stops at key buildings and hidden corners, encouraging questions and close engagement with Prague’s layered past.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and the key participant limits to bear in mind.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear weather‑appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes for walking on cobbles; dress for the season.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Where do we meet?
Meeting is at the House of the 'Golden Well', Seminářská 2, near the Klementinum in Old Town (Praha 1).
What language is the tour conducted in?
The official title indicates the tour is offered in Czech.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is open to all ages, but note that content covers historical facts about plague and can be a bit scary.
How large are the groups?
Group size is limited to a maximum of 30 participants.
Will there be opportunities to ask questions?
Yes—the tour is interactive and the guide welcomes questions during the walk.