Slovakia Bratislava Bratislava Museum

House at the Good Shepherd

About

Tucked beneath Bratislava Castle, the House at the Good Shepherd is a rare gem of Rococo architecture, built between 1760 and 1765 for a local merchant. Its narrow, trapezoidal façade and ornate details give it a fairy-tale charm, making it one of Central Europe’s most admired historic buildings. Today, it hosts the Museum of Clocks, showcasing timepieces from the late 17th to early 20th centuries. The collection includes mobile sundials, alarm clocks, and intricately crafted wall and wristwatches, many signed by Bratislava’s master clockmakers. Originally used for trade and living, the building was carefully restored in the 1970s to accommodate the museum, preserving its historical integrity while adapting the interior for exhibitions. Highlights include trompe l’oeil window paintings and the symbolic statue of the Good Shepherd. This museum offers a quiet yet captivating journey through the artistry of timekeeping, set within one of Bratislava’s most picturesque historic houses.

Bratislava Slovakia

Location

The House at the Good Shepherd, home to the Museum of Clocks in Bratislava, is situated at Židovská Street No. 1 in the historic Old Town area beneath Bratislava Castle. Constructed between 1760 and 1765 by master mason Matej Hollrigl, this narrow Rococo-style townhouse is one of the few original buildings surviving from the former Jewish quarter, which was largely demolished in the 20th century. The museum showcases an extensive collection of antique clocks from the 17th to early 20th centuries, with a special emphasis on 18th- and 19th-century timepieces crafted by Bratislava’s master clockmakers. The building's cellars and ground floor historically served commercial and craft uses, while the upper floors were residential. Nearby landmarks include the imposing Bratislava Castle just uphill, the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral across the street, and the Old Town’s charming streets filled with cafés and cultural sites. The location blends architectural heritage and cultural vibrancy, making it a captivating stop for visitors interested in history, art, and craftsmanship within Bratislava’s urban fabric.