In the Týn Church, right by the main altar, rests one of the greatest scholars of Rudolphine Prague—Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe. His tombstone, depicting the scholar in full armor with a globe and sextant, is revered not only by history lovers but also by those troubled by earthly ailments. Among Praguers, a curious prophecy has circulated for centuries: whoever touches the astronomer’s stone face on his tomb with respect and a quiet prayer will be miraculously relieved of all toothache.

The origin of this legend is as mysterious as the scientist himself. Perhaps it is linked to his famous artificial nose, made of gold and silver after he lost his own in a duel, symbolizing his resilience to pain and fate. Millions of touches over hundreds of years have polished the stone of the astronomer’s face to a sheen, witnessing how many sufferers sought their last hope here. Although modern medicine offers other paths, the quiet gloom of the Týn Church and the stony calm of Tycho Brahe still attract those who believe that science and magic can still lend a helping hand even after death.