St. Vitus Cathedral
Cathedral in Prague
St. Vitus Cathedral is the spiritual heart of Prague and the crown jewel of the castle complex that surrounds it. Towering above the city’s skyline, its Gothic spires and flying buttresses are visible from across the Vltava River and beyond. Construction began in 1344 under the reign of Charles IV and took nearly 600 years to complete, resulting in an awe-inspiring structure that combines Gothic drama with later Baroque and Neo-Gothic flourishes. For many visitors, it’s the single most impressive monument in Prague.
As you enter, the vast interior opens up into a soaring nave filled with colored light streaming through stained-glass windows, each telling a story of saints, monarchs, or moments in Czech history. Among the most admired is the Art Nouveau window designed by Alfons Mucha, which brings a unique modern touch to the otherwise medieval atmosphere. Towering columns, intricate stonework, and vaulted ceilings draw your gaze upward, creating a sense of divine grandeur. The echo of footsteps and hushed voices only adds to the cathedral’s solemn atmosphere.
The Chapel of St. Wenceslas, encrusted with semi-precious stones, is one of the most sacred spaces in the cathedral. This richly decorated room holds the tomb of the Czech patron saint and is where the Bohemian crown jewels are secured in a hidden chamber behind a reinforced door with seven locks. Nearby, the royal crypt contains the resting places of kings and queens, while the south tower offers visitors willing to climb its 287 steps a stunning panoramic view over Prague.
St. Vitus Cathedral is more than just a church—it’s a symbol of Czech identity, a monument to architectural ambition, and a must-see for any visitor to Prague. Whether you’re there for religious reverence, historical insight, or architectural wonder, the experience leaves a lasting impression. It’s a place where past and present intersect beneath stained-glass light and soaring stone arches.
The St. Vitus Cathedral appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting St. Vitus Cathedral
Summer 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Winter Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, Sunday Noon–4:00 PM.
Tower Add-On: 150 CZK for access.
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