St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral, located within Prague Castle, is the largest and most important church in the Czech Republic. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, its construction began in 1344 under King Charles IV and wasn't completed until 1929. The cathedral's twin spires dominate the Prague skyline, and its exterior is adorned with intricate stone carvings and flying buttresses. Inside, visitors are greeted by soaring vaulted ceilings, colorful stained-glass windows (including one by Art Nouveau artist Alfons Mucha), and the stunning St. Wenceslas Chapel, adorned with semi-precious stones and frescoes. The cathedral houses the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors, as well as the crown jewels (displayed occasionally). The view from the Great South Tower offers panoramic vistas of Prague. The cathedral is a working church, hosting masses and concerts. Its blend of history, art, and spirituality makes it an unmissable stop in Prague.

Don't miss

• St. Wenceslas Chapel with its gilded decorations and semi-precious stones
• Alfons Mucha's stained-glass window in the third chapel on the left
• The Great South Tower climb for panoramic views of Prague
• The silver tomb of St. John of Nepomuk
• The royal crypt with tombs of Charles IV and other monarchs

Know before you go

• Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered. No shorts or sleeveless tops.
• Photography is allowed without flash inside the cathedral.
• Buy a Prague Castle circuit ticket to see the cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and Golden Lane.
• Allow extra time for security checks at the castle entrance.

A bit of history

St. Vitus Cathedral was founded in 1344 on the site of an earlier Romanesque rotunda. Construction halted during the Hussite Wars and resumed in the 19th century, with final completion in 1929. It houses the relics of St. Vitus and tombs of Bohemian rulers.