The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saints Vitus, Wenceslaus and Adalbert (Czech: metropolitní katedrála svatého Víta, Václava a Vojtěcha) is a Roman Catholic metropolitan cathedral in Prague, the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. Until 1997, the cathedral was dedicated only to Saint Vitus, and is still commonly named only as St. Vitus Cathedral. This cathedral is a prominent example of Gothic architecture and is the largest and most important church in the country. Located within Prague Castle and containing the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors, the cathedral is under the ownership of the Czech government as part of the Prague Castle complex. Cathedral dimensions are 124 by 60 metres (407 ft × 197 ft), the main tower is 102.8 metres (337 ft) high, front towers 82 metres (269 ft), arch height 33.2 metres (109 ft). The current cathedral is the third of a series of religious buildings at the site, all dedicated to St. Vitus. The first church was an early Romanesque rotunda founded by Wenceslaus I, Duke of Bohemia in 930. This patron saint was chosen because Wenceslaus had acquired a holy relic – the arm of St. Vitus – from Emperor Henry I. It is also possible that Wenceslaus, wanting to convert his subjects to Christianity more easily, chose a saint whose name (Svatý Vít in Czech) sounds very much like the name of Slavic solar deity Svantevit. Two religious populations, the increasing Christian and decreasing pagan community, lived simultaneously in Prague castle at least until the 11th century. In the year 1060, as the bishopric of Prague was founded, prince Spytihněv II embarked on building a more spacious church, as it became clear the existing rotunda was too small to accommodate the faithful. A much larger and more representative Romanesque basilica was built in its spot. Though still not completely reconstructed, most experts agree it was a triple-aisled basilica with two choirs and a pair of towers connected to the western transept. The design of the cathedral nods to Romanesque architecture of the Holy Roman Empire, most notably to the abbey church in Hildesheim and the Speyer Cathedral. The southern apse of the rotunda was incorporated into the eastern transept of the new church because it housed the tomb of St. Wenceslaus, who had by now become the patron saint of the Czech princes. A bishop's mansion was also built south of the new church, and was considerably enlarged and extended in the mid 12th-century.

St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála Sv. Vita) Tours and Tickets
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The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saints Vitus, Wenceslaus and Adalbert (Czech: metropolitní katedrála svatého Víta, Václava a Vojtěcha) is a Roman Catholic metropolitan cathedral in Prague, the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. Until 1997, the cathedral was dedicated only to Saint Vitus, and is still commonly named only as St. Vitus Cathedral. This cathedral is a prominent example of Gothic architecture and is the largest and most important church in the country. Located within Prague Castle and containing the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors, the cathedral is under the ownership of the Czech government as part of the Prague Castle complex. Cathedral dimensions are 124 by 60 metres (407 ft × 197 ft), the main tower is 102.8 metres (337 ft) high, front towers 82 metres (269 ft), arch height 33.2 metres (109 ft). The current cathedral is the third of a series of religious buildings at the site, all dedicated to St. Vitus. The first church was an early Romanesque rotunda founded by Wenceslaus I, Duke of Bohemia in 930. This patron saint was chosen because Wenceslaus had acquired a holy relic – the arm of St. Vitus – from Emperor Henry I. It is also possible that Wenceslaus, wanting to convert his subjects to Christianity more easily, chose a saint whose name (Svatý Vít in Czech) sounds very much like the name of Slavic solar deity Svantevit. Two religious populations, the increasing Christian and decreasing pagan community, lived simultaneously in Prague castle at least until the 11th century. In the year 1060, as the bishopric of Prague was founded, prince Spytihněv II embarked on building a more spacious church, as it became clear the existing rotunda was too small to accommodate the faithful. A much larger and more representative Romanesque basilica was built in its spot. Though still not completely reconstructed, most experts agree it was a triple-aisled basilica with two choirs and a pair of towers connected to the western transept. The design of the cathedral nods to Romanesque architecture of the Holy Roman Empire, most notably to the abbey church in Hildesheim and the Speyer Cathedral. The southern apse of the rotunda was incorporated into the eastern transept of the new church because it housed the tomb of St. Wenceslaus, who had by now become the patron saint of the Czech princes. A bishop's mansion was also built south of the new church, and was considerably enlarged and extended in the mid 12th-century.
Overview
More Info
- If you want to go inside, you’ll need to pay for a ticket, valid for 2 consecutive days.
- The castle is very popular with tourists, and there is often a line to get in. Join a guided tour group to skip the line.
- The cathedral houses the tombs of St. Wenceslas (patron saint of Prague) and King Charles IV.
- The cathedral’s main floor is wheelchair-accessible.
- Climb the cathedral tower for panoramic views of the city and river.
- There is no entrance fee for visitors attending the weekly Sunday morning Mass.
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Learn MoreFor Individuals with Hearing Loss
- Video Guide
- Hearing kits
Access for Seniors
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Recommended time for visit 2 hours
- Physical difficulty level - 3
Accessibility for wheels
- Special Parking
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Can have severe slope, cobblestones, and/or gravel
- Accessible elevator
- Step-Free
- Hilly area
- Accessible Toilet
Access for Visually Impaired
- Audio Guide
- Place has Special Guide Service
- Service animals permitted
As you approach the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, the anticipation builds within you. The sun is shining brightly, casting a warm glow on the intricate gothic facade, adorned with flying buttresses and spires reaching towards the sky. The gentle sound of the Vltava River flowing nearby provides a soothing background melody as you step inside this sacred place.
As you enter the cathedral, a wave of awe washes over you. The air is cool and musty, carrying the scents of ancient stone and incense. The soft light filtering through the stained glass windows paints the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow on the stone pillars and vaulted ceilings.
You hear the muffled whispers of visitors around you, their footsteps echoing on the polished marble floor. The hushed atmosphere evokes a sense of reverence and wonder, as if you have stepped into a different realm where time stands still.
You pause to admire the intricate details of the interior, from the ornate carvings on the tombs and altars to the delicate tracery of the rose window. Each element tells a story of faith and devotion, a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the past.
As you continue your journey through the cathedral, you come across the Chapel of St. Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia. The dimly lit chapel radiates a sense of peace and serenity, with the flickering candles casting a soft, golden light on the ancient relics and sacred artifacts.
In the main nave, you stand beneath the soaring vaults, feeling small and insignificant in the presence of such grandeur. The ethereal voices of the choir drift down from the organ loft, filling the space with an otherworldly beauty that stirs your soul.
Finally, you make your way to the sacristy, where the scent of burning candles and polished wood envelopes you in a warm embrace. The flickering candlelight dances on the faces of the saints and martyrs depicted in the icons, their eyes seeming to follow you as you move through the room.
As you leave the cathedral, you carry with you a sense of peace and awe that lingers long after you have exited its hallowed walls. The memory of St. Vitus Cathedral will stay with you, a testament to the enduring power of faith and the beauty of human creativity.
St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague offers audio guides for visitors, but it is advisable to check in advance for the availability of audio descriptive guides. As for sensory-friendly hours, it is recommended to contact the Cathedral directly to inquire about any specific accommodations or hours dedicated to providing a sensory-friendly experience for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
Located within the Prague Castle complex, St. Vitus Cathedral holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Its intricate Gothic architecture, stunning stained glass windows, and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction in Prague.
Local writers often draw inspiration from the cathedral’s grandeur and spiritual atmosphere. The imposing structure of St. Vitus Cathedral, with its soaring spires and intricate details, serves as a backdrop for their stories and poems, evoking a sense of awe and reverence. The cathedral’s rich history, dating back to the 14th century, provides a vivid backdrop for tales of kings and queens, saints and sinners, and the ever-changing city of Prague.
Artists, too, find endless inspiration within the walls of St. Vitus Cathedral. The play of light through the colorful stained glass windows creates a kaleidoscope of hues and patterns, inspiring painters and photographers to capture the cathedral’s beauty in their work. The sculptures and carvings that adorn the cathedral’s interior offer a glimpse into the artistic traditions of the past, inviting contemporary artists to infuse their own creativity into the centuries-old space.
For many locals, St. Vitus Cathedral is not just a tourist attraction, but a place of personal significance. It serves as a backdrop for important events in their lives, from weddings and christenings to moments of reflection and prayer. The cathedral’s spiritual presence provides solace in times of trouble and inspiration in times of joy, making it a beloved symbol of Prague’s cultural and religious heritage.
In the eyes of local writers and artists, St. Vitus Cathedral is more than just a historical monument – it is a living, breathing entity that continues to inspire, captivate, and enchant all who encounter it.
St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála Sv. Vita), Prague: Directions and Transportation
St. Vitus Cathedral is located within Prague Castle complex in the Hradčany district of Prague, Czech Republic. Here are some transportation options to reach the cathedral:
1. Public Transportation: You can take the Prague Metro to Malostranská station (Line A) and then walk up the hill to Prague Castle. Tram numbers 22, 15, and 23 also stop near Prague Castle.
2. Taxi or Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are easily available in Prague. Ask the driver to take you to Prague Castle or St. Vitus Cathedral.
3. Walking or Cycling: If you enjoy walking, you can reach the cathedral on foot from the city center. Cycling is another option, but be prepared for some uphill sections.
4. Accessibility: St. Vitus Cathedral is accessible to visitors with mobility issues. There are ramps for wheelchair access, and elevators inside the cathedral to reach different levels.
St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála Sv. Vita), Prague: Ticket Booking and Discounts
- Ticket Booking: You can purchase tickets to St. Vitus Cathedral at the entrance or online through the official website of Prague Castle. Booking online may help you avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Discounts: Students, seniors, and children might be eligible for discounted tickets. Make sure to carry valid identification to avail of these discounts. Check the official website for updated information on ticket prices and discounts.
St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála Sv. Vita), Prague: Local Amenities
1. Parking: Limited parking is available near Prague Castle. It’s recommended to use public transportation or park in the city center and walk up to the cathedral.
2. Restrooms: Restrooms are available inside the cathedral complex for visitors to use.
3. Dining Options: There are cafes and restaurants near Prague Castle where you can grab a meal or a snack. Make sure to check for options catering to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free choices.
Enjoy your visit to St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague! If you have any specific questions or require further assistance, feel free to ask.