The largest temple in Prague, a mix of Gothic and Neo-Gothic architecture, is the place where coronations of the Czech kings and queens took place. It does not only have huge worldly importance, but it is also of significant religious importance, as the place of burial of several patron saints and archbishops. The cathedral itself is part of the Prague Castle complex.

History

The cathedral’s history is connected to some of the most famous personalities in Czech history. The celebrated King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV intended to make it a coronation church, family crypt, treasury for the most precious relics of the kingdom, and the last resting place (and pilgrimage site) of probably the most significant Czech patron saint, Wenceslaus.

Construction of St. Vitus Cathedral began in 1344 under the reign of Charles IV, but the building took nearly 600 years to complete. Its initial design was conceived by French architect Matthias of Arras and continued by the renowned Peter Parler, who contributed much of the cathedral’s iconic Gothic character.

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Throughout its long history, the cathedral has witnessed coronations of Czech kings and queens, housed the tombs of saints and monarchs, and survived periods of war and neglect. It was finally completed in 1929, just in time for the 1,000th anniversary of the death of St. Wenceslas, one of the country’s most revered patron saints.

St. Vitus Cathedral, or to use its full name The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saints Vitus, Wenceslaus and Adalbert, is an excellent example of Gothic architecture and the biggest and most important church in the Czech Republic. The seat of the Archbishop of Prague, dedicated to Saint Vitus, is definitely a historical monument of huge significance and beauty. Thus it would be (perhaps literally) a sin not see it during your visit to Prague.

Parts of the St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Wenceslas Chapel

St. Wenceslas Chapel is the cult centre of St. Vitus Cathedral. Its magnificent decoration emphasizes its singularity as the central point of the cathedral with the tomb of the most important Czech patron saint. Wenceslas I (also known as Wenceslaus or Václav in Czech) was the Duke of Bohemia from 921 until his assassination in 935, in a plot by his own brother Boleslav the Cruel. Václav was considered a martyr and a saint immediately after his death, when a cult of Wenceslas arose in Bohemia and also in England. Wenceslaus’s martyrdom, and the popularity of several biographies, quickly gave rise to a reputation for heroic goodness. As a result, he was elevated to sainthood, posthumously declared king, and acknowledged as the patron saint of the Czech state.

Crown Jewels Chamber – Where Bohemian Crown Jewels Rest

When you are in the St. Vitus Cathedral, you must pay attention to the door in the south-western corner of the St. Wenceslas Chapel. That is because it leads to the Crown Jewels chamber, where The Bohemian Crown Jewels are safely kept, although these precious symbols of the Czech cultural heritage are displayed only on exceptional occasions. The value of the set of Crown Jewels, consisting of the St. Wenceslas Crown, the Royal Sceptre, the Royal Apple, the Coronation Cloak, and other pieces of attire, is inexpressible in terms of money, because of their priceless historic value and symbolic importance.

The Tomb of Saint Vitus

The Tomb of Saint Vitus (after whom the Cathedral is named) is one of the most important attractions of St. Vitus Cathedral – and not only for practicing Christians. Apart from being a patron saint of Bohemia, Vitus is a patron of actors, entertainers, and dancers, and is said to protect against lightning, dog bites, and oversleeping. This significant Christian saint from Sicily died as a martyr during the persecution of Christians by Roman Emperors in 303.

The Great South Tower

The cathedral is crowned by the magnificent Great South Tower. From this nearly 100-metre high tower (construction of which was started by the architect Peter Parler in the 14th century), there is an amazing view of Prague and the bells of the cathedral. It is thus absolutely worth climbing the 287 steps leading up…

Conclusion

St. Vitus Cathedral is more than just a church—it’s a symbol of Czech heritage and a must-see for any visitor to Prague. Whether you’re admiring its soaring towers from afar or standing in awe beneath its vaulted ceilings, the cathedral offers a powerful experience of Prague’s grandeur and history.

5 Honest Tips for Visiting St. Vitus Cathedral

1. ‍Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during the high season (May to September).‍
2. Access is free to the main nave, but entry to some chapels and towers requires a ticket (included in Prague Castle ticket packages).‍
3. Dress modestly, as this is an active place of worship.‍
4. Don’t miss the light—visit around midday when sunlight enhances the stained glass interiors.‍
5. Photography is allowed, but flash and tripods are not permitted.