St. Vitus Cathedral is undoubtedly one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks, and it stands as the crowning jewel of the Prague Castle complex. It’s visible from pretty much anywhere in the city and is quite handy as an orientating point! With its soaring spires, intricate carvings, and breathtaking stained-glass windows, it’s not just a place of worship, but a story of some of the Czech Republic’s and Bohemia’s rich history, artistry, and architecture.
Apparently there’s been atleast three distinct buildings on the site – with the existing footprint being by far the largest. And it is massive. Whether you’re standing outside in awe of its Gothic grandeur or exploring the many alcoves and chapels inside, St. Vitus Cathedral is an experience you won’t forget.
A Brief History of St. Vitus Cathedral
Construction of the cathedral began in 1344 under the reign of Emperor Charles IV, but due to its ambitious size and intricate design, it took nearly 600 years to complete. The cathedral was built to be the spiritual heart of the country and to house the relics of St. Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia. Despite its grand vision, work on the cathedral was stalled for centuries due to conflict, changing architectural tastes, and even the Hussite Wars in the 15th century. It wasn’t until the 20th century that the cathedral was finally completed in its entirety.
Today, St. Vitus is not only the seat of the Archbishop of Prague but also serves as the national cathedral of the Czech Republic, symbolizing the country’s deep connection to faith and history.
The Exterior: Soaring Spires and Intricate Details
The exterior of St. Vitus Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Its towering spires rise dramatically above the Prague skyline, the tallest reaching 97 meters (318 feet). The cathedral’s arches, flying buttresses, and delicate carvings give the structure a feeling of height and lightness that feels weirdly at odds with its size – it in a good way!
As you approach, you’ll be struck by the intricate facade, which is covered in a mix of biblical scenes, saints, and various allegorical figures. The Rose Window, a magnificent stained-glass circle located above the main entrance, is one of the most notable features. It depicts scenes from the Bible, with vibrant reds, blues, and greens that seem to change depending on the angle of the light.
One of the most striking details on the cathedral’s façade is the Golden Portal, a richly decorated entrance that symbolises the passage into the sacred. The portal is flanked by intricate sculptures that depict key figures from the Christian faith, including scenes from the Last Judgment.
The Interior: A Feast for the Eyes
Once inside, the cathedral overwhelms with its beauty, but the first thing you really get a sense of is the sheer size. The soaring vaulted ceilings, which reach up to 33 meters (108 feet), give the impression that the space is kind of endless. The interior is a perfect example of the Gothic ambition to draw the eyes upwards, as the light from the stained-glass windows floods the space, casting colorful reflections on the stone floors.
The Stained-Glass Windows
The stained-glass windows of St. Vitus are – we were told – among the most exquisite in Europe. This isn’t hard to believe having seen them, though obviously if you’re doing a thesis on it don’t take our word! Many of the windows were created by famous artists like Alphonse Mucha (the famed Czech Art Nouveau painter), whose Slav Epic series is also in Prague. The windows are not only artistic masterpieces but also carry rich symbolic meaning, depicting everything from the life of Christ to the history of the Czech lands.
The windows are particularly stunning when sunlight filters through them, bathing the interior in an array of colours that change throughout the day. We spent a good amount of time just looking at each of the windows – beautiful even if you aren’t 100% sure what you’re looking at!
The Royal Crypt and St. Wenceslas Chapel
One of the most significant parts of the cathedral is the St. Wenceslas Chapel. This chapel, located behind the altar, houses the relics of St. Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech Republic. It’s a highly revered place, with its golden altar and elaborate mosaics, including a depiction of the saint’s life and martyrdom – it’s not actually open to the public per se, but you can see in through grated doorways.
Beneath the cathedral is the Royal Crypt, where many Bohemian kings and queens are buried, including Emperor Charles IV – if you’re interested in the Holy Roman Empire. If it wasn’t already, this adds a layer of historical significance to the cathedral, as you’re reminded of the royalty that shaped the nation’s history.
The Organ
The cathedral’s organ is another highlight. Its music fills the space during religious ceremonies and concerts, adding a layer of sound to the already overwhelming visual beauty. It’s often used for special services, including the famous midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.
The South Tower: A Stunning View of Prague
If you’re up for a bit of a climb, the South Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral offers some of the most incredible views of Prague. The 287-step ascent might leave you winded, but it’s well worth it. From the top, you get a panoramic view of the Vltava River, the Prague Castle complex, and the city’s iconic Old Town. On a clear day, the view is nothing short of magical, providing a bird’s-eye perspective of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
A Symbol of Czech Identity
St. Vitus Cathedral is more than just a religious site—it is a symbol of Czech identity and national pride. Its long and complicated history reflects the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the Czech people. It is not just a place for tourists to marvel at—it’s a space that continues to serve as a spiritual and cultural heart for the people of Prague.
Whether you’re there to admire its architectural beauty, soak in the history, or simply sit in awe of its grandeur, St. Vitus Cathedral is an experience that lingers long after you’ve left. Worth a visit no doubt at all.
