Kostel sv. Lazara Church
St. Lazarus Church was a hospital church located in Prague 2. Although it no longer exists, its name lives on in the name of Lazarská Street, one of the main transfer hubs in Prague. This church was first mentioned in writing in 1280 and its history dates back to the end of the 12th century, when it is assumed that it was built outside the castles due to the risk of infection. It was a hospital church surrounded by a cemetery, managed by a hospital fraternity and canons of the order of God's line on Zderaze.
The history of St. Lazarus church is closely linked to the history of Prague and Bohemia. In the 12th-14th century he was associated with graves for the victims of plague and famine, which was often common at this time due to the risk of spreading diseases. The church became a spiritual centre for local residents and craftsmen. In the 15th-17th century, after Hussite wars, he stopped working as a hospital and was taken over by the New Town Guild of Butchers. This period also meant changes in religious life, when the church served as a parable. In 1641, a congregation was established at the church to the glory of the Virgin Mary, led by the Jesuit Rector Martin Bouda.
The architecture of the church of St. Lazarus was characteristic of the early Gothic with a high prism ship and a quadratic presbytery with an arched vault. In the 15th century, there were changes that referred to the craft industry - for example, a clamp with their character. The Tympanon of the entrance portal, which was preserved in the Lapidarium of the National Museum, is an important monument to the artistic representation of this time.
The ownership and administration of the church have undergone several changes. After his first written testimony in 1280, he was under the administration of the hospital fraternity, assisted by kings Václav II., Jan Lucemburský and Karel IV. with various privileges. After Hussite wars, he went under the patronage of the butchers' guild and later the Jesuit college, which in 1641 acquired him into its patronage. In 1791, the church was repurchased by new-born butchers.
The Church of St. Lazarus has been through many events that have influenced his fate. The most significant of them was its abolition and closure in 1788 by order of Josef II. This led to it being subsequently converted into a workshop and warehouse. In 1900- 1901, the church was finally demolished because of the planned construction of the building of the imperial-royal criminal court, despite the protests of historical societies.
Today, the church of St. Lazarus no longer exists, but its history and architectural significance are still remembered through photographs and engravings. The name Lazarská Street serves as a monument to this church, which was an important place for many generations of Pražansky. Visit this site to remember the rich history and architectural values that once stood here.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 1280
- First written mention of the church.
- 1900-1901
- The demolishing of the church to build a building for the imperial-royal criminal court.
Architectural development
Kostel sv. Lazara began as a simple early Gothic church with a prism boat and a quadratic presbytery, which was encapsulated by the vault in the 15th century. In the 18th century he had five altars, including the main altar of St. Lazarus and others with different patrons.
Historical events
- 1280
- First written mention of the church.
- 1788
- The church was abolished and closed by order of Josef II.
- 1900-1901
- The demolishing of the church to build a building for the imperial-royal criminal court.
Owners
- 1280
- 15th Century
- 1641
- 1791
Points of interest
- The church of St.
Guide
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome! You are standing in front of the historic church of St. Lazarus, which stands in the heart of New Town. Look up and notice its Gothic shape. The church is surrounded by historic houses and streets that still keep the atmosphere of medieval Prague.
Let's move on to the past and find out when and how the church was created. The first written mention of the church dates back to 1280, but its history dates back to the end of the 12th century. It was a hospital church that served as a spiritual center for locals and craftsmen. The church was linked to graves for the victims of plague and famine, which is why it was such an important place for the local community.
Now pay attention to the architecture of the church. The French boat and quadratic presbytery are typical of early Gothic style. Look at the facade and notice its simplicity. The church was built at the end of the 12th century, but it has undergone many modifications and reconstructions over the centuries.
There were important events at the church and they were linked to many historical figures. Václav II., Jan Lucemburský and Karel IV. were just some of the many rulers who visited the church. Martin Bouda, a Jesuit who worked in a church in the 17th century, became an important figure in its history.
Note that the church was linked to graves for the victims of plague and famine. This is interesting, because the church was not only a religious center, but also a place where memories of tragic events were kept. Kostel sv. Lazara was the first church in Prague that was connected to the graves for the victims of the plague.
Let's go back to the present. Although the church of St. Lazarus was demolished in 1900- 1901 because of the construction of the building of the imperial-royal criminal court, its history and importance remain intact. Kostel sv. Lazara is a symbol of the history and tradition of Prague and stands here as a reminder of the past.
Allow me to invite you to further explore this historic monument. Kostel sv. Lazara is just one of the many interesting places in Prague waiting for you. Our way into the past is to have more surprises and discoveries.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit St. Lazarus's church is in the spring or autumn period, when there are fewer people and the temperature is pleasant for walking around New Town. This time of year also offers beautiful lighting conditions for photography of historical monuments in Prague.
Parking and access to the location of St. Lazarus church is possible by car and public transport. For those travelling by car, it is advisable to look for parking near New Town. Public transport offers a comfortable way to get to the centre of Prague and surrounding monuments.
When visiting, it is good to take a handbag or camera to capture historical sites in the surroundings. It is also important to have with you a rescue package that could include an umbrella, sunglasses and enough drinking supplement for all day walks.
For photography it is best to use the early morning light or late afternoon when the sun is not directly above your head. Although the church itself no longer exists, surrounding architecture and historical places offer beautiful shots.
In the vicinity of St. Lazarus church, you can visit other historical monuments and attractions within a 30-minute walk, such as Old Town Square or Malostranska Square. These places offer a rich history and culture of Prague.
For families with children it is advisable to visit nearby parks and gardens that provide space for play and rest. Children can also enjoy a walk on the historic streets of New Town with stories about the past of this area.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kostel sv. Lazara open to the public?
Kostel sv. Lazara no longer exists, but you can visit the surrounding area and see historical information in monuments or museums.
How do I get to the place by car / public transport?
You can arrive in the vicinity of today's Municipal Court by car or public transport. Check the current connection and parking options at the time of planning the visit.
How much is the entrance fee and is it paid on the spot?
Admission is not necessary because St. Lazarus's church no longer exists. You can visit nearby museums or monuments where the entrance fee is paid on site.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
The tour is suitable for children and seniors. Historical information about St. Lazarus's Church and surrounding monuments can be used.
How long does the tour take?
The visit time depends on your interest, but in general you can afford 1-2 hours to explore the surrounding monuments and historical information.
What are the opening times and booking is required?
The opening times may vary according to specific monuments in the surroundings. We recommend checking the current opening times on the official website.
What's interesting in the immediate vicinity?
The surrounding area is the Municipal Court and other historical buildings. You could also explore the streets of Prague 2 which offer rich architecture and history.
For kids
Hi! Do you hear that quiet wind noise? It's like you're warming up a long way back! Today I'm talking about a mystical place that stands at the solitude on Lazarská Street in Prague. But not just like this - it was once the church of St. Lazarus!
Remember when you first heard of craftsmen like carpenters and goldsmiths? Well, in the 15th century, someone brought a big key to this church. The key opened the door for the butchers' guilds! What if they thought the butchers would have their own church here? Well, that's what happened!
Businesses nearby
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Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Route: New town sights
1. Kostel sv. Lazara (main objective) This Baroque church is one of the most preserved and beautiful in Prague. It stands at the site of the original Gothic church from the 14th century, which was converted into Baroque in the 17th century. The church is famous for its rich frescos and sculptures.
2. New Town Hall (about 10 minutes walk) Town Hall is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and stands in the heart of New Town. Its tower is a dominant square and offers beautiful views of the surroundings.
3. Square of the Republic (about 5 minutes walk from town hall) The New Town Square is a quiet and picturesque place, offering numerous cafes, restaurants and shops. It's an ideal place to relax and look into the life of the locals.
4. Church of St. James (about 15 minutes walk from the square of the Republic) This church is another important monument to New Town and stands at the place where the original church was located from the 13th century. The church is famous for its Gothic details and rich decoration.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: In the spring season, St. Lazarus's church is lit by the sun, which shines through trees and flowering flowers. The atmosphere is full of life and fertility. We recommend visiting the church early in the morning or early in the afternoon to avoid crowds of tourists. Don't forget to wear warm clothes because it may still be cold in April or May.
Summer: In the main summer season, St. Lazarus's church is full of life and energy. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed. We recommend visiting the church early in the morning to avoid crowds of tourists coming later in the day. Don't forget to wear an umbrella or sunglasses because the sun can be strong.
Autumn: In the autumn season the church of St. Lazarus is lit with golden colours of falling tree leaves. The atmosphere is calm and anxious. We recommend visiting the church late in the afternoon to avoid crowds of tourists arriving in the morning. Remember to wear warm clothes, because even in October or November it may still be cold.
Winter: In the winter season, St. Lazarus's church is lit with lights and lights. The atmosphere is calm and quiet. We recommend visiting the church early in the morning or early in the afternoon to avoid late visitors arriving in the evening. Don't forget to wear warm clothes and shoes with goody because it can be cold and wet.
Visualizations and artistic views
Vizualizace jsou generovány umělou inteligencí a slouží jako inspirace.
Atmosphere of the place
This atmospheric visualisation of the place and period was generated by artificial intelligence. It is not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Fotografie: Jindřich Eckert / Public domain — Wikimedia Commons. Autor a licence se zobrazí i po najetí na snímek.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
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