Kostel svatého Bartoloměje v Praze Kostel
The Kostel svatého Bartoloměje v Praze, a Baroque church in Prague's Old Town, stands as a notable example of Czech architecture. Built between 1726 and 1731 according to Kilián Ignác Dientzenhofer's design, this striking monument showcases the country's Baroque style.
The site has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Initially, it housed a brothel, which was later transformed into Jeruzalém, a school and refuge for repentant prostitutes. In 1372, Jan Milíč z Kroměříže converted the site into Jeruzalém, and in 1374, it became a Cistercian college.
The church's architecture is characterized by its striking contrast between the simple exterior and intricate interior. The building has undergone several transformations over the centuries, including a fire in 1678 that destroyed a previous chapel. After the Jesuit order was abolished in 1773, the church fell into disrepair and was eventually used as a storage facility.
In the 19th century, the church was acquired by the Congregation of Grey Sisters III. Order of St. Francis, who utilized it for various purposes until nationalization followed the communist takeover in 1949. During this period, the church was neglected and fell into disrepair.
Today, the Kostel svatého Bartoloměje v Praze is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, featuring intricate frescoes by Václav Vavřinec Reiner and stunning interior design. Visitors can access the impressive interior through the main entrance or via the courtyard facade, which showcases sculptures of twelve apostles, Christ, and the Virgin Mary.
This monument serves as a testament to Prague's rich history and its ability to adapt to changing times. Visitors are invited to explore this stunning church and experience its beauty firsthand.
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
- 1372
- Jan Milíč z Kroměříže converts the site into Jeruzalém
- 1374
- The site becomes a Cistercian college
- 1678
- A fire destroys a previous chapel
- 1726
- Construction of the church begins according to Kilián Ignác Dientzenhofer's design
- 1731
- The church is completed
- 1773
- The Jesuit order is abolished and the church falls into disrepair
- 1949
- Nationalization follows the commun
Architectural development
The church was built on the site of a former brothel, which was transformed into a Jeruzalém, a school and refuge for repentant prostitutes. The building has undergone several transformations over the centuries.
Historical events
1726-1731: Construction of the church
1678: Fire in the quarter destroys a previous chapel
1773: Jezuit order abolished
Owners
Jezuitský řád
Kongregace Šedých sester III. řádu sv. Františka
Points of interest
– The site where the church stands today was once a brothel in the Middle Ages, which was later converted into a school and refuge for repentant prostitutes.
– In the 14th century, the site was transformed into Jeruzalém, a Cistercian college, before becoming a Jesuit college in the 17th century.
Guide – historical figure
The video is generated by artificial intelligence as a historical reconstruction. The character and scene are fictional, yet set in a historical context.
Guide
Show guide text
Welcome to the Church of Saint Bartholomew in Prague! As you stand before this historic landmark, take a moment to appreciate its striking façade. The simple exterior belies the intricate beauty that awaits you inside.
As you gaze up at the church's modest entrance, imagine the rich history that has unfolded on this very site over the centuries. According to records, the area was once home to a brothel in the Middle Ages, which later became a school and refuge for repentant prostitutes. Who would have thought that such a transformation would lead to the stunning Baroque church you see before you today?
Let's take a step back in time to explore the church's origins. The site was transformed into Jerusalem by Jan Milíč z Kroměříže in 1372, only to become a Cistercian college just two years later. A fire destroyed a previous chapel on this spot in 1678, paving the way for the construction of the current church.
As you walk around the exterior, take note of the church's design, which was carefully crafted by Kilián Ignác Dientzenhofer in the early 18th century. The architect's vision is evident in every detail, from the ornate façade to the delicate stonework that adorns the walls.
Now, let your eyes wander inside, where you'll discover a treasure trove of frescoes by Václav Vavřinec Reiner. These masterpieces are just one testament to the church's rich cultural heritage, which has been shaped by some of the most talented artists and thinkers of their time.
As you explore this sacred space, keep an ear out for whispers of the past. You might catch a glimpse of Petr Brandl, the renowned sculptor who contributed to the church's ornate decoration. Or perhaps you'll stumble upon a hidden corner where a 14th-century monk once meditated on the mysteries of the universe.
As you stand here today, take a moment to appreciate the enigmatic quality that surrounds this place. Did you know that the site where the church stands was once home to a brothel in the Middle Ages? Or that it was transformed into Jerusalem and later became a Cistercian college?
Take your time, breathe in the atmosphere, and let the stories of the past unfold before you. As you leave this sacred space, remember that there's always more to discover, more secrets to uncover, and more mysteries to unravel.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through the Church of Saint Bartholomew in Prague. I hope you've enjoyed this glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage that awaits you here. Until next time, farewell!
Tips for visitors
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Church of St. Bartholomew is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. This allows you to fully appreciate the church's architecture and interior without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Getting There: The church is located in the heart of Prague, making it easily accessible by public transportation or on foot. You can also drive here, but be aware that parking options may be limited. What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning interior and exterior views. Don't forget to bring some water and snacks, as you'll want to take your time exploring this beautiful church. Photography: The best spots for photography are inside the church, where you can capture the intricate frescoes and ornate details. Natural light pours in through the stained-glass windows, making it ideal for taking photos during the morning or late afternoon. What to See Nearby: Within a 30-minute walk, you'll find other historical landmarks like the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and St. Nicholas Church. Take your time exploring these iconic sites and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Prague's city center.
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Nearby
The church is located in the heart of Prague, surrounded by other historical landmarks and cultural institutions.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
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Prague's Historic Heart
This thematic tour takes you on a journey through the heart of Prague, exploring its rich history and cultural heritage. The main attraction is the Kostel svatého Bartoloměje, a stunning church in the center of the city.
1. Old Town Square: Start your day at Old Town Square, one of the most iconic public spaces in Europe. Admire the famous Astronomical Clock and take a stroll around the square to soak up its vibrant atmosphere. 2. Týn Church: Just across from the church is Týn Church, a beautiful Gothic building with intricate stone carvings and stunning stained-glass windows. Its unique architecture makes it a must-see attraction in Prague. 3. Kostel svatého Bartoloměje: Finally, arrive at your main destination – the stunning Kostel svatého Bartoloměje. This 14th-century church is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
This tour takes you on a journey through the heart of Prague, exploring its rich history and cultural heritage. With these three stops, you'll get a taste of what makes this city so unique and special.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring
The spring season brings a fresh atmosphere to the Church of St. Bartholomew, with blooming flowers and greenery surrounding the building. The gentle sunlight casting through the windows illuminates the interior, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful visit. As the weather warms up, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds that gather during peak hours. Wear comfortable shoes and layers for unpredictable spring weather.
Summer
In the summer, the Church of St. Bartholomew comes alive with vibrant colors and lively atmosphere. The warm sunshine highlights the intricate details of the architecture, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. However, be prepared for larger crowds during peak tourist season. Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat and chaos. Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen for a pleasant experience.
Autumn
The autumn season brings a cozy atmosphere to the Church of St. Bartholomew, with the golden light of sunset casting a warm glow over the building. The surrounding trees display vibrant colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for your visit. As the weather cools down, consider visiting during the late morning or early afternoon when the crowds are smaller. Wear layers and comfortable shoes for a pleasant experience.
Winter
In the winter, the Church of St. Bartholomew takes on a serene atmosphere, with soft lighting illuminating the interior. The cold weather brings smaller crowds, making it an ideal time to visit if you prefer a peaceful experience. Dress warmly and consider visiting during the late morning or early afternoon when the church is less crowded. Take advantage of the shorter opening hours to enjoy a quiet moment of contemplation.
Visualizations and artistic views
Vizualizace jsou generovány umělou inteligencí a slouží jako inspirace.
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