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The Catholic Church in Prague, Czech Republic, is a member of the Universal Catholic Church and is spiritually led by the Pope, its Curia, which is in Rome, as well as the Council of Czech Bishops.
But when exactly did the Catholic Church in Prague first begin its works? The catholic church was established during the ninth and tenth centuries when the Czechs converted to Catholicism, abandoning traditional Slavic paganism in the process.
According to the 2021 census, there were 741,000 self-identified Roman Catholics, 8,309 self-identified Greek Catholics, and a further 236,000 self-identified as “Catholic.” The catholic church in Prague makes up more than 9 percent of the total Czech population.
What is the famous Church near Prague? How did Catholicism begin, and what are the five top catholic churches in Prague? Read on to find out.
The Origins of The Catholic Church in Prague
Following the second defenestration in Prague, only Roman Catholicism was tolerated. The U.B.( United Brotherhood) clergy, aristos, and middle-class Protestants were all forced to convert to Catholicism or face banishment.
After the Thirty Years’ War finally ended in 1648, thanks to the peace treaty of Westphalia, the Habsburgs annexed the Roman Catholic southern region of the Czech Republic. This marked the start of the Counter-Change movement, during which Roman Catholicism was imposed on the country. In this era, Prague saw the construction of numerous baroque-style churches.
Serfs who identified as “Protestant” were barred from leaving the nation. The clergy made sure that new converts remained “obedient” to the Catholic faith. The “Days of Darkness” continued for 150 years, from 1348 until 1781, when the Edict of Tolerance was issued.
Top 5 Catholic Churches in Prague
While all of Prague’s cathedrals are works of cultural and architectural beauty, there are a few that are absolute must-sees for any visitor to the city.
Cathedral of St. Vitus
St. Vitus Cathedral is the largest and most famous church near Prague.
This Gothic miracle has been a part of the Prague skyline since its construction in 1344. The royal coronations of Czech monarchs and emperors were held here in addition to religious ceremonies. Several influential people, including saints, monarchs, nobles, and archbishops, are buried in the cathedral.
Opening Hours: 9 am to 5 pm (GMT) from April to October and 9 am to 4 pm (GMT) from November to March.
Physical Address: III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia
Admission Fee: Tickets begin at CZK 250.
Our Lady before Týn
This remarkable church, with towers as high as 80 meters, is well worth a visit if you find yourself in Old Town Square. There are four little spires atop each of the towers. This magnificent Gothic structure, referred to as Týn Church, was erected in the fourteenth century by Peter Parler and Matthias from Arras.
Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays. Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:00 to 5:00 pm.
Physical Address: Old Town, Prague
Admission Fee: Free
Church of St. Ignatius
This Early Baroque place of worship is located in a building formerly a Jesuit residence (now a teaching hospital). It is said to be the third-biggest Jesuit complex throughout Europe.
The church, which stands tall in Karlovo Square, was designed and constructed by Carlo Lurago between 1665 and 1671. The inside is lavishly decorated in Baroque style and the impact of diffused light dazzles guests. The majority of the pieces date back to roughly 1770.
Opening Hours: 6:00 am to 6:30 pm
Physical Address:Karlovo nám., 120 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Admission Fee: Free
Our Lady Victorious
The Infant Jesus of Prague is housed inside the Early Baroque cathedral of Our Lady Victorious, which dates back to the sixteenth century. Polyxena of Lobkowicz gave the monument of a crowned Infant Jesus clutching the Globus crucible to the cathedral in 1628.
The Infant Jesus wears two crowns and around forty-six garments. Approximately ten times every year, his robes are altered to reflect the liturgical season. The garments and other sacred artifacts are housed in a modest museum.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 6:00 pm
Physical Address: Prague, Malá Strana
Admission Fee: Free
Emmaus Monastery
The ancient steeples of the Benedictine monastery were burned down in a bombing attack in 1945.
Still, the 1960s-era white towers with golden spires have made the monastery easy to recognize ever since. Charles IV established the cathedral in 1347, and it quickly became a hub for culture and scholarship in the Slavic lands. Relics of rare Gothic paintings on walls can be found in the cloisters, while the chapel of the Virgin Mary is decorated in the Beuron architecture.
Opening Hours: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Physical Address: Vyšehradská 49/320, 128 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Admission Fee: From CZK 60
Uncover Prague Castle’s History and Splendor on an Intimate Group Tour
Nestled within the heart of the Czech Republic, Prague Castle stands as a prominent gem among tourist destinations. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts the distinction of being the world’s largest castle complex. Within this small-group tour, you’ll be afforded the opportunity to delve into the castle’s iconic landmarks, including the resplendent St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the enchanting Golden Lane.
Highlights
- Embark on a journey to St. Vitus Cathedral, the hallowed ground of Bohemian kings’ coronations.
- Unearth the tale of the third Defenestration of Prague within the Old Royal Palace.
- Visit the venerable Basilica of St. George, a testament to the enduring legacy of Prague Castle.
- Roam through the charming Golden Lane, adorned with picturesque abodes and the captivating Daliborka Tower.
Included
- Guided tour fee
- St. Vitus Cathedral
- Old Royal Palace
- St. George’s Basilica
- Golden Lane
- Bypass the ticket queues
- Live tour narration provided by an English-speaking guide
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Intimate group setting
- Limited to a maximum of 10 participants
Explore The Catholic Churches in Prague
While the city’s bridges, gold-topped towers, cobblestone pathways, and enclosed courtyards are all incredible, the catholic church in Prague is a powerful magnet for the city’s annual tens of millions of visitors.
As you discover what the famous Church near Prague is, you will learn about the catholic church in Prague, which was formerly the primary religion in Prague‘s history.
FAQ
These Catholic churches have been integral to Prague’s cultural and religious landscape, often being at the center of significant historical events and community life.
Specific churches in Prague may host unique liturgical celebrations and local festivities that reflect Czech Catholic traditions and heritage.
Accessibility varies, with many historic churches making efforts to accommodate visitors with disabilities, though details should be checked in advance.
Community engagement and volunteer opportunities at these churches might be available, particularly for those looking to contribute to local charitable activities.
Several churches are tied to historical figures, either saints or prominent community leaders, who have influenced their legacy and significance in Prague.
