Prague is a city that is well-known for its stunning architecture and rich history. One of the most iconic landmarks in Prague is the St Nicholas Church, which sits proudly in various locations throughout the city.
However, there has been some confusion about whether there are two St Nicholas Churches in Prague. Let’s explore this topic in more depth.
St Nicholas Church in the Old Town Square
The first and most well-known St Nicholas Church is located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town Square. This church was built between 1704 and 1755 and is an excellent example of Baroque architecture. Its beautiful dome and bell tower can be seen from many points throughout the city.
The interior of this church is equally impressive. The nave is adorned with frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St Nicholas, while the altar boasts a magnificent sculpture of St Nicholas himself. Visitors can also admire the intricate stucco work and ornate chandeliers that adorn the ceiling.
St Nicholas Church in Lesser Town
The second St Nicholas Church in Prague is located in Lesser Town, on the other side of the Vltava River from Old Town Square. This church was built between 1703 and 1711 and also features Baroque architecture.
While it may not be as well-known as its counterpart on Old Town Square, this church is equally stunning. The interior features impressive frescoes by Jan Lukas Kracker depicting scenes from the life of St John Nepomuk, as well as a beautiful altar with a statue of St Francis Xavier.
So, Are There Two St Nicholas Churches
Technically speaking, yes – there are two churches named after St Nicholas in Prague. However, they are distinct buildings with their unique histories and architectural styles.
It’s easy to see how some visitors to Prague may be confused about whether there are two St Nicholas Churches. The fact that they are both located in the same city and were built around the same time period could make it seem like they are one and the same. However, a closer look at their distinct features quickly reveals that they are indeed two separate buildings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are two St Nicholas Churches in Prague – one located in the Old Town Square and the other in Lesser Town. Both churches are stunning examples of Baroque architecture and offer visitors an opportunity to marvel at intricate frescoes, sculptures, and stucco work.
If you’re planning a trip to Prague, be sure to visit both St Nicholas Churches to appreciate their unique beauty and learn more about their history. And now that you know there are two of them, you won’t be confused when someone mentions “St Nicholas Church” without specifying which one they mean!