If you’re planning a trip to Prague, you may have heard about the St. Nicholas Church. But did you know that there are actually two St. Nicholas Churches in Prague? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both of these churches and their histories.
The Church in the Old Town Square
The first St. Nicholas Church is located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town Square. This Baroque-style church was built between 1704 and 1755 by architect Kryštof Dientzenhofer, with interior decoration by Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer.
The Exterior: The church’s exterior is truly breathtaking. It features a tall dome decorated with frescoes by Jan Lukáš Kracker, as well as several statues of saints adorning the façade.
The Interior: Inside, visitors can marvel at the ornate decorations and intricate details throughout the church. The high altar is particularly stunning, with its gold leaf finish and numerous sculptures.
A Brief History:
The St. Nicholas Church in Old Town Square has played an important role in Prague’s history for centuries. During World War II, it served as a refuge for civilians seeking shelter from air raids. Today, it continues to be used as a place of worship and also hosts concerts and other cultural events.
The Church in Lesser Town
The second St. Nicholas Church is located in Lesser Town (Malá Strana) on the left bank of the Vltava River. This church was also built in the Baroque style by Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer between 1703 and 1711.
The Exterior: The exterior of this church is equally impressive as its counterpart in Old Town Square. It boasts a grand façade with two towers and numerous statues of saints.
The Interior: Inside, visitors can explore the church’s many chapels and admire the stunning frescoes on the ceiling. The high altar is particularly noteworthy, with its intricate carvings and gold leaf decorations.
A Brief History:
The St. Nicholas Church in Lesser Town has a rich history that spans several centuries. During the communist era, it was used as a storage facility for books and other cultural artifacts. However, in 1991, it was returned to the Catholic Church and has since been restored to its former glory.
Conclusion
So, are there two St. Nicholas Churches in Prague? The answer is yes!
Both churches are stunning examples of Baroque architecture and offer visitors a glimpse into Prague’s rich history. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or simply want to soak up some culture during your trip to Prague, a visit to one (or both!) of these churches is definitely worth your time.