Are you planning a trip to Prague and wondering how to get to the Church of Bones (Kostnice)? This unique and eerie church is located in the small town of Kutná Hora, just a short train ride from Prague. Here’s everything you need to know about getting to the Church of Bones.
Getting There
To get to Kutná Hora from Prague, you can take a train from either the main train station (Hlavní nádraží) or Masarykovo nádraží. The journey takes approximately one hour, and trains run frequently throughout the day. Once you arrive in Kutná Hora, you can either take a local bus or walk to the church.
By Bus
The local bus that takes you directly to the Church of Bones is numbered 384. You can catch it at Kutná Hora bus station, which is located next to the train station.
The bus journey takes around 10-15 minutes and costs approximately 25 CZK (approximately 1 USD). The bus drops you off right outside the church.
On Foot
If you prefer walking, it’s about a 20-minute walk from Kutná Hora train station to the Church of Bones. Just follow the signs for “Sedlec Ossuary” or “Kostnice.” The route is well signposted and takes you through some beautiful streets and past historic buildings.
What Is The Church Of Bones?
The Church of Bones is also known as Kostnice Sedlec or Sedlec Ossuary. It’s a small Roman Catholic chapel that was built in the early 14th century on the site of an old cemetery.
In 1511, after an outbreak of plague, thousands of people were buried in mass graves in the cemetery. In the 16th century, a local woodcarver was hired to decorate the chapel with the bones of these exhumed bodies. Today, it’s estimated that over 40,000 human skeletons are on display in the church.
What To Expect When You Get There
When you arrive at the church, you’ll notice that it’s small and unassuming from the outside. But as soon as you step inside, you’ll be struck by the eerie and haunting atmosphere.
The bones are arranged in intricate patterns and designs that cover every inch of the walls and ceiling. There are even chandeliers made entirely out of human bones.
Tips For Visiting
– Photography is allowed, but be respectful of the space and other visitors. – The church can get crowded during peak tourist season, so plan to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
– There’s a small entrance fee (approximately 5 USD), which goes towards maintaining and preserving this historic site. – If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Kutná Hora and Sedlec Ossuary, consider taking a guided tour.
Conclusion
Getting to Prague Church of Bones may seem daunting at first, but with a little planning, it’s an easy day trip from Prague that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you’re fascinated by history or just looking for something different to do while visiting Prague, Sedlec Ossuary is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared for a haunting experience that will stay with you long after you leave.