Attractions - St. Bartholomew´s Cathedral

Region: Pilsen
Category: historical attractions


Panorama view (flash)

The dominant of the city of Pilsen is the spire of the St. Bartholomew's Cathedral – the highest spire (103 m) in the Czech Republic. The construction of the cathedral of St. Bartholomew began in 1295 and was finished by the beginning of the 16th century. The pilgrims come here to visit the Madonna of Pilsen, the Gothic sculpture placed on the main altar. According to the legend, a blind man made this medieval work of so-called „beautiful style“. The legend says that the Virgin Mary asked him to make the sculpture and was guiding his hands during the work. Since she was content with the result, she gave him back his sight, so that he could see his beautiful work.

St. Bartholomew´s cathedral 1

St. Bartholomew´s cathedral 2

The chapel dates back to the first half of the 16th century and it has an overhanging roof bolt. On a clear day, you can see the Šumava Mountains from the tower gallery. In 1993, Pope John Paul II bestowed upon Pilsen the right to become a bishopric and the Church of St. Bartholomew became a cathedral.

There are no tourist visits allowed during religious services and in the days of religious celebrations.