Explore The Best Of Prague’s Religious Architecture

The historic city of Prague boasts some of the most impressive and well-preserved architecture in Europe, including a host of awe-inspiring churches. Having avoided the nineteenth-century development craze that affected many European capitals, as well as the devastation inflicted on cities like Dresden during WWII, Prague’s streets are packed with a remarkable range of architectural styles, from medieval and Gothic to Baroque and Renaissance.

With such different styles of design around every corner, it can be hard to know where to look to find the very best architectural gems. Luckily, this guide will point you in the direction of the most beautiful and striking religious architecture that the Czech capital has to offer.

St Vitus Cathedral

This towering Gothic masterpiece is situated within the Prague Castle complex. Its soaring flying buttresses and ornate Gothic detail, reminiscent of Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris, took centuries of work to complete. The 287 steps of the Great South Tower, while daunting, are definitely worth the climb for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view over the historic city centre.

St Salvator Church at Charles Bridge

The dazzling white Baroque façade of this church, complete with statue-studded porticos, is hard to miss as you pass by the Charles Bridge at the entrance to Prague’s Old Town. This grandiose, eye-catching building isn’t just interesting to look at, but it also played an important role in history; it was formerly the largest residence of the Jesuits. Now, it’s a popular venue for classical music concerts, thanks to its two recently and splendidly restored organs. 

Our Lady before Týn

An instantly recognisable feature of the Prague skyline, the two fairytale spires of the Church of Our Lady before Týn dominate the centre of the Old Square. Inside, above the altar, hangs a stunning painting of the Virgin Mary by the celebrated master Karl Škréta, while the exterior is another outstanding example of dramatic and intricate Gothic design. 

Church of Our Lady Victorious 

Tucked away off the beaten track in the Malá Strana district, an area of Prague less frequented by tourists, the Church of Our Lady Victorious dates from the early seventeenth century and is Prague’s first Baroque-style church. Boasting an extravagant marble and gold interior, this church’s other claim to fame is as the home to the Infant of Prague. The dedicated display area for the renowned statuette of the baby Jesus draws in devout Catholics and visitors alike. 

How to Get There

The quickest and easiest way to get straight into the heart of Prague and make the most of your time in this historic city is with a Prague airport shuttle. Avoid the hassle of negotiating public transport or the expense of a local taxi by pre-booking a Prague airport shuttle before you leave home. You can then look forward to a convenient and stress-free door-to-door service as well as more time to stroll the streets of Prague and marvel at some of the best-preserved and most extraordinary religious architecture in Europe. 

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Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers in various countries across the globe. If you’re looking for an affordable Prague airport shuttle, Lukas and his colleagues can make sure that you and your luggage get to and from the airport swiftly and safely.