St Barbara’s Cathedral

(AKA Chrám svaté Barbory)

St. Barbara’s Cathedral, located in the town of Kutná Hora in the Czech Republic, is a magnificent architectural gem that should not be missed by anyone considering a visit to the region. This stunning cathedral is one of the most important Gothic structures in Central Europe and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As you approach St. Barbara’s Cathedral, you will be immediately struck by its grandeur and imposing presence. Its soaring spires and intricate details make it a true masterpiece of Gothic design. Construction of the cathedral began in the late 14th century and took several centuries to complete, resulting in a fascinating blend of architectural styles.

The exterior of St. Barbara’s Cathedral is adorned with numerous spires, gargoyles, and intricate stone carvings that depict scenes from biblical stories and the lives of saints. The sheer height and intricacy of the decorative elements are awe-inspiring, and they beautifully showcase the craftsmanship of the medieval artisans.

The cathedral’s nave is spacious and airy, with tall, slender columns supporting the vaulted ceilings. The stained glass windows bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, casting ethereal light that creates a serene atmosphere.

Be sure to take your time to explore the many chapels within St. Barbara’s Cathedral. Each chapel is adorned with intricate details, exquisite altarpieces, and religious paintings that reflect the devotion and artistic skill of the craftsmen of that era. The Chapel of the Holy Trinity is particularly noteworthy, with its stunning frescoes and beautifully carved wooden choir stalls.

One of the highlights of a visit to St. Barbara’s Cathedral is the opportunity to climb to the top of the central spire. Although it requires some effort to ascend the winding staircase, the panoramic views of Kutná Hora and the surrounding countryside from the top are absolutely breathtaking. It is a remarkable vantage point that allows you to appreciate the architectural beauty of the cathedral from a unique perspective.

Visit Notes

This cathedral is absolutely gorgeous. There is a lot to see here, so plan to spend a good amount of time. My daughter is obsessed with organs, so we really enjoyed climbing to the second level to admire it up close. I am obsessed with statues and carved stone, so I was engrossed with the exhibits that were also on the second floor. Examining the stained glass alone could take up a significant portion of your day.

One of the things I enjoyed was the old graffiti you can find on the walls of the second floor. It begs the question, when does plain old graffiti become of historical value?

This is a do-not-miss attraction if you enjoy architecture or religious art.

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