The Church of Our Lady before Týn

(AKA Chrám Matky Boží před Týnem)

Located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town Square, the church is a prominent landmark that dominates the skyline with its two massive towers. It’s hard to miss and offers a striking visual experience from almost every angle.

As you approach the church, you’ll be captivated by its intricate and ornate exterior. The facade is adorned with a profusion of spires, sculptures, and decorative elements, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of the medieval architects and craftsmen. The most notable feature is the asymmetry of the towers: one is slightly taller and more slender than the other, creating a unique and visually intriguing effect.

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a breathtaking interior. The church’s grandeur is accentuated by its soaring vaulted ceilings, elaborate stained glass windows, and beautifully carved altars. The nave is spacious and adorned with numerous Baroque and Renaissance artworks, including the remarkable Baroque organ.

One of the most famous elements of the Church of Our Lady before Týn is the stunning main altar, which dates back to the 17th century. The altar is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance sculpture, depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and Jesus. It’s a true feast for the eyes and a testament to the talent of the artists who created it.

Visit Notes

First thing to note, photography is not allowed in the church. That, of course, does not stop people, but really we should all be following the rules. They don’t need to let us into their beautiful architectural treasures and it could be taken away from us at any time.

While I thought this church was beautiful, it lacked…. something. I don’t know. This one just didn’t do it for me. It could be the fact that photography is not allowed and I was therefore not as engaged as usual. It just felt… cold. The views of the outside of the church top anything we saw inside, in my opinion.

My daughter is a music lover and is a big fan of the organ here, so I sprang for a postcard so she could have a picture.