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The sky is not completely dark at night. Were the sky absolutely dark, one would not be able to see the silhouette of an object against the sky.
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Gothic Stone Fountain
The dodecagon-shaped stone fountain was most likely created in the late 15th century by a builder named Briccius Gauske from Wrocław, Poland. The town needed the fountain because the extensive mining activity in and around Kutná Hora disrupted the usual sources of underground water. The townsfolk needed a reliable source of drinking water.
This fountain originally had a roof, and served as a reservoir, holding water from a spring 2.5 kilometers away. The water was piped to the fountain via wooden pipes. The fountain continued to supply water until the late 19th century.
Visit Notes
This is a quick stop on your exploration of Kutná Hora. It’s a beautiful construction considering its utilitarian purpose. The stone details around the fountain are impressive. On one side there’s a little window to look inside, and there was an interesting tableau set up in there. I’m not sure if it’s something the town regularly changes, but it was an interesting surprise.
Details
Husova, 284 01 Kutná Hora, Czechia
Photos
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Sedlec Cathedral
(AKA Cathedral of the Assumption of our Lady)
The cathedral’s history dates back to the 12th century when it was originally founded as a small Romanesque chapel. However, it was burned down during the Hussite war in the 15th century and rebuilt in the early 18th century, ultimately transforming into the grand Gothic masterpiece we see today. Its architectural style showcases the skill and craftsmanship of the era, with stunning vaulted ceilings and towering spires.
The cathedral’s interior is flooded with light from large windows and boasts soaring ceilings. Unlike many Gothic cathedrals, this one has a bright and airy feeling that is refreshing.
Visit Notes
Photography is prohibited in the cathedral and they would like you to wear “appropriate clothing”. It seems like they’ve had some problems with people behaving badly and they’ve just had enough. For a full list of the rules pertaining to your visit, please refer to their website. I’m a firm believer in following the rules, even when I don’t agree with them.
The cathedral itself is quite simple when compared to St. Barbara’s. Don’t get me wrong, the architectural elements and scale of this church are impressive, but there just isn’t a lot of detail. It’s a pretty, but kind of boring cathedral (just my opinion, you may disagree). If you’re in town and you have limited time, you should most definitely choose to spend it at St. Barbara’s rather than Sedlec Cathedral. And St. Barbara’s allows you to take pictures, so there’s that.
Details
U Zastávky 280, Sedlec, 284 03 Kutná Hora, Czechia
Monday to Saturday
9:00 – 18:00
Sunday
11:00 – 18:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
© Sedlec Cathedral 
© Sedlec Cathedral 
© Sedlec Cathedral 
© Sedlec Cathedral 
© Sedlec Cathedral Other Sights
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Sedlec Ossuary
(AKA Kostnice Sedlec, The Cemetery Church of All Saints)
The Sedlec Ossuary, located in the town of Kutná Hora, Czech Republic, is a unique and fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, art, or the macabre. Also known as the “Bone Church,” it is a small chapel located beneath the Cemetery Church of All Saints. What sets this place apart is its interior, which is decorated with the bones of an estimated 40,000 to 70,000 people.
Upon entering the Sedlec Ossuary, visitors are immediately greeted by a stunning and somewhat eerie sight. The bones have been artistically arranged to create intricate decorations and architectural features. You’ll find enormous chandeliers made entirely of bones, a coat of arms made of skulls, and bone pyramids adorning the corners of the chapel. It’s a surreal experience to witness such a vast display of human bones integrated into the very structure of the building.
The history of the ossuary dates back to the 13th century when it became a popular burial site due to its location near the Church of All Saints. During the Hussite Wars in the 15th century and the Black Death in the 14th century, thousands of bodies were buried in the cemetery, eventually leading to overcrowding. In the 16th century, a half-blind monk was tasked with exhuming the remains and stacking the bones in the chapel’s crypt. Over time, these bones were transformed into the remarkable displays you can see today.
The Sedlec Ossuary serves as a unique memento mori, a reminder of the transience of life and the inevitability of death. It’s a place that sparks contemplation and offers a glimpse into the historical and cultural significance of mortality. The combination of artistic creativity and the somber ambiance of the chapel creates a truly haunting yet captivating atmosphere.
While the Sedlec Ossuary may not be for the faint of heart, it’s a must-visit for those with an interest in the unconventional, the macabre, or those who simply appreciate art in its most unconventional form. As you explore this bone-filled masterpiece, you’ll undoubtedly be left with lasting impressions and a deeper appreciation for the impermanence of existence.
Visit Notes
First of all, photography is not allowed without advance permission. You can apply for a permit at least three days prior to your visit. If you receive permission, you will stop at the visitor center and pick up your permit before proceeding to the ossuary. And yes, I did receive permission, so all these photos are on the up-and-up. Please respect the rules and either plan ahead and apply for the permit, or settle for not taking any photos.
The ossuary itself is completely fascinating. During our visit they were doing some preservation work and an interesting video was showing, detailing the steps involved. The arrangement of the bones is quite artistic, more so than the other bone churches and ossuaries I’ve visited.
If you aren’t creeped out by bones or the thought of our imminent demise, then you should absolutely stop here.
Details
Zámecká, 284 03 Kutná Hora, Czechia
9:00 – 18:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
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Plague Column
(AKA Column of the Virgin Mary Immaculate)
The Plague Column was erected in the early 18th century in the central square of Kutná Hora, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The column stands tall and majestic, reaching a height of about 27 meters (89 feet), making it an imposing sight in the town.
The column is composed of several elements, each carrying symbolic meaning. At the top of the column is a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary, known as the Our Lady of Sorrows. She is depicted with a sorrowful expression, holding a crucifix and surrounded by angels. This statue represents hope, faith, and solace during times of great suffering and despair.
Descending down the column, you’ll notice numerous decorative sculptures and reliefs. These intricate carvings depict scenes from the plague, including skeletal figures and suffering individuals, as well as various saints and biblical figures associated with healing and protection. The detailed craftsmanship of these sculptures is truly remarkable and adds a sense of depth and emotion to the monument.
The Plague Column was built as an expression of gratitude for the town’s survival and recovery from the devastating plague epidemic that struck Kutná Hora in the 17th century. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the people and their enduring faith in the face of adversity.
Beyond its historical and artistic significance, the Plague Column offers visitors a unique opportunity to reflect on the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit. It serves as a solemn reminder of the hardships our ancestors endured and the strength they found in unity and faith.
Visit Notes
I was impressed with the statues adorning this monument. Because of my obsession with carved stone, I spent quite a bit of time examining and photographing this monument. Even if you only spend a few minutes admiring it while walking through town, it’s worth stopping by.
Details
Šultysova, 284 01 Kutná Hora, Czechia
Photos
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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.
Oh and, just out of curiosity, who put Jesus in a time out?
Details
Barborská, 284 01 Kutná Hora, Czechia
9:00 – 18:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
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