Ss. Cyril and Methodius Church: A Testament to Faith and Resistance

Located on Karlínské náměstí, the Ss. Cyril and Methodius Church is a prominent landmark in Prague's Karlín district. Built in the mid-19th century (1854-1863), this Roman Catholic church is one of the largest religious buildings in the Czech Republic and a significant example of historicist architecture. The church was consecrated on October 18, 1863, marking the 1000th anniversary of Cyril and Methodius' arrival in Bohemia. The church was designed in the Neo-Romanesque style as a basilica with a high nave and two towers. The interior features decorative pillars, intricately painted ceilings, and a baptismal chapel in the Art Nouveau style. Originally built as the Church of St. Charles Borromeo between 1730 and 1740, the church was designed by Kilian Ignac Dientzenhofer and Pavel Ignác Bayer. In 1785, it was converted into a military depot and barracks. In 1935, it was re-established as a church and dedicated to Ss. Cyril and Methodius. The church is also known for its role during World War II, when it served as a hiding place for Czech paratroopers who assassinated Reinhard Heydrich, a high-ranking Nazi official. The crypt of the church became their refuge until they were discovered by the Nazis. The paratroopers fought bravely, but eventually, to avoid capture, they took their own lives. The crypt now serves as a memorial to these heroes. Bullet holes are still visible in the walls. Today, the Ss. Cyril and Methodius Church serves as the main Orthodox church in the Czech Republic. Regular services and occasional classical music concerts are held here.