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St. Bartholomew's Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece in Pilsen

Climb the tallest church tower in Czechia for stunning panoramic views. Discover Gothic architecture & the iconic Pilsen Madonna.

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Dominating Pilsen's Republic Square, St. Bartholomew's Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic. Construction began in the 13th century, with the tower reaching its current height of 102.6 meters in the 19th century. Visitors can climb the nearly 300 stairs to the top for panoramic views of Pilsen and the surrounding region.

A brief summary to Church Tower

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Climb the tower for panoramic views of Pilsen; the last entry is at 18:00.
  • Don't miss the Pilsen Madonna, a Gothic statue from the late 14th century.
  • Touch the small angel on the rear grating for good luck.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Republic Square, the Church Tower is easily accessible on foot as it's located directly on the square. Simply walk towards the tallest structure, St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, in the center of the square. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by tram or bus, the nearest stop is 'Náměstí Republiky'. From there, the Church Tower is a short walk across Republic Square. Public transport tickets cost CZK 24 for 30 minutes, CZK 28 for 60 minutes.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available in the city center, including indoor parking at Rychtářka and Nové divadlo. Parking fees range from CZK 10-20 per hour. From the parking garages, it's a short walk to Republic Square and the Church Tower.

Unlock the Best of Church Tower

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Discover more about Church Tower

St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, a prominent landmark in Pilsen, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural prowess. Construction of the Gothic-style cathedral began in 1295, coinciding with the city's founding, and continued into the early 16th century. In 1993, it was elevated to cathedral status when Pope John Paul II established a bishopric in Pilsen. The cathedral's tower, the tallest in the Czech Republic at 102.6 meters, offers breathtaking views. After ascending the nearly 300 steps, visitors are rewarded with a panoramic vista of Pilsen and, on clear days, even the Bohemian and Upper Palatine Forests and the Alps. The tower is open daily from 10:00 to 18:30, with last admissions at 18:00. Inside the cathedral, the Pilsen Madonna, a Gothic statue from the late 14th century, is a highlight. The cathedral also features the Sternberg Chapel, a late Gothic chapel with a magnificent Bohemian altar. Another point of interest is the small angel on the iron grating at the rear of the cathedral, believed to bring good luck to those who touch it. The cathedral's architecture showcases a blend of Gothic elements, including the three-part nave and the tall, narrow windows with intricate traceries. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several renovations, including a restoration in the Purist style in the 19th century. Today, St. Bartholomew's Cathedral remains a significant cultural monument and a must-see attraction in Pilsen.

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