St. Bartholomew's Cathedral stands on Republic Square in the centre of Plzeň. Its Gothic tower is about 102 meters high, the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic. Entry to the church is free. Inside, high vaulted ceilings, stained glass and statues near the main altar draw the eye, and the 14th-century Plzeň Madonna is displayed there. Climbing the tower takes about 300 steps and ends with views over the old town and the wider West Bohemian region.
From the founding of the city to 1993
The church was built alongside the city in the late 13th century. Building continued through the Hussite Wars and was finished in the early 16th century.
The church was first dedicated to St. Bartholomew. It became a cathedral in 1993, when the Plzeň diocese was created. It is a registered national heritage landmark.
Inside the cathedral
The ceiling is built with high rib vaults, and the ribs meet in patterns above the nave. Stained glass fills the windows, and statues stand in front of the glass near the altar.
The Plzeň Madonna, a 14th-century Gothic statue of the Virgin Mary, is placed on the main altar. A Baroque altar also stands in the church, and frescoes are noted in the interior.
The interior has been renovated in recent years, the first renovation in about 100 years. The exterior has been under restoration, so scaffolding may cover parts of the building.
Climbing the tower
The tower is about 102 meters high. About 300 steps lead to the top, and the stairs are narrow in places. The climb calls for patience and steady walking.
From the top, you look over Plzeň's rooftops and the countryside around the city. On clear days, the view reaches the Bohemian Forest, and some visitors see as far as the Alps.
Getting there and around
The cathedral is on Republic Square, right next to the Pilsen tourism information centre. The walk from the train station takes about 20 minutes.
The entrance is wheelchair accessible, and the site has restrooms. Winter visitors have found a Christmas market set up outside the cathedral.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee?
The church interior is free to enter. Climbing the tower costs 110 CZK for adults and 60 CZK for children.
Do I need tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended for a visit to the cathedral.
Is the cathedral wheelchair accessible?
The entrance is wheelchair accessible. The tower can only be reached by about 300 steps.
Can you see the Plzeň Madonna?
Yes. The 14th-century Gothic statue of the Virgin Mary stands on the main altar.
