10 Things to Do in St. Bartholomew's Cathedral (Cathedral Tour) Plzeň Czech Republic
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, or Katedrála svatého Bartoloměje, is the main church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Plzeň and one of the most beautiful and historically significant churches in the Czech Republic. Located in the city of Plzeň, the Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been a major part of the city’s history since its construction began in 1350. A visit to the Cathedral is a must for anyone visiting the Czech Republic, and here are 10 things to do when you visit.
1. Explore the Interior
The interior of St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and stained glass windows. The main altar is a masterpiece of Gothic sculpture, and the side chapels are beautifully decorated with paintings and sculptures.
2. Look at the Artwork
The Cathedral is home to a number of works of art, including a painting of the Last Supper by the renowned Czech painter Jan Kalvoda, a series of paintings by the Renaissance master Peter Parler, and a beautiful baroque altarpiece by the sculptor František Xaver Lederer.
3. Climb the Tower
The Cathedral’s tower is one of the tallest in the Czech Republic, and visitors can climb to the top for spectacular views of the city. The climb is not for the faint of heart – there are more than 200 steps – but the views from the top are definitely worth it.
4. Visit the Crypt
The Crypt of St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral is a must-see. It is the final resting place of the city’s most famous citizens, including the composer Bedřich Smetana and the writer Jan Neruda.
5. Attend a Concert
The Cathedral is home to a beautiful pipe organ, and regular concerts take place in the church. These concerts are a great way to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Cathedral.
6. Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours of the Cathedral are available, and are a great way to learn about the history and architecture of the building. The tours usually last around an hour, and include a visit to the tower and crypt.
7. Explore the Surroundings
The Cathedral is located in the center of the city, and is surrounded by a number of other attractions, including the Town Hall, the Plague Column, and the Renaissance-style St. Ignatius Church.
8. Visit the Cathedral Museum
The Cathedral Museum is located in the former chapter house of the Cathedral, and is home to a number of religious artifacts, including a collection of liturgical vestments and a 16th-century crucifix.
9. Try the Local Cuisine
Plzeň is known for its beer, and there are a number of pubs and restaurants near the Cathedral that serve traditional Czech dishes.
10. Shop for Souvenirs
The Cathedral is surrounded by a number of souvenir shops, where you can pick up a memento of your visit.
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral is a must-see for anyone visiting the Czech Republic. The Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and its interior is filled with beautiful works of art. Whether you’re looking to explore the history of the city, attend a concert, or just take in the beauty of the building, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral is a must-visit.