Saint Vitus Cathedral

This unique Gothic construction is one of the largest and most important cathedrals in Prague. The official name of this historic monument is St. Vitus, Wenceslas and Adalbert Cathedral. It is located in the third courtyard of Prague Castle.

In the past, Czech Royal coronations took place in the cathedral, as well as regular religious services, which are still held there. St. Vitus Cathedral also contains tombs of prominent kings, archbishops, noblemen, and patron saints.

Useful information for visitors

Address: III. nádvoří 48/2, Prague 1 - Hradčany
GPS: 50.09090310, 14.40063720
Saint Vitus Cathedral map

Public transport connections

Pražský hrad tram stop
Malostranská bus stop, tram stop, metro station (green line)

Opening hours and admission

St. Vitus Cathedral can be visited on the Circuit A and Circuit B tours of Prague Castle. A separate tour of the cathedral is not offered.

Circuit A includes: the Old Royal Palace, an exhibition entitled “The Story of Prague Castle”, St. George’s Basilica, the Golden Lane, the Powder Tower, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Rosenberg Palace

Admission 350 CZK
Discount admission* 175 CZK
Family admission** 700 CZK

Circuit B includes: the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, the Golden Lane, and St. Vitus Cathedral

Admission 250 CZK
Discount admission* 125 CZK
Family admission** 500 CZK

*Discount applies to children aged 6–16, students under 26, and seniors over 65.

**Family admission is for 2 adults with 1-5 children under 16.

more informations about tickets here

Opening hours

Summer season: 1st April–31st October

Monday-Saturday: 9:00am-5:00pm

Sunday: 12:00am-5:00pm

Winter season: 1st November–31st March

Monday-Saturday: 9:00am-16:00pm

Sunday: 12:00am-4:00pm

Last entry is 20 minutes before closing time.

Interesting facts about Saint Vitus Cathedral

Security

Personal security checks are carried out. Delays can be expected.

History

In 925, Prince Wenceslas founded a pre-Romanesque rotunda on the site, which was later replaced by a Romanesque basilica. The first foundation stone of St. Vitus Cathedral was laid in 1344 under the commission of King Charles IV. Construction of the cathedral was not completed until 1929 when it was solemnly consecrated.

Interior

St. Vitus Cathedral is entered through a bronze door decorated with historical reliefs in the western façade opposite the passage between the second and third courtyards. The Golden Gate, a ceremonial entrance to the cathedral, is located in the third courtyard. The main neo-Gothic part of the cathedral consists of the main nave and narrow side aisles with chapels on both sides. In front of the main altar is the Royal Mausoleum beneath which is the royal. The magnificently decorated Wenceslas Chapel is the heart of the cathedral and contains the tomb of the patron saint, St. Wenceslas. The Crown Chamber, where the Bohemian Coronation Jewels are kept, lies next to the Wenceslas Chapel.

Nearby historical sights