Plzen Cathedral

Exterior view of Plzen Cathedral. Photo Michal Reichl.

Vault

Gothic lierne vault inside the cathedral. Photo clarkworldtravel.

Apse

Apse with rood cross and painted vault. Photo clarkworldtravel.

Statue of the Madonna. Photo © City of Plzen.

Dominating the center of the Plzen town square is the Gothic Cathedral of St. Bartholomew (katedrála sv. Bartoloměje).

History

Plzen Cathedral was built in 1292. In 1993 Pope John Paul II raised the status of Plzeň to a bishopric, making the Church of St. Bartholomew thereby became a cathedral.

What to See

The Cathedral of St. Bartholomew is small for a cathedral (since it was not intended to be one) but it has the tallest spire in the Czech Republic at 100m (333 ft). It can be climbed for a fine view of the city.

Inside, highlights include the Gothic lierne vault and the beautiful marble Madonna of 1390 on the main altar. The Šternberk Chapel, built during the first half of 16th century, is decorated with Renaissance wall paintings. It was restored from ruins during 20th century.

Quick Facts

Site Information
Names:	Plzen Cathedral
Location:	Plzen, Czech Republic
Faith:	Christianity
Denomination:	Catholic
Dedication:	St. Bartholomew
Category:	Cathedrals
Architecture:	Gothic
Date:	1292
Status:	active
Visitor Information
Coordinates:	49.747404° N, 13.377593° E (view on Google Maps)
Lodging:	View hotels near this location

Note: This information was accurate when published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

Travel Resources

Plzen Map - our detailed interactive map of Plzen, plus hand-picked links to more
Plzen Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, and book at the guaranteed lowest price

Location Map

Below is a location map and aerial view of Plzen Cathedral. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. For a larger view, see our Plzen Map.

Article Sources

Cathedral of St Bartholomew - Wikipedia
St Bartholomew's Church - City of Plzen
Virtual 360° Tour of St Bartholomew's Church - Virtual Travel

Last updated on July 22, 2009.

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