Chrám svaté Barbory (St. Barbara's Cathedral)

Chrám svaté Barbory (St. Barbara's Cathedral) Review

Getting to this beautiful cathedral is nearly as pleasurable as a visit to the Gothic church itself. It's about a 10-minute walk from the main Palackého námestí along a road lined with baroque statues where you can gaze at the surrounding countryside and watch the massive shape of the cathedral come closer. From afar, the church resembles a grand circus tent more than a religious center. As the jewel in Kutná Hora's crown, it's a highpoint of Gothic style, although through the centuries there have been alterations and improvements. Barbara's was started in the late 1300s; it drew on the talents of the Peter Parler workshop as well as two luminaries of the late 15th century, Matyás Rejsek and Benedikt Ried. Upon entering, look up. The soaring ceiling is one of the church's most impressive features. It was added in 1558, and replaced and restored in the late 1800s. If you walk to the western façade, you'll see a lovely view over the town and the visibly leaning tower of St. James's Church.

St. Barbara is the patron saint of miners, and glimpses of this profession can be seen throughout the interior, including Gothic frescoes of angels carrying shields with mining symbols. There's also a special Mintner's Chapel, which holds a statue of a miner, a novelty for its time.