Kutná Hora, one of the most beautiful and historically significant cities in the Czech Republic, offers many attractions for tourists. Located about 70 km east of Prague, the city is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, attracting numerous visitors. Here are some of the most important places to visit while on vacation in Kutná Hora:
Church of St. Barbara (Chrám svaté Barbory)
The Church of St. Barbara is one of the finest examples of Gothic sacral architecture in the Czech Republic. The construction of the church began in 1388 and was completed only in 1905. The church is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and impresses with its beautiful stained glass windows, sculptures, and stunning architecture. The interior of the church is adorned with frescoes depicting scenes related to the life of miners, highlighting the significance of silver mining in the city’s history.
Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady and St. John the Baptist (Kostel Nanebevzetí Panny Marie a svatého Jana Křtitele)
The Cathedral in Sedlec, built at the beginning of the 14th century, is another masterpiece of Gothic architecture in Kutná Hora. The church was destroyed during the Hussite wars and later rebuilt in the Baroque style by architect Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel. The cathedral is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its beautiful Baroque frescoes and extraordinary architecture.
Sedlec Ossuary (Kostnice)
The Sedlec Ossuary is one of the most unusual and macabre tourist attractions in Kutná Hora. Located in the basement of the cemetery church, it contains the remains of about 40,000 people, which have been artistically arranged into various decorations, such as chandeliers, the Schwarzenberg family coat of arms, and other ornaments. The ossuary was created to commemorate the victims of the Hussite wars and the plague epidemic.
Italian Court (Vlašský dvůr)
The Italian Court was once the administrative and economic center of Kutná Hora, where silver coins minted from locally mined silver were produced. This building served as the royal mint and the residence of Czech kings. Today, the Italian Court is a museum featuring exhibitions on the history of mining and minting, as well as beautiful ceremonial halls that visitors can explore.
Hrádek and the Silver Museum
The Silver Museum is located in the Hrádek building, a former residential and defensive structure. The museum offers rich exhibitions related to the history of silver mining in Kutná Hora. Visitors can see mining tools, mine models, and learn about the process of silver extraction and processing. One of the main attractions is the opportunity to descend into an authentic medieval silver mine, where the atmosphere of past miners’ work can be experienced.
Historical Center
Strolling through the historical center of Kutná Hora, one can admire beautiful historic townhouses, narrow streets, and charming squares. The city center hosts many cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops, creating a pleasant atmosphere for sightseeing and relaxation. An important spot is also the Market Square (náměstí), where various cultural events and fairs take place.
Jesuit College (Jezuitská kolej)
Built in the 17th century, the Jesuit College was once the seat of the Jesuit order, which aimed to promote education and culture in the region. The building is an impressive example of Baroque architecture and now houses the Central Bohemia Gallery (Galerie Středočeského kraje), which hosts contemporary art exhibitions.
Kaňk Nature Reserve
For nature lovers and walkers, the Kaňk Nature Reserve offers picturesque landscapes and hiking and biking trails. The reserve is an ideal place for relaxation and connecting with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Kutná Hora, with its rich history and cultural heritage, offers a unique and enriching experience for every visitor. Whether you are interested in historical architecture, art, or nature, this charming city has something to offer for everyone.
