Religious Sites in Czech Republic

When visiting the Czech Republic, you will find that the country has very strong religious ties and places of pilgrimage. In fact, much of the architectural heritage of this great country is based on monasteries, chapels, and again, pilgrimage places, which include various religions such as Jewish, Christian Orthodox, and Roman Catholic. The architecture in the Czech Republic in relation to religion is so incredible with much of it dating back thousands of years.

History tells us that Christianity showed up in Bohemia sometime during the 9th century, which was later adopted by Prince Borivoj and his lovely wife, Ludmila. Soon, the first monasteries and churches were built. However, during the Hussite movement known as Hussitism, worshipping in the Catholic Church was stopped. It was not until the 18th century when the Catholic Church was again reauthorized. During the Marian Cult, churches and monasteries grew rapidly and today, more than 300 have been carefully preserved.


Sadly, the Czech Republic was damaged by various wars and fires and many of the beloved monuments did not survive. One of the most incredible churches in the Czech Republic is found in the town of Kutna Hora. There, you will find one of the most interesting and eerie places on earth – the Ossuary, which translates to “bone house.” This small church is designed and decorated with the bones of 40,000 people. However, the detailing is truly magnificent and in a strange way, beautiful as seen in the photograph to the right.

The Jewish people have long worshipped in the Czech Republic, starting from the medieval period forward. You can visit two synagogues and a cemetery in Trebic, which is one of only a few Jewish sites not destroyed by the Nazis. Historians believe the first synagogues were simple wooden buildings that were later changed to stone. Today, the oldest standing synagogue is the Old-New Synagogue located in Prague that has been standing since the 13th century.

The city of Trebic is a great place to visit, offering a number of unusual religious sights. For example, there is the Romanesque-Gothic Basilica of St. Procope, which was originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary. However, after the devastation of war, this particular church was used primarily for secular purposes for more than 200 years. At that time, the church underwent renovation and again became a religious site.

Included in this church is a crypt that has ceiling timber dating more than 700 years old. In addition, the presbytery is vaulted by cross-stone vaults and in the eastern section of the apse and north part of the portal, there is a rose window. As you can imagine, the church is magnificent and an incredible experience. Keep in mind that this church is just one of hundreds, each unique and fascinating.

In Boskovice, a Baroque synagogue stands preserved along with other Gothic and Renaissance buildings. In all, more than 200 synagogues have been preserved for the public to enjoy. In fact, there are two such synagogues in Prague and one in the city of Brno that still offer divine services for the communities. Finally, there is the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk at Zelena Hora. This church was built in the memory of the Czech martyr and saint by the name of John of Nepomuk.

As you travel throughout the Czech Republic, you will find these and many other religious sites, showing you just how strong and important religion was and still is for the people of this country. Regardless of the specific religion, each is heartwarming, telling a special story of survival and beliefs. If you enjoy history, specifically learning about religious sites, the Czech Republic has many wonderful opportunities.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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