Prague 1, Malostranske nam.
One of the most famous Prague's tourist attractions in Lesser Town.
This church, built in the period 1703-61, is the most significant historical structure of the so-called Prague Baroque. The architects were G. Santini, K. I. Dienzenhofer, and A. Lurago.
History: There has been a church on this site since the 12th century. It was the Old Town's parish church until Tyn church was completed in the 14th century. The church that stands there today by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer was completed in 1735 and is the most significant historical structure of the Prague Baroque.
The belfry offers a view of the Lesser Town and an exposition "Music of Prague Lofts is situated there."
W. A. Mozart played the organ here during his stay in Prague.
The church of St. Nicholas divides and dominates the two sections of Little Quarter Square. Building began in 1703; and the last touches were put to the glorious frescoed nave in 1761. It is the acknowledged masterpiece of father-and-son architects Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, Prague's greatest exponents of High Baroque, although neither lived to see the completion of the church. The statues, frescoes and paintings inside the church are by leading artists of the day, and include a fine Crucifixion of 1646 by Karel Skreta. Extensive renovation in the 1950s reversed the damage caused by 200 years of leaky cladding and condensation.
Opening hours:
The Church: daily: 9 a.m.-4.30 p.m.
The Belfry: April-October: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.,
November-March Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m
Admission:
Adult: 30,- CZK
Important facts about the church:
Height of the cupola: 50 m inside; 70 m outside; 79 m with the clerestory
Tambour diameter: 20 m outside; 17 m inside
Width of the church: 40 m
Width of the nave: 30 m
Length of the church: 60 m (without the stairs)
Triumphal arc between the church and the presbytery: 24 m, depth 24 m
Surface area of the murals: 3000 m2
Depth of the basement: 14.5 m