St. Bartholomew Cathedral
Katedrála svatého Bartoloměje
A Gothic cathedral in the center of Republic Square. Its tower, about 102 m high, is the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic, and climbing its 301 steps offers views over the entire city.
The cathedral was begun in 1295. Its interior preserves the 14th-century Plzeň Madonna and exquisite Gothic vaulting, and the high altar and stained-glass windows are worth a close look. The north tower is about 102 m high. Climbing 301 steps brings you to a viewing gallery at about 62 m, where you can see the brewery and the hills of western Bohemia in the distance. The angel heads on the iron fence around the church are said to bring good luck to anyone who touches them. The cathedral is free or charges a token fee, and climbing the tower costs about 150 CZK. Opening hours are shorter in winter.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–18:00 (shorter in winter; some Monday slots closed)
Nearby sights
- Republic Square & Town Hall
- Puppet Museum
- Franciscan Monastery & Church of the Assumption
- West Bohemian Museum
- Plzeň Historical Underground
- Brewery Museum
- Patton Memorial Pilsen
- Great Synagogue of Plzeň