Kutná Hora: Historical Town Centre with the Church of St Barbara and the Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec in Czechia

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Kutná Hora

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1995
Size of heritage: 62 ha
- Buffer zone: 650 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 15,267°
Latitude: 49,950°

Summary

Kutná Hora developed as a result of the exploitation of the silver mines. In the 14th century it became a royal city endowed with monuments that symbolized its prosperity. The Church of St Barbara, a jewel of the late Gothic period, and the Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec, which was restored in line with the Baroque taste of the early 18th century, were to influence the architecture of central Europe. These masterpieces today form part of a well-preserved medieval urban fabric with some particularly fine private dwellings.

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Kutná Hora: Historical Town Centre with the Church of St Barbara and the Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec

Kutná Hora, located in the City and District of Kutná Hora in the Central Bohemian Region of Czechia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its historical town centre, the Church of St Barbara, and the Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec. This exceptional site showcases the rich history and architectural beauty of the region.

History

Kutná Hora's history dates back to the 13th century when it became a significant silver mining center, rivaling Prague in wealth and importance. The town's prosperity led to the construction of magnificent Gothic buildings, which still stand today as a testament to its glorious past.

The Church of St Barbara, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, was built in the 14th century. Dedicated to the patron saint of miners, it served as a place of worship for the miners and their families. The church's stunning interior features intricate vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained glass windows, and exquisite frescoes, all showcasing the artistic achievements of the time.

The Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec, located in the nearby suburb of Sedlec, is another remarkable structure within the UNESCO site. Originally a small chapel, it was expanded into a grand cathedral in the 14th century. The cathedral's most famous feature is the Sedlec Ossuary, also known as the "Bone Church." This unique chapel is adorned with the bones of approximately 40,000 people, arranged in elaborate patterns, creating a macabre yet awe-inspiring sight.

Current State

Today, Kutná Hora's historical town centre, along with the Church of St Barbara and the Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec, continue to captivate visitors from around the world. The town's well-preserved medieval architecture and charming cobblestone streets create an enchanting atmosphere, transporting visitors back in time.

The Church of St Barbara remains an active place of worship, hosting religious services and cultural events. Its stunning interior and exterior make it a popular destination for art and architecture enthusiasts. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the church's facade, including its ornate spires and delicate stone carvings.

The Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec, with its Bone Church, is a unique and thought-provoking attraction. The ossuary's bone decorations, meticulously arranged into chandeliers, coats of arms, and even a bone pyramidal structure, offer a hauntingly beautiful experience.

Address
Distance: 6,5 mi
Na Petríne 991
280 02 Kolín
Czechia

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Veteran Rallye Kutná Hora 2014

Published: August 17, 2014
Length: 05:39 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Milan Volejník

The Plague Monument, Kutná Hora, Czech Republic

Published: July 29, 2011
Length: 13:55 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: GypsyNester

With a coded message, stunning 50 foot baroque memorial for 6146 plague victims. http://www.gypsynester.com/kh.htm We'd love to see you around the Web! Are you on Facebook? We are too! Join...

Tours-TV.com: Kutna Hora

Published: November 30, 2014
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: ToursTV Com

Kutná Hora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the most important buildings are the Gothic, five-naved St. Barbara's Church, Italian Court, formerly ...

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Published: May 29, 2011
Length: 48:09 min
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2011.04.17 ( Kutna Hora )

Eating in the Czech Republic

Published: September 07, 2011
Length: 53:53 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: GypsyNester

Dumplings, goulash, sauerkraut and MEAT! Oh, and delish street food...mmmmmm! For more: http://www.gypsynester.com/czechplease.htm We'd love to see you around the Web! Are you on Facebook ...