What a splendid cathedral...if you like Art Nouveau then this spot's your jam!…read more
Looking back on my photos, it makes me wish I was there in person examining all the colorful romantic paintings that adorn its walls! Compared to many European cathedrals that are often decorated in more austere or florid styles, it's such a refreshing breath air to see this flowing, softer style represented in religious architecture. There is a comparative abundance of botanical and feminine motifs compared to your traditional story board layouts and patriarchal focus, I appreciated its more modern perspective.
Founded by King Vratislav II between 1070-80 as a Romanesque basilica it was damaged in 1249 from a fire, rebuilt in a Gothic style, then again in a Baroque style in the 1720s. The current version constructed between 1887 and 1903 was built in a neo-Gothic style, and was begun by architect Josef Mocker, though altered and completed by František Mikš with pseudo-Gothic towers added at the front of the building in 1902.
Surrounding the basilica is Vyšehrad fortress, now a public park (separate review coming later) and behind it is the Vyšehrad cemetery. This is the final resting place of many famous Czechs, including author Karel Čapek and composer Antonín Dvořák. Open to the public, it's worth taking a stroll to admire the myriad gravestones--they exude a peaceful elegance and dignity--and taking a moment of reflection for the ones resting here. It's astonishing (though not altogether surprising given how long they've been around) to see the wide range of artistic styles sculpted and inscribed onto the stones and walls.
Inside the church's interior there are remnants from different centuries, both in the architectural details like the Gothic main and side altars, stained glass windows, and artwork--like a Baroque painting depicting the fortress area in 1420. The most prominent displays of art are the richly colored ornamental paintings and tracery by painters František Urban and his wife Marie, added in 1902-3, in the Art Nouveau style of Alphonse Mucha.
Tickets are 130 CZK for adults, 70 CZK reduced, 250 CZK for families. The church holds regular masses; for times see their website kkvys.cz
What a special treat to visit! Would love to come back again if I go back to Prague.