Not to be confused with the Cathedral of St. Vitus in Prague’s Hradčany Castle District, the Church of St. Vitus lies in the medieval town of Cesky Krumlov, three hours south of the capital. Sited in the grounds of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Krumlov Castle, the second largest castle in the Czech Republic, visiting the Church of St Vitus is a popular pastime for visitors and day-trippers from Prague.
Built back in 1340 by German architect Linhart of Aldenberk, the church underwent extensive redevelopment at the turn of the 15th century and its gothic façade is one of the town’s most memorable architectural works. Reminiscent of Prague’s cathedral, the church’s most striking feature is its octagonal neo-gothic bell tower and the looming spire, along with the neighboring tower of Krumlov Castle, have long framed the iconic skyline of the Cesky Krumlov, thought to be symbolic of the power balance between religion and the monarchy. Today, the church hosts a number of classical and choral concerts along with its regular services and is most notable for its beautifully preserved series of 15th-century frescoes, as well as housing the elbow bone of St John of Nepomuk.
