Stunning St. Nicholas Church (Kostel sv. Mikuláše) at the Old Town Square was completed in 1735. It replaced a parish church mentioned in records dating back to 1273. St. Nicholas is a Baroque church, the interior of which was inspired by the chapel of St. Louis-des-invalides in Paris. The delicate stucco decoration was executed by Bernardo Spinetti, and the frescos by Peter Adam the Elder. The sculptures are by Antonín Braun. In 1781, the decoration in St. Nicholas was removed after emperor Josef II ordered the closure of all monasteries without a social function. Then, in 1870, St. Nicholas became Russian Orthodox. During the Second World War, Czech army units stationed at St. Nicholas were set to work restoring the church, working alongside professional artists. Much of what we see today is thanks to their meticulous efforts. After the war, St. Nicholas became a Czechoslovak Hussite Church, which it remains today. Although St. Nicholas is one of the most significant buildings in the Old Town Square, it was not until 1901 when the Krenn House in front of it was demolished, that the church's stunning façade became visible to the rest of the square. Regular services are held at St. Nicholas. It is also a magnificent venue for classical concerts, which are staged early evening several times a week. In winter, St. Nicholas Church is heated. For the concerts, the seating has heated cushions, but it is still advisable to wear warm clothing. View listings and book concert tickets. -----------------------------------------------
To explore the sights in Prague, take a Prague tour. |