Kutná Hora

Overview

Kutná Hora became one of the richest cities in central Europe in the 14th century thanks to its silver mines, and was known as the twin city of Prague. St Barbara's Church is a Gothic masterpiece, while the nearby Sedlec Ossuary, decorated with the bones of some 40,000 people, is the most unusual sight in the Czech Republic and leaves a deep impression on every visitor.

History

Silver was discovered here in the 13th century, and by the 14th century the town was minting the Prague groschen and rivalling Prague in wealth. The Sedlec Ossuary originated when a monk began arranging bones from the cemetery in the 16th century; the present arrangement was created in 1870 by the woodcarver František Rint. The town was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1995.

Highlights

• •The Sedlec Ossuary, or bone church
• •St Barbara's Church
• •The Italian Court

Practical tips

• •Combine both churches on one ticket
• •About an hour from Prague by train

Practical information

Best time

April to October

Tickets

About CZK 200

Opening hours

Varies by attraction

Local food

Roast pork knuckle, bread dumplings and Pilsner beer

Getting around

Prague is the hub; Kutná Hora is about an hour away by train

Visa

The Czech Republic is in the Schengen area and requires a short-stay Schengen visa. Appointments are tight in peak season for popular cities such as Prague, so apply early.

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