Church of Our Lady before Týn Prague
A 14th-century Gothic masterpiece with iconic twin spires, dominating Prague's Old Town Square.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Church of Our Lady before Týn Prague
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 14th-century Gothic masterpiece with iconic twin spires, dominating Prague's Old Town Square.
"The twin spires of Týn Church light up the night and my memories of Prague."
📸 Capture the Night View
The twin spires are breathtaking when illuminated at night. Perfect for photographers!
🚶♂️ Explore the Old Town
The church is a central part of the historic Old Town Square, so explore the surrounding area too.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Twin Gothic Spires
Exterior
Iconic 80-meter towers that dominate the Prague skyline, especially beautiful when lit at night.
Baroque Altarpiece
Interior
A magnificent Baroque altarpiece, a stunning contrast to the Gothic architecture of the church.
Ornately Carved Exteriors
Exterior
Intricate Gothic carvings adorn the church's facade, showcasing centuries of craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Architectural Marvel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Night View
The twin spires are breathtaking when illuminated at night. Perfect for photographers!
🚶♂️ Explore the Old Town
The church is a central part of the historic Old Town Square, so explore the surrounding area too.
🕰️ Admire the History
This 14th-century church has witnessed centuries of history. Appreciate its ancient architecture.
✨ Don't Miss the Interior
Step inside to marvel at the grand Baroque altarpiece and Gothic details.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Night View
The twin spires are breathtaking when illuminated at night. Perfect for photographers!
🚶♂️ Explore the Old Town
The church is a central part of the historic Old Town Square, so explore the surrounding area too.
🕰️ Admire the History
This 14th-century church has witnessed centuries of history. Appreciate its ancient architecture.
✨ Don't Miss the Interior
Step inside to marvel at the grand Baroque altarpiece and Gothic details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Church of Our Lady before Týn's magnificent Gothic architecture and its iconic twin spires, especially when illuminated at night. While the interior is also appreciated for its Baroque altarpiece, some find the church can be quite crowded, impacting the serene experience.
"One of the most recognizable symbols of Prague. Its Gothic spires rise above the Old Town Square and create a fabulous atmosphere of a medieval city.
The temple has a centuries-old history, inside there is silence, grandeur and ancient tombs. The famous astronomer Tycho Brahe is buried here.
Even if you don’t go inside, just looking at it at night is an unforgettable impression."
Мария Наливайко
"Old Town Hall (left) and Church of Our Lady before Týn (right). I've spent hours trying to learn more about this distinctive style of Gothic architecture, of a central spire with four turrets in the corners. It seems to be unique to Bohemia, so I want to call it Bohemian Gothic."
Mazhar Abbas
"Really impressive church which is difficult to appreciate properly because of all of the buildings that surround it.
It's definitely worth going inside, if you can find the entrance.
We found one entrance down a little side street and then via a small shop.
It would have been nice to get some photos of the inside, but we were asked not to take any."
Steve
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of Our Lady before Týn is centrally located in Prague's Old Town Square. You can easily reach it by walking from most central Prague locations. If coming from further afield, take tram lines 2, 3, 14, 18, 24 to the Dlouhá třída stop, or metro line B to Náměstí Republiky and walk a short distance.
Yes, its distinctive twin spires make it very easy to spot from afar within the Old Town Square. It's a prominent landmark that's hard to miss.
The most scenic approach is through the charming, narrow streets of the Old Town, emerging into the bustling Old Town Square where the church stands majestically.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Old Town Square is very limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or walk if staying centrally.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main part of the church is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Some specific areas or towers might have separate admission fees.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the church is open daily, often from mid-morning to early evening. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most current times, especially around holidays.
Access to the towers is usually available, offering panoramic views of Prague. There is typically a fee for tower access, and it's a good idea to check availability beforehand.
While the main nave is often free to enter, there might be a small fee for specific exhibits or tower climbs. Donations are always welcome to help with upkeep.
To experience the church with fewer people, aim for early mornings right after opening or late afternoons before closing. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
📸 📸 Photography
The Old Town Square offers fantastic vantage points for capturing the church's facade and spires. For night shots, the square provides a dramatic backdrop with the church illuminated.
Photography is usually permitted inside, but it's always respectful to check for any signage or ask church staff. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography during services.
The 'blue hour' just after sunset or before sunrise offers magical lighting for the spires. Daytime provides good light for architectural details on the facade.
The iconic twin spires are a must-capture. Also, look for details in the Gothic carvings and the grandeur of the Baroque altarpiece inside.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The church is a prime example of Gothic architecture, with later Baroque additions, most notably its grand altarpiece. Its construction began in the 14th century.
Built on the site of a 12th-century church, its construction started in the 14th century. It has been a significant religious and historical site in Prague for centuries, witnessing many historical events.
The two prominent 80-meter towers are iconic features of the Prague skyline and a defining element of the church's Gothic design.
Inside, you'll find a magnificent Baroque altarpiece, numerous chapels, and impressive Gothic vaulting. It's a space rich with art and history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a game of spotting the intricate carvings on the exterior, or talk about the history of knights and castles that the Gothic style often evokes. The surrounding Old Town Square also provides space for kids to move around and enjoy street performers, making it a well-rounded outing.
📸 Photographers
The intricate details of the facade also offer excellent opportunities for close-up shots during the day. Experiment with different angles from within the Old Town Square to get the best composition. Don't forget to venture inside to photograph the dramatic Baroque altarpiece and the soaring Gothic ceilings. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
This landmark has stood for centuries, witnessing the ebb and flow of Prague's history. The buildings in front of the church are actually older, dating back to the 13th century, and were once part of a school and a smaller church. This layered history adds to the profound sense of time and place when you visit.
For those interested in architecture, the Týn Church offers a rich study in Gothic and Baroque styles. The sheer scale and detail of the construction are awe-inspiring, making it a must-see for any visitor to Prague's Old Town Square.
Experiencing the Old Town Square
Visiting the church provides a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Old Town. After admiring the church's exterior and interior, you can wander through the square, perhaps enjoying a traditional Czech pastry or simply people-watching. The church's imposing presence adds a dramatic backdrop to the lively square.
Many visitors find that the best way to experience the Týn Church is by combining it with a broader exploration of the Old Town. This allows you to appreciate its historical context and enjoy the full charm of Prague's historic heart.
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