
Church of St. James the Greater Prague
A stunning Baroque church in Prague, famed for its opulent interior and the chilling legend of a mummified hand.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Church of St. James the Greater Prague
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Baroque church in Prague, famed for its opulent interior and the chilling legend of a mummified hand.
"A unique blend of Baroque grandeur and a truly unforgettable, eerie legend."

Look Up for the Hand! 😮
Don't forget to look up! The famous mummified arm is a unique sight you won't want to miss.
Organ's Majestic Sound 🎶
Try to catch a moment when the church's historic organ is played; it's truly powerful.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mummified Hand
Hanging from the ceiling
A 400-year-old mummified arm, a chilling and unforgettable sight that sparks urban legends.

Baroque Interior
Main nave
Immerse yourself in the opulent Baroque design, featuring rich decorations and stunning artwork.

Historic Organ
Choir loft
Experience the grandeur of one of Prague's largest organs, with a history dating back to 1705.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Mummified Hand Mystery
Baroque Grandeur & Organ Music
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Look Up for the Hand! 😮
Don't forget to look up! The famous mummified arm is a unique sight you won't want to miss.
Organ's Majestic Sound 🎶
Try to catch a moment when the church's historic organ is played; it's truly powerful.
Baroque Beauty Inside ✨
Beyond the legend, admire the stunning Baroque architecture and art that fills the church.
A Hidden Gem 💎
Often overlooked, this church is a fantastic 'hidden gem' worth seeking out in Prague.
Tips
from all over the internet
Look Up for the Hand! 😮
Don't forget to look up! The famous mummified arm is a unique sight you won't want to miss.
Organ's Majestic Sound 🎶
Try to catch a moment when the church's historic organ is played; it's truly powerful.
Baroque Beauty Inside ✨
Beyond the legend, admire the stunning Baroque architecture and art that fills the church.
A Hidden Gem 💎
Often overlooked, this church is a fantastic 'hidden gem' worth seeking out in Prague.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Church of St. James the Greater's unique blend of stunning Baroque architecture and its famously eerie mummified hand relic. While the hand draws significant curiosity, many also praise the church's impressive organ and the overall grandeur of its interior.
"Do not pay for this!!!
The basilica museum is CLOSED!
They need money to renovate the actual Basilica but this isn’t the way to do it (completely overcharging and swindling tourists!!!)
The Basilica itself is a church, which you should never have to pay to go into. It’s filthy, dark with lots of paintings that you can’t make out! Half of the church is fenced off with the word “alarm” which is disappointing and you can’t get to the second level!
The organ is incredible and the ceiling is beautifully detailed and ornate but isn’t worth the price to see when so many others exist for cheaper or free!
The garden is disappointing, not well kept with artificial plants, no landscaping and weeds and again, half of it fenced off!
The cellar is bizarre- two empty stone rooms with fairy lights ?!? And a local seller trying to sell fake plants ? In a Church ?
The rooms lead onto business like meeting rooms, halls and corridors that eventually lead to a cafe and exhibition type space. This was not mentioned when we bought the tickets and made us feel like we had been swindled!! The spaces were modern, filled with questionable art, decor and smells; I felt like I was in a living room, and it wasn’t a saint’s!
Poor information, poor communication and poor pricing! Maybe even poor morals ! Either completely privatise it or keep it open for fall to see!
Over complicated ticket choices (4-5 to choose from) and the girl didn’t say which one did what or what we were paying for. Watch out- one of the tickets advertises a coffee or tea tasting which is from another local seller.
You can’t access any higher floors, views or towers and the basilica museum is CLOSED!
Get a pic of the amazing door outside and MOVE ON."
Emma Kay
"Basilica of St. James is a stunning catholic church located near Old Town Square. Have to look a little bit. The outside of the church is uniquely decorated. The church was built in the gothic architecture sytle and then rebuilt in the Baroque architecture style in the 1600’s due to a fire."
W. B.
"The exterior facade belies the gorgeous interior within. I love the intricate carvings in the church's interior. The high ceiling is simply magnificent. The natural light coming in from windows made the entire place look really beautiful. I am sure the acoustics would also be amazing here as well."
gevs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is centrally located in Prague's Old Town, making it easily accessible by public transport. You can take trams to nearby stops like 'Staroměstská' or 'Náměstí Republiky', or it's a pleasant walk from many central Prague attractions.
Yes, it's very close to the Old Town Square and the Jewish Quarter, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
While it's a bit of a walk, it's a scenic route through the charming streets of Prague. Allow about 30-40 minutes.
Wandering through the Old Town's cobblestone streets is part of the charm. Enjoy the journey as you approach this historic site.
Parking in Prague's Old Town can be challenging and expensive. Public transport or walking is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main church area is often free, but there might be a small fee for specific areas or to access certain exhibits. It's best to check on-site for the most current information.
Opening hours can vary, especially on Sundays and holidays. It's advisable to check the official church website or local listings before your visit.
While the church itself might be free to enter, there could be a nominal fee to view specific relics like the mummified hand.
Visitors are generally welcome to attend mass, but it's respectful to be quiet and mindful of worshippers. Some areas might be restricted during services.
Guided tours may be available, offering deeper insights into the church's history and art. Inquire at the church or look for local tour operators.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The most talked-about feature is the mummified arm of a thief, legend says, hanging from the ceiling as a warning.
It's one of the largest and oldest organs in Prague, built in 1705, and is renowned for its powerful sound.
Yes, the Baroque interior is very photogenic. However, always be respectful and check if photography is permitted in all areas.
Expect a grand and awe-inspiring atmosphere, typical of Baroque churches, with a unique element of historical curiosity due to the mummified relic.
Beyond the mummified hand, admire the intricate stucco work, ceiling frescoes, and the overall grandeur of the Baroque design.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The church is in the heart of Prague's Old Town, surrounded by numerous cafes, traditional Czech restaurants, and international eateries.
You'll find everything from traditional Czech goulash and dumplings to international cuisine and quick snacks.
Yes, while some restaurants can be touristy, you can find more affordable options by venturing a few streets away from the main square. Look for 'denní menu' (daily menu) specials.
Numerous cafes and bakeries are scattered throughout the Old Town, perfect for a coffee break or a light snack.
It's convenient, but for a more authentic and potentially better value experience, explore the side streets.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful. Some areas or specific exhibits might have restrictions.
The grand Baroque interior, the organ, and of course, the mummified hand (if you dare!) offer unique photographic opportunities.
Using flash is often discouraged or prohibited in churches to protect artwork and maintain a solemn atmosphere. Check for signs.
The interior lighting can be dim, especially in older churches. Consider a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod if permitted.
Photography of the mummified hand is usually permitted, but again, be respectful. It's a unique subject!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Curious Explorers & History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to learn about the organ's impressive legacy and perhaps even hear its powerful tones. This church provides a rich tapestry of historical intrigue and artistic beauty, perfect for those who love to uncover the less obvious gems of a city.
Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the grandeur of the historic organ and, of course, the famously unique mummified hand. Remember to be respectful of the space and other visitors, and check for any flash photography restrictions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Mummified Hand
Visitors often express a mix of fascination and slight unease when encountering this unusual artifact. It's a stark reminder of historical punishments and the stories that can become embedded in a place's lore. The arm's blackened, withered appearance only adds to its mystique, making it a memorable talking point for many who visit.
While the legend is captivating, it's important to remember that historical accounts can vary. Regardless of its exact origin, the mummified arm has become an iconic, if unusual, symbol of the church, drawing curious travelers eager to see this piece of Prague's darker folklore.
Baroque Masterpiece and Musical Heritage
A significant highlight is the church's magnificent organ, one of the largest in Prague. Built in 1705, this historic instrument is not just a visual spectacle but also a source of incredible music. Visitors often rave about the powerful and moving sounds produced by the organ, especially if they are fortunate enough to hear it played during a service or recital.
Exploring the church offers a chance to appreciate both its artistic achievements and its ongoing musical tradition. The combination of visual splendor and auditory delight makes it a well-rounded cultural experience for any visitor interested in history, art, or music.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit