The church was specifically dedicated to Saint Barbara because the miners of Kutná Hora were constantly exposed to the danger of cave-ins.
The triple-tent roof was designed to mimic the appearance of miners' tents, reflecting the source of the church's funding.
Construction was halted for over 60 years during the Hussite Wars and did not resume until the late 15th century.
The interior is notable for its 'miner's frescoes' which are among the oldest examples of secular-themed art in a Bohemian ecclesiastical space.
The organ inside the church dates back to the 18th century and is still in working condition.
The church was never intended to be a cathedral, as Kutná Hora never held the status of a bishop's seat.
The building features 27 distinct chapels arranged around the perimeter of the choir.
St Barbara's Church is a late Gothic five-naved cathedral located in the UNESCO-listed town of Kutná Hora. Commissioned in 1388 by the local mining guilds, the structure was dedicated to Saint Barbara, the patron saint of miners. The building features an unconventional triple-tent roof design and intricate flying buttresses. Its interior houses significant medieval and Renaissance-era frescoes depicting mining activities and local life. The church construction spanned over 500 years, resulting in a blend of Gothic structural elements and Baroque-style furnishings. The nave's vaulting displays unique floral and geometric decorative patterns. The church serves as a historical testament to the silver mining wealth that historically fueled the Bohemian Kingdom.
From the Barborská street promenade looking upward to capture the flying buttresses against the sky.
Walk the covered bridge that leads from the Jesuit College to the church for a elevated vantage point.
Look closely at the pillars in the nave to find stone carvings of local flora and mining tools.
Visit the small terrace area on the north side for a clear view of the town’s rooftops.
Do not mistake the nearby Sedlec Ossuary for the same site; they are separate attractions located in different parts of town.
Occasional closures occur for private religious ceremonies or weddings.
Maintain a quiet tone, remove hats upon entering, and avoid photographing during ongoing religious services.
