Tyn Church

Týn Church was founded in 1385 as the main church of the Old Town, replacing earlier Romanesque and early Gothic structures.

In the 15th century, it came under the control of the Hussites. This was a tumultuous period in the Czech lands, during which Hussites were persecuted by the ruling Roman Catholics. Eventually, the Catholic Jesuits took control of the church, recast its bell and replaced the Hussite symbol of the chalice with a large statue of the Virgin Mary mounted between the towers. The chalice was melted down to form the halo around her head.

In 1679, a fire in the church led to the interior being reworked in the Baroque style, and a vaulted main aisle was added.

The church is endowed with an extensive gallery of Gothic, Renaissance and early Baroque works, most notable of which are the altar paintings by Karel Škréta.

The tomb of the famous astronomer Tycho Brahe can also be seen.

In Old Town Square, stand and face Tyn Church, and it soon becomes evident that the mighty twin towers are not symmetrical. One tower, Adam, is larger than the other, Eve. This representation of the masculine and feminine sides of the world is characteristic of Gothic architecture of the period.

Legend has it that the towers of Tyn Church inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Whether this is true or not, the church is certainly an awe‑inspiring sight, especially at night when lights illuminate it against the dark sky.

The organ at Tyn Church dates from 1673 and is the oldest in Prague.

Tyn Church has regular Roman Catholic services and occasionally hosts classical concerts, during which the historic organ is played by expert musicians.

In winter, the church is heated, but it is still advisable to wear warm clothing for concerts.

View concerts - listings & tickets.

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