Church of St. James

About

The Church of St. James the Greater in Prague is a magnificent Baroque basilica originally built in the 13th century in Gothic style but largely rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1689. Inside, visitors can admire a lavish interior featuring over twenty altars richly decorated with paintings by artists such as Jan Jiří Heinsch, Václav Vavřinec Reiner, and Petr Brandl. The ceiling frescoes by František Voget depict the life of Mary and the glorification of the Trinity, adding to the church’s artistic splendor. One of the most remarkable features is the Baroque tomb of Count Jan Václav Vratislav of Mitrovice, designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, which is a masterpiece of sculptural art. A unique and eerie attraction is the mummified blackened arm hanging by the entrance to the tomb, said to belong to a thief caught stealing jewels from the statue of the Virgin Mary on the main altar. According to legend, the statue grabbed the thief’s arm, which was then severed by monks and has been preserved in the church ever since. The church also houses a historic organ dating back to 1705, created by Abraham Starka, renowned for its exceptional sound and used for concerts. The basilica’s vast three-nave layout and its richly decorated Baroque choir and towers contribute to its grandeur, making it a must-see for visitors interested in Prague’s religious art and history

Prague Czech Republic

Location

The Church of St. James the Greater (Bazilika svatého Jakuba Většího) is centrally located in Prague’s Old Town at Malá Štupartská 6, just a short walk between Old Town Square and Náměstí Republiky. Easily reached by wandering through the Tyn Courtyard, the church stands out with its Baroque architecture, yellow façade, and ornate black doors. Its position makes it an ideal stop for tourists exploring the historic heart of Prague, as it is close to major attractions and part of popular walking tours through the Old Town and Jewish Quarter. Nearby, visitors can explore the iconic Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock, and the bustling Palladium Shopping Centre. The area is also filled with restaurants, including Zdenek’s Oyster Bar, and cultural venues like St. Martin in the Wall Church, which hosts concerts. The location is perfect for those wanting to experience Prague’s architectural and historical highlights, with the church itself renowned for its grand interior, legendary mummified arm, and regular organ concerts, making it a must-see for visitors interested in the city’s rich heritage