Gothic Architecture

Gothic architecture is an important part of the history of Czech architecture, and its development can be divided into three major periods: early Gothic, peak Gothic and late Gothic. The most famous architects include Petr Parléř and Benedikt Rejt.

The most distinctive Gothic building is the Cathedral, where Katedrála svatého Víta (St. Vitus Cathedral) is located in Prague, where young architect Petr Parléř demonstrates extraordinary creativity. After the death of Matyáš z Arrasu, the first architect of the cathedral, Petr Parléř arrived in Prague in 1356 to take over and continue the construction.

The architectural workshops of Petr Parléř have an extraordinary importance for late Gothic architecture and sculpture. Other works include Karlův most (Charles Bridge) and Staroměstská mostecká věž (Old Town Bridge Tower).

During the reign of the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV (1355 – 1378), Prague flourished economically, politically and culturally – the city has ushered in an unprecedented architectural boom, with new churches built in Prague’s New Town, Old Town and Lesser Town.