Apostolic Exarchate in the Czech Republic

The Apostolic Exarchate in the Czech Republic is a Byzantine Catholic institution serving several thousand faithful through a network of parishes and chapels spread across the country. Its administrative offices are based at Haštalské náměstí in Prague, where local clergy manage worship services and community life.

Pope John Paul II established the institution in 1996 to serve the Byzantine Catholic community after decades of suppression during the communist era. This founding marked a revival of Eastern Catholic worship in a nation where such traditions had been forced underground.

The Cathedral of Saint Clement in Prague blends Byzantine liturgical forms with Czech religious traditions that visitors can observe during services. Walking through the space, you notice how Eastern and Western Christian practices coexist in the decoration and ritual life.

The administrative offices on Haštalské náměstí in Prague provide information about worship schedules and community events across the exarchate. Planning ahead is helpful since the various parishes and chapels have different opening times and service schedules throughout the country.

Today the exarchate serves as an important spiritual home for Ukrainian refugees and workers who seek connection to their faith and heritage. This contemporary role adds depth to its traditional mission of preserving Eastern Catholic practice in Central Europe.

Location: Czech Republic

Inception: 1996

Founders: Greek Catholic Church in the Czech Republic

Part of: Byzantine Catholic Church

Shares border with: Apostolic Exarchate in Germany and Scandinavia for the Ukrainians, Greek Catholic Eparchy of Wrocław-Koszalin, Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Przemyśl–Warsaw, Eparchy of Bratislava

Website: https://exarchat.cz

GPS coordinates: 50.08611,14.41500

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:08