Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and St. Charles the Great, Prague, Gothic and Baroque church in Karlov district, Prague, Czech Republic
The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and St. Charles the Great is an octagonal building with three cupolas topped with lanterns, domes, and spires that blend Gothic and Baroque architectural elements. The structure features a remarkable star vault supported by slender arches that create an open, light-filled interior.
Emperor Charles IV established this church in 1350 as part of an Augustinian monastery, drawing inspiration from the cathedral in Aachen where Charlemagne was buried. The building underwent centuries of modifications and expansions to reach its present form.
The church houses one of Prague's oldest preserved Nativity scenes with life-size painted figures created in the 18th century. Visitors can see this display of religious devotion and craftsmanship in the quiet interior space.
The site is best visited during the day when light streams through the windows and illuminates the interior structure. Group tours are available on weekdays, while Roman Catholic services take place on Sundays.
The star vault inside spans an impressive width and is supported by unusually thin arches resting on surprisingly low walls. This construction is a notable engineering feat that visitors often overlook when entering the church.
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