Kutna Hora is a small city of just over 21,000 residents that is located 65 kilometres east of Prague in the Region of Central Bohemia. During the 13th century Kutna Hora was a rich and important centre due to the mining of silver, gradually developing its economic prosperity and eventually becoming the second most important city after Prague. At the time this precious metal was made into ‘Silver Pennies’ which were the most important hard currency in the late medieval period and which became a readily usable currency throughout Europe. In the 14th century Kutna Hora became a Royal City and was a favourite amongst the Kings of Bohemia who constructed buildings and monuments to indicate its prosperity and political importance. This economic prosperity lasted until the 16th century when the silver deposits ran out, with the very last silver being mined as late as 1726. Since this economic peak the entire historical centre has remained intact and unchanged, and has been recognised by its’ listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as an outstanding example of medieval architectural development which reflects the cultural significance of the city.
Kutna Horas’ best known attraction is the fantastic 14th century Gothic styled Church of St Barbara with its 5 naves, tented roofs and multiple flying buttresses. Other attractions include the Italian Court which is the former Royal Palace and Mint, the 14th century Church of St James with its 82 metre high spire and the Stone House which is a medieval Gothic styled Burgher’s residence that today houses a museum. There is also an interesting silver mining museum which is housed in the old castle that was originally built as a palace in 1420, beneath which there are 20 levels of tunnels that are best seen on a guided tour. Located in Sedlec, an eastern suburb of Kutna Hora, is the rather unusual Graveyard Church of All Saints beneath which is the Ossuary Chapel where an estimated 50,000 to 70,000 human skeletons have been used to form bizarre decorations and furnishings for the Chapel. Also in Sedlec is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 13th century Cistercian Monastery and the Church of the Virgin Mary. This huge landmark was the first Cistercian Monastery in the Czech Republic. The Church has been restored in line with the Baroque architectural style of the 18th century in Central Europe.
|