Situata nel cuore della Boemia centrale, la cittadina di Kutná Hora è un autentico gioiello storico della Repubblica Ceca, tanto da meritare il soprannome di “scrigno dei tesori del Regno di Boemia”. Le sue antiche miniere d’argento, una volta tra le più ricche d’Europa, le valsero un ruolo centrale nello sviluppo economico e culturale del Paese. Questo glorioso passato è oggi testimoniato da un patrimonio architettonico eccezionale, riconosciuto nel 1995 dall’UNESCO.
Located in the heart of Central Bohemia, the town of Kutná Hora is a true historical gem of the Czech Republic, earning it the nickname "treasure chest of the Kingdom of Bohemia". Its ancient silver mines, once among the richest in Europe, earned it a central role in the economic and cultural development of the country. This glorious past is now reflected in its exceptional architectural heritage, recognised by UNESCO in 1995.
The charm of the historic centre
The historic centre of Kutná Hora is a mosaic of cobbled streets, Gothic and Renaissance town houses, lively squares and imposing palaces. Strolling through its streets, you can admire masterpieces such as the Stone House, a fine example of late Gothic architecture, or the 15th-century Stone Fountain, which tells of the ancient thirst for water in the expanding city.
The Cathedral of Saint Barbara
The undisputed symbol of Kutná Hora is St. Barbara's Cathedral, an imposing late Gothic building that dominates the city skyline. Its construction, which began in the 14th century and was only completed in 1905, reflects the wealth and ambition of the local miners who financed the work. The interior is striking for its openwork vaults, refined medieval frescoes and artistic influences ranging from Gothic to Baroque.
The Italian Court and the Royal Mint
Another emblematic place is the Italian Court (Vlašský dvůr), seat of the royal mint and residence of Bohemian rulers. Here, during the reign of Wenceslas II, the famous silver coins known as "Prague groschen" were minted, thanks in part to the contribution of experts from Tuscany who were specially summoned from Florence. Today, the site houses the town hall and a museum tracing the economic history of the city.
Hrádek and the medieval mine
The mining history of Kutná Hora comes to life at the Silver Museum housed in Hrádek, an ancient patrician residence. The 'Silver Trail' takes visitors into the bowels of the earth, through tunnels and passages used by medieval miners. It is an immersive experience that recounts the hard and fascinating life of those who dug to extract the city's wealth.
Sedlec: spirituality and mystery
A short distance from the centre, in the Sedlec district, are two of the most evocative attractions: the Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady and St. John the Baptist, a splendid example of French Gothic architecture restored in Baroque style after the Hussite Wars; and the Sedlec Ossuary, known as the 'Church of Bones', a place as disturbing as it is fascinating. Inside, decorations made from human bones form chandeliers, coats of arms and altars, a unique testimony to medieval spirituality and symbolism.
Between art, faith and everyday life
The city also houses the Jesuit College, now home to GASK, a modern and contemporary art gallery, and numerous noteworthy churches such as San Giacomo, the oldest in the city, and San Giovanni Nepomuceno, with its striking pink façade.
Cultural and educational experiences
Finally, the Dačický House, an interactive centre for the promotion of UNESCO sites, is well worth a visit and is also ideal for families with children. The tour ends with the charming Corpus Christi Chapel, with its panoramic terrace, and itineraries outside the city that include the medieval fortress of Malešov, the imperial-style Kačina Castle and the national stud farm in Kladruby, renowned for breeding Starokladrubský horses.
Kutná Hora is a place where history, art and spirituality intertwine at every turn. Visiting it is like travelling back in time, among underground mines, Gothic cathedrals and mysterious ossuaries. It is a destination that enchants and surprises, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories.
