Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary & Charles the Great

As with many historic places in Prague, the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary & Charles the Great was founded by emperor Charles IV as part of the former covenant of the Augustinian Order. It was built to help Prague fit its new role as capital of the Holy Roman Empire. The unusual octagonal floor plan is proof of this as it directly refers to the Aachen Cathedral in Germany, the main building of the Imperial Palace of Charles the Great in Aachen.

The construction of the church began 1351 in the Gothic style under architect Matthew of Arras, who also designed St. Vitus Cathedral located in Prague Castle. The church also features three cupolas which were completed in the Baroque Style in the mid-18th century.

This church, along with the Church of St. Katherine of Alexandria, makes up part of the cross of churches in New Town, specifically the eastern point.

According to legend, the builder of the vault made a deal with the devil to ensure its completion. After seeing its completed size, the builder, full of fear that the vault would collapse, hung himself on the scaffolds. The vault survived.

If you’re interested, there are regular Roman Catholic masses on Sunday at 9:30 and at 17:00 and tour groups daily except on Sundays on phone order.

Next to the Church is the Police Museum, make sure to click on the stop to learn more and continue your tour.