Why visiting St Cyril and Methodius Cathedral crypt matters

The crypt is the site of the paratroopers' final stand in 1942. They were involved in Operation Anthropoid. This mission targeted the high-ranking Nazi official Reinhard Heydrich. Today, the space serves as the National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror. It is a somber place for reflection.

Inside, you will see the small window where they fought. Bullet holes still mark the exterior walls of the cathedral. The museum section explains the entire mission in detail. It provides a chilling look at wartime Prague. Visiting this site helps you understand the local resilience.

The cathedral itself is a beautiful Baroque building. It belongs to the Orthodox Church. While the church is ornate, the crypt remains stark and quiet. It is located on Resslova Street near the Vltava river. Most visitors find the experience deeply emotional and educational.

10 lesser known churches in Prague to explore

Prague is famous for its "hundred spires." Many visitors only see the largest ones. Exploring lesser known churches in Prague reveals hidden stories. These sites offer peace away from the crowds. Here are ten locations you should not miss.

• Quick Pick: Best for History: St Cyril and Methodius Crypt
• Quick Pick: Best for Peace: Emmaus Monastery
• Quick Pick: Best Architecture: Sacred Heart of Our Lord

1. Name: St Cyril and Methodius Cathedral Crypt Type: Memorial Why go: It is the site of the paratroopers' final stand. Best for: History buffs and students. Where: New Town, Resslova Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Usually a small entrance fee. Tip: Read about Operation Anthropoid before you arrive.
2. Name: Church of Our Lady of the Snows Type: Sight Why go: It features the highest altar in Prague. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Near Wenceslas Square. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free entry. Getting there: Walk from Můstek metro. Tip: Learn how to visit Church of Our Lady of the Snows for the best experience.
3. Name: Emmaus Monastery Type: Experience Why go: It has unique modern concrete spires. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Near Palackého náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee for the cloister. Getting there: Take tram 2, 3, or 17. Tip: Check out the rare Gothic wall paintings inside.
4. Name: Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord Type: Sight Why go: It looks like a giant clock tower. Best for: Unique photography. Where: Vinohrady. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view outside. Getting there: Green metro line to Jiřího z Poděbrad. Tip: Visit the nearby farmers' market on weekends.
5. Name: St. Martin in the Wall Type: Sight Why go: A rare medieval church once part of city walls. Best for: Medieval history. Where: Old Town. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free or small concert fee. Getting there: Walk from Národní třída. Tip: This church often hosts evening classical concerts.
6. Name: Rotunda of St. Martin Type: Sight Why go: The oldest surviving building in Prague. Best for: Ancient history. Where: Vyšehrad fortress. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: View from outside is free. Getting there: Red metro line to Vyšehrad. Tip: Walk around the fortress walls for great views.
7. Name: St. Salvator Church Type: Sight Why go: Part of the Klementinum complex near Charles Bridge. Best for: Baroque art. Where: Old Town Bridge Tower area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Usually free during day hours. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská. Tip: It is very busy, so go early in the morning.
8. Name: Church of St. Giles Type: Experience Why go: Incredible wooden carvings and ceiling frescoes. Best for: Quiet contemplation. Where: Old Town, Husova Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Old Town Square. Tip: The acoustics here are world-class for organ music.
9. Name: St. Margaret's Basilica Type: Day trip Why go: Part of the oldest Benedictine monastery in Bohemia. Best for: A quiet escape. Where: Břevnov district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Fee for guided tours. Getting there: Tram 22 or 25 to Břevnovský klášter. Tip: Visit the monastery brewery for a local beer.
10. Name: Church of Our Lady Victorious Type: Sight Why go: Home to the Infant Jesus of Prague statue. Best for: Pilgrims and religious history. Where: Lesser Town (Malá Strana). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free entry. Getting there: Tram 12, 15, or 22 to Hellichova. Tip: Visit the small museum of the Infant's dresses.

Planning your tour of Prague's hidden religious sites

When visiting these sites, respect the local customs. Many of these churches are active places of worship. Keep your voice low during your visit. Avoid using flash photography inside the sanctuaries. Most churches are open from morning until early evening.

Dress modestly when entering any religious building. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees. Some smaller churches might close for private services. It is helpful to check their schedules online first. You can find more hidden spots in Prague to add to your route.

Public transport in Prague is very reliable. You can use trams or the metro to reach most sites. Walking between Old Town locations is also easy. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. Many of these churches offer a cool refuge on hot summer days.