St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague (must see)

Perched within the precincts of Prague Castle, overlooking the Vltava River and the cityscape, Saint Vitus Cathedral is hailed as a pinnacle of Gothic architecture, symbolizing the essence of Bohemian national identity for many. Housing the tombs of numerous Holy Roman Emperors and Bohemian kings, its historical significance is palpable. Yet, beyond its rich past, the cathedral's striking exterior, grand nave, and exquisite stained-glass windows unite to evoke a profound sense of beauty and reverence.

The exterior is distinguished by the imposing Great Tower, crowned with a baroque dome and housing Sigismund – the largest bell in Bohemia, forged in the mid-16th century and weighing over 33,000 pounds. Adjacent to the tower lies the cathedral's southern entrance, known as the Golden Gate, decorated with a remarkable Venetian-glass mosaic depicting the Last Judgment.

Stepping inside, one is immediately awed by the soaring height of the nave, while the luminous stained-glass windows on the left impart a transcendent aura. Noteworthy among these is the third window, a masterpiece by the Art Nouveau maestro Alfons Mucha, narrating the entire history of Christianity in the Czech lands through vibrant imagery and profound symbolism. Other captivating features include the wooden panorama of Prague, the opulent Tomb of Saint John of Nepomuk crafted in solid silver, and an array of decorative elements ranging from the intricate to the whimsical.

Tips:
While entry to the exterior and partial interior is free, a ticket is required for a comprehensive tour, available as part of Prague Castle's visit options. Additionally, a separate fee allows access to the tower, offering amazing views albeit via a rather narrow ascent.