So just what is the view like from the top of the Czech Republic’s highest church spire? See for yourself by climbing the 301 steps that lead to the top of the 103m-high tower belonging to the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew, which dominates the main square in Plzeň. If the weather plays ball, you can see the historical centre below you as well as mountain peaks of the Šumava region some 70km away.
The Gothic Cathedral of St. Bartholomew defines Plzeň just as a dewy tankard of the local lager does. The building contains some priceless works of art, the most valuable of which is a statue of the Virgin Mary dating from the 14th century, one of the most precious pieces of Gothic art in the country. You should also seek out the exquisite stained glass windows and the monumental crucifix on the main altar. For a real medieval atmosphere look for the Šternberk chapel containing a Czech Art Nouveau altarpiece.