A national cultural monument of the Czech Republic, a true masterpiece of Czech architecture, one of the most delightful churches in Prague, and the main decoration of the Old Town Square... It is all about the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, or as the locals call it, just Tyn.

This city landmark is a must-see. Firstly, such an ancient temple is still functioning and the entrance is free. Secondly, it is one of the most popular attractions in the whole country. Thirdly, its appearance and interior decoration look so impressive that the church really sinks into your imagination.

The construction of Tyn Church began in the middle of the 14th century during the reign of King Charles IV. However, its foundation still hides the old stones of a Romanesque 11th-century church and a Gothic 13th-century church. Both temples stood on the site of Tyn Church in various years of the Early Middle Ages. In ancient times, it was not customary to move the sanctuaries, as the land itself was considered sacred.

At the beginning of the 15th century, the Church of Our Lady before Tyn became the main Hussite shrine of Prague, although the final construction of the church was completed only a century later. Then the church passed to the Jesuit order, the golden chalice and the inscription "Truth wins" were seized from the main temple's statue. The era of the Reformation began and took away many valuable relics.

Nowadays, the majestic Tyn Church is considered a bright example of the Gothic style. According to some people, the church was built by the famous Flemish architect Matthias of Arras, the genius who created the grand Cathedral of St. Vitus. Other historians and researchers believe that the temple was built by a talented young architect Peter Parler. This is evidenced by the delightful figured details that adorn the Parler-style arched windows.

Nothing can compare with the rich Baroque interior of Tyn Church. Its hallmark is a solemn altar painted back in the mid-17th century by one of the greatest Czech artists of the Middle Ages, Karel Skreta, the founder of the Czech Baroque painting.