Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral & Crypt, Prague - brown and green concrete building under blue sky during daytime
1 / 10

Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral & Crypt Prague

4.7
·3k reviews·, Czechia

A poignant Orthodox cathedral and crypt, serving as a powerful memorial to the brave Czech resistance fighters of Operation Anthropoid.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflection

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral & Crypt, Prague - brown and green concrete building under blue sky during daytime

Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral & Crypt Prague

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A poignant Orthodox cathedral and crypt, serving as a powerful memorial to the brave Czech resistance fighters of Operation Anthropoid.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"A must-visit for WWII history buffs, offering a deeply moving glimpse into courage and sacrifice."

Vertical photo
TIP

Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting the cathedral. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress:

Allow Ample Time

Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully absorb the history in the crypt and appreciate the cathedral. :clock:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Crypt Memorial

The Crypt Memorial

Underneath the Cathedral

A somber and powerful space commemorating the brave Czech resistance fighters of Operation Anthropoid. A must-see for history buffs.

Cathedral Interior

Cathedral Interior

Main Sanctuary

Admire the beautiful Orthodox architecture and serene atmosphere of this significant religious site in Prague.

Operation Anthropoid Exhibition

Operation Anthropoid Exhibition

Crypt

Learn the gripping details of the assassination plot against Reinhard Heydrich and the heroic last stand of the paratroopers.

Planning Your Visit

Understand the History

This cathedral is a poignant memorial to Operation Anthropoid, the assassination of SS officer Reinhard Heydrich. The crypt below was the site of a fierce final stand by the Czech resistance fighters. Visiting offers a deep dive into a pivotal WWII event.

Book Ahead for Special Exhibits

While the cathedral itself is free to enter, the crypt often hosts special exhibitions related to Operation Anthropoid. Check for opening times and potential ticket requirements for these immersive historical displays to avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Exhibits are open
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Saints Cyril and Methodius Cathedral On 18th June 1942, this cathedral and the crypt below was where the last stand was made by the Czechoslovak troops involved in the assassination of high-ranking N...
ryanwatterson147
237 likes • 0 views

Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting the cathedral. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress: Instagram

Allow Ample Time

Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully absorb the history in the crypt and appreciate the cathedral. :clock: Reddit

I love WW2 history, and I’ve long known about the dramatic gun battle where British-trained special forces assassinated a high-ranking and dangerous SS officer. They hunted him down and successfully ...
dis_happah01
56 likes • 0 views
Wonderful exhibition in Prague commemorating the Czech soldiers who were selected for Operation Anthropoid (the assassination of SS-Obergruppenführer Reinhard Heydrich) in 1942. A touching memorial t...
war_and_swing
44 likes • 0 views

WWII History Focus

This site is a key location for understanding Operation Anthropoid. :book: Instagram

Photography Etiquette

Be mindful of where you can take photos, especially in the crypt. Ask if unsure. :camerawithflash: Instagram

The Last Stand of the Czechoslovak parachutists. #history #historyhustle #historyhustleofficial #historyhustler #czech #czechrepublic #czechia #Czechoslovakia #czechrepublic🇨🇿 #ww2 #wwii #worldwar2 ...
historyhustle
29 likes • 636 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting the cathedral. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress: Instagram

Allow Ample Time

Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully absorb the history in the crypt and appreciate the cathedral. :clock: Reddit

WWII History Focus

This site is a key location for understanding Operation Anthropoid. :book: Instagram

Photography Etiquette

Be mindful of where you can take photos, especially in the crypt. Ask if unsure. :camerawithflash: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral & Crypt for its profound historical significance, particularly the moving exhibition on Operation Anthropoid. Many find the crypt a somber yet essential experience for understanding WWII resistance. Some note that the cathedral itself is beautiful but the main draw is the crypt's historical narrative.

"A must-visit for anyone fascinated by the Czech Resistance, World War II history, and Operation Anthropoid. The museum on the lower level is highly informative, offering free resources in both Czech and English. The church remains an active place of worship, adding to its historical significance. In the back, a small gift shop features orthodox items for sale, providing a unique touch to the experience."

Kelly B

"Tiny church in New Town with huge historic Czechoslovakia significance. Read about it or do a walking tour of new town / 20th century. Will only take 10 mins but is free and humbling."

Lewis Brigden

"If you have any interest in WW2 history, then this is a must. Free museum in the Crypt, dedicated to the Operation Anthropoid heroes.
Takes around half an hour and you can walk straight in if its not too busy.
Gives you a real sense of the whole operation and it's ultimate conclusion in the Cathedral."

Andy

What People Like

Moving WWII history
Operation Anthropoid exhibition
Solemn memorial

What People Dislike

Limited access to crypt
Can be emotionally heavy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cathedral is centrally located in Prague's New Town (Nové Město). You can easily reach it by public transport, with several tram stops nearby, such as 'Karlovo náměstí' or 'Moráň'. It's also a pleasant walk from Wenceslas Square or the National Museum. :bus: Instagram

Parking in central Prague can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk. If you must drive, look for paid parking garages in the vicinity. :car:

The main cathedral area is generally accessible. However, the crypt, which houses the main historical exhibits, involves stairs. It's advisable to check in advance for specific accessibility details if needed. :wheelchair:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the main cathedral is typically free. However, special exhibitions in the crypt, particularly those detailing Operation Anthropoid, may require a separate ticket. It's best to check their official website or inquire on-site for current pricing and availability. :ticket: Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially for the crypt exhibitions. Generally, the cathedral is open during daylight hours. The crypt's hours are often more restricted, so it's highly recommended to verify the most up-to-date schedule before your visit. :clock:

While the crypt is a separate exhibition space, it's located directly beneath the cathedral. Most visitors experience both as part of their visit. Access to the crypt is usually managed through a dedicated entrance or as part of a guided tour. :key:

Guided tours focusing on the history of Operation Anthropoid and the role of the cathedral are often available. These tours can provide deeper insights and context. Inquire at the site or check online for booking options. :guide_dog: Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The crypt is historically significant as the site where Czech resistance fighters, involved in the assassination of SS officer Reinhard Heydrich, made their final stand against Nazi forces in 1942. It now houses a museum dedicated to this event. :bomb: Instagram

The exhibition typically features artifacts, photographs, and detailed accounts of Operation Anthropoid, the assassination of Reinhard Heydrich, and the heroic sacrifice of the paratroopers who carried it out. It's a very moving experience. :military_medal: Instagram

Photography rules can vary. While some areas might allow photos, it's crucial to be respectful of the solemn nature of the memorial. Look for signage or ask staff before taking pictures, especially of exhibits. :camerawithflash:

To truly appreciate the historical context and the exhibits, allocate at least 1 to 2 hours. This allows time to explore the cathedral and thoroughly engage with the detailed displays in the crypt. :stopwatch: Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the cathedral offers classic architectural shots. Inside, the main sanctuary can be photogenic, but always be mindful of services. The crypt's exhibits are more about historical documentation than scenic photos. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Generally, photography is permitted in the main cathedral area, but flash photography is often discouraged to protect the artwork and avoid disturbing worshippers. Always check for posted signs. :no_flash:

Photography rules for the crypt exhibition can be strict. Some exhibits might be off-limits for photos to preserve their integrity or due to copyright. It's essential to respect these guidelines. :camerawithflash: Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the historical context of Operation Anthropoid is intense, the crypt exhibition can be a powerful learning experience for older children interested in WWII history. Focus on the bravery of the soldiers and the importance of fighting for freedom. Ensure you gauge your child's maturity level for the sensitive subject matter. Reddit

For younger children, the main cathedral offers a quieter space for reflection. Consider bringing a small notebook for them to sketch or write about what they see. The overall experience might be more impactful for families with children aged 10 and above who can grasp historical narratives.

📚 History Enthusiasts

This site is an absolute must-visit. The crypt's exhibition provides an unparalleled look into Operation Anthropoid, offering detailed accounts and artifacts related to the assassination of Reinhard Heydrich and the heroic last stand of the Czech paratroopers. Instagram+1

Beyond the crypt, understanding the cathedral's role as a sanctuary and its Orthodox heritage adds another layer to the historical narrative. It's a place where history truly comes alive, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in World War II. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Operation Anthropoid: A Pivotal WWII Event

The Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral and its crypt are inextricably linked to Operation Anthropoid, one of the most daring acts of resistance during World War II. This covert mission, executed by Czechoslovak paratroopers trained by the British Special Operations Executive (SOE), aimed to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich, a high-ranking Nazi official and architect of the Holocaust. The assassination took place on May 27, 1942, in Prague. Instagram

Following the successful assassination, a massive manhunt ensued. The paratroopers, including Jozef Gabčík and Jan Kubiš, sought refuge in the crypt of the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral. For several hours on June 18, 1942, they bravely fought against overwhelming Nazi forces. Despite their valiant efforts, they were ultimately cornered and perished, either by suicide or in the ensuing battle. TikTok

Today, the crypt serves as a solemn memorial and museum dedicated to their sacrifice and the broader story of Czech resistance during the Nazi occupation. Visiting this site offers a profound connection to a critical moment in history, allowing visitors to understand the courage and cost of freedom. Instagram

Exploring the Orthodox Cathedral

Beyond its wartime significance, the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral is the principal Orthodox church in Prague and a beautiful example of religious architecture. Its interior, while perhaps less ornate than some Western European cathedrals, possesses a distinct spiritual aura. The iconography and design reflect the traditions of the Orthodox faith. Instagram

Visitors can admire the iconostasis, a wall of icons separating the sanctuary from the nave, and appreciate the peaceful ambiance. It's a place for quiet contemplation and a reminder of the diverse religious landscape within Prague. While the crypt draws many for its historical narrative, the cathedral itself offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Orthodox Christian practice. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2