Centuries ago, Prague witnessed the rise of Baroque architecture. Today we stand before one of its finest examples the Church of Saint Nicholas. But it is also called Nicovská kaple. This isn’t just any church. It’s a testament to faith art and history all interwoven into one magnificent structure.
The original Gothic Parish church stood here since the 13th century. After 1620 it was handed over to the Jesuits. They decided to build a new church designed by Giovanni Domenico Orsi. The foundation stone for the new church was laid in 1673.
Nicovská kaple evolved in two stages during the 18th century. From 1703 to 1711 the west facade the choir and the Chapels of St Barbara and St Anne were erected. Count Wenceslaus Kolowrat-Liebsteinsky was the largest patron. He donated his entire estate to the construction of the church.
New plans featured interconnected cylinders with a central dome. The nave had side chapels and an undulating vault. Christoph Dientzenhofer apparently built it. The chancel and copper cupola were built from 1737–1752. This time it was by Christoph’s son Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer.
After Dientzenhofer’s death in 1751 the church tower was completed in 1752. The church continued to expand its interior beauty over the years. The Jesuit Order was abolished by Pope Clement XIV. Saint Nicholas became the main parish church of the Lesser Town in 1775.
Nicovská kaple has been described as the greatest Baroque church in Prague. The external facade is brownish in color. Inside are frescos by Jan Lukas Kracker and František Xaver Palko. Sculptures by František Ignác Platzer adorn the interior.
The Baroque organ has over 4000 pipes. Mozart played it in 1787. Mozart’s Mass in C was first performed here shortly after his visit. The belfry offers panoramic views. It was completed in Rococo forms from 1751–1756 by Anselmo Lurago.
During the Communist era the church tower served as an observatory for State Security. From the tower it was possible to watch the American and Yugoslav embassies. Also under surveillance was the access route to the West German embassy.
Today Nicovská kaple is a filial church of the Malá Strana parish. Organ and church music concerts are held daily from April to October.
As you stand before Nicovská kaple consider the layers of history within these walls. It is a place of worship a concert hall and a testament to Prague’s resilience. It stands as a reminder of the artistic and spiritual heritage.