Top Things to See at Church of St Mary Magdalene

The Church of St Mary Magdalene is a masterpiece by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. It was built between 1733 and 1736. The white facade and green copper domes dominate the skyline. Inside, the church feels light and airy. It is a perfect example of High Baroque style. You should take time to admire the detailed wood carvings. The atmosphere is quiet and respectful. It remains an active place of worship today.

Many visitors only see the outside of the building. However, the interior holds many artistic treasures. You can see beautiful paintings and a grand pipe organ. The church often hosts classical music concerts. These events take advantage of the excellent acoustics. It is a great way to experience the building's spirit. Make sure to check the local schedule for evening performances.

1. Name: The Baroque Nave Type: Sight Why go: See the grand altar and stunning frescoes. Best for: Art lovers and photographers. Where: Main hall of the church. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: Respect quiet hours during scheduled mass times.
2. Name: The Underground Crypt Type: Experience Why go: Explore the unique ossuary and old foundations. Best for: History buffs and curious travelers. Where: Beneath the main church floor. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Access via the side entrance. Tip: Book a guided tour to see the underground crypt secrets.

Iconic Sights Near the Church of St Mary Magdalene

The church is located right in the center of the spa zone. You can easily walk to most major attractions. The official tourism board recommends starting here. The surrounding streets are filled with colorful buildings. You will find many cafes and small shops nearby. It is a very walkable area for all ages. Most paths are paved and flat near the river.

Karlovy Vary is famous for its thermal springs. These springs are housed in beautiful colonnades. You can drink the mineral water for free. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content. Many people bring a traditional porcelain cup for tasting. The colonnades are also great for people-watching. They represent the golden age of European spa culture.

• Quick picks:
• Best Overall: Hot Spring Colonnade
• Best for Families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best Rainy-Day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best Free Sight: Mill Colonnade

3. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: See the Vridlo geyser shoot 12 meters high. Best for: Everyone. Where: Directly across from the church. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 2-minute walk from the church. Tip: Visit the Hot Spring Colonnade to taste the warmest water.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: Admire the 124 Corinthian columns and stone statues. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Along the Tepla River. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 5-minute walk downstream. Tip: Read our Mill Colonnade guide before your visit.
5. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: View the intricate white lace-like woodwork. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Near the Hot Spring. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 3-minute walk from the church. Tip: Look for the relief showing the city's founding legend.
6. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Get the best panoramic views of the city. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Funicular fee applies. Getting there: Take the Diana funicular from the spa zone. Tip: There is a small butterfly house at the top.
7. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: Learn about the famous Becherovka herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: 15-minute walk or short bus ride. Tip: Check tour details and book in advance.
8. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: Watch master glassblowers create world-famous crystal. Best for: Craft enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jarose street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22. Tip: The museum shop offers high-quality souvenirs.
9. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: See the colorful Russian-style domes and gold. Best for: History buffs. Where: Westend neighborhood. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation. Getting there: 15-minute uphill walk from the center. Tip: Dress modestly as it is a sacred space.
10. Name: Deer Leap Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: See the famous chamois statue overlooking the valley. Best for: Hikers. Where: Forest trails above the town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the Market Colonnade. Tip: The path is steep but well-maintained.
11. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Sight Why go: Visit the filming location of Casino Royale. Best for: Movie fans. Where: End of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view (cafe prices vary). Getting there: 10-minute walk from the church. Tip: Explore the filming locations inside the lobby.
12. Name: Elizabeth Baths Type: Experience Why go: Relax in a historic neo-Baroque spa building. Best for: Wellness seekers. Where: Smetana Park. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by treatment. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main street. Tip: Try the pool if you want a quick visit.

Practical Tips for Your Karlovy Vary Trip

Visiting the Church of St Mary Magdalene is easy. It is open most days for visitors. However, you should avoid walking around during services. This shows respect for the local congregation. Photography is usually allowed but do not use flash. Keep your voice low while inside the building.

Karlovy Vary is very busy in July. This is because of the International Film Festival. If you want a quiet trip, visit in spring. The flowers in the parks are beautiful in May. Autumn is also a great time for hiking. The forest colors are vibrant and the air is crisp. Most attractions stay open year-round.

Public transport in the city is very reliable. You can use local buses to reach the outskirts. Most of the spa center is a pedestrian zone. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestones. You will likely walk several miles each day. Carrying a small water bottle is a good idea.

History of the Church of St Mary Magdalene

The site has a long religious history. A Gothic church stood here in the 14th century. It was surrounded by a small cemetery. Over time, the old building became too small. The current baroque structure replaced it in the 1700s. It was designed to match the city's growing fame. It served the wealthy guests of the spa town.

The church survived many fires and floods. It remains a symbol of the city's resilience. The architecture is meant to inspire awe and peace. In 2026, it continues to be a focal point. It links the modern city to its historical roots. Many families have visited this church for generations. It is a vital part of the local community.

The underground crypt is especially interesting to historians. It contains the remains of former local citizens. The foundations show how the church was built on slopes. It is a feat of 18th-century engineering. Seeing the crypt helps you understand the city's layers. It is a hauntingly beautiful part of the visit.