Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora
By Adriana Halousková
What is the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora?
The Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk is a small but very unusual church on top of a grassy hill just outside the Czech town of Žďár nad Sázavou. It was built in the early 1700s and is dedicated to a Czech saint, John of Nepomuk, who was tortured and killed in Prague.
The church is famous for its unusual shape. If you look at it from above, it forms a perfect five-pointed star. The number five repeats everywhere here – five entrances, five altars, five chapels – as well as multiples of five. Even the legend of the saint says five stars appeared in the water when his body was thrown into the Vltava River in Prague.
The church was designed by architect Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel. He mixed Baroque and Gothic styles in a way you won’t see anywhere else. The result is a small building that feels full of mystery and hidden meaning.
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Why is this church a UNESCO World Heritage site?
UNESCO added this site in 1994 because of its unusual and symbolic architecture. They describe it as “a masterpiece of the unique Baroque Gothic style,” which basically means it blends two very different styles in a way that really works.
The church’s design is full of symbolism – especially connected to the number five – and it’s linked to Czech religious history. Do not expect a grand cathedral or flashy church. It has a very special atmosphere that’s hard to describe until you’re actually there.
What can you expect on a visit to Zelená Hora?
When you arrive, you can park your car at a small lot just below the hill. From there, it’s a short and pleasant walk up to the church along an old tree-lined avenue. The path is quiet and shaded, and the church slowly comes into view as you climb.
Walking up to the church feels more like approaching a secret place than a typical religious site. The structure is surrounded by a cloister with five chapels forming a circle, and everything seems placed with purpose. The symmetry and geometry are very noticeable; it’s the kind of place where you instinctively slow down and start looking around more carefully.
The inside of the church is simple and calm. It’s not filled with gold or fancy paintings. Instead, the white walls and soft light give it a clean, almost otherworldly feel.
Is Zelená Hora worth visiting?
Yes – but not because it’s full of things to do or see. It’s worth visiting if you like places that are peaceful, beautiful, and unusual. The site isn’t big. I spent about an hour there, walking around the church and enjoying the views, but the atmosphere stayed with me much longer.
If you’re already in the region, it’s an easy stop. If you’re coming from Brno or Prague, it makes for a nice day trip, especially if you also visit the nearby Žďár nad Sázavou Castle and monastery complex.
What sorts of travelers would like Zelená Hora?
This is a good spot for people who enjoy quiet places, architecture, symbolism, and Czech history. It’s not a busy or crowded site, so it’s not for those looking for action or big attractions. But if you like unique churches or peaceful landscapes, you’ll appreciate it.
Tips for visiting Zelená Hora
There’s a café and visitor center at the base of the hill, where you can get more information or grab a snack.
The region is popular for hiking, cycling, and in winter, cross-country skiing. You can easily combine your visit to the church with outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside.
Czechia has good roads and is an excellent place for a road trip. Compare rental car prices from Prague airport here.
Just next to the church is the Žďár nad Sázavou Château, which includes an interactive museum about Santini’s architecture and the history of the site.
If you have more time, consider visiting other castles and historic towns in the area – the dramatic medieval castle at Lipnice nad Sázavou, the Renaissance castle in Ledeč nad Sázavou, and the château in Světlá nad Sázavou with its glass and art exhibitions.
Find accommodations in Zelena Hora.
Other UNESCO sites not too far away include Historic Centre of Telč and Jewish Quarter and St Procopius’ Basilica in Třebíč.
Where is Zelená Hora?
Zelená Hora (which means “Green Hill” in Czech) is located just outside of the town of Žďár nad Sázavou in the Vysočina region, Czech Republic.
By car: It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Brno and 2 hours from Prague. There is a parking lot near the base of the hill.
By public transport: Take a train to Žďár nad Sázavou (roughly 2 hours from Prague). From the train station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the hill, or you can take a short taxi ride.
For more information about the church, opening hours and admission, check the official website.
Have you been to the Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora? If so, do you have any additional information or advice about this UNESCO World Heritage site? Please add your comments below!