Did you know …?

There is a Santa Claus church inour town, České Budějovice! ! !

The true story of S. Claus begins with Nicholas, who was born during the 3rd century in Patara, Turkey. 

Nicholas …

… became a bishop.

He was known for his generosity (giving gifts).

He suffered for his faith, was exiled and imprisoned.

He died December 6, AD 343 in Myra

The anniversary of his death became a day of celebration, St. Nicholas Day, December 6th

St. Nicholas in České BudějoviceOriginally a Gothic parish churchIn the 16th century a bell tower was built, called today The Black Tower. In 17th cent. after a massive fire the church was rebuilt in Baroque style.

In 1785 the church became a home of the bishop and it was upgraded to a cathedral of a new diocese of České Budějovice

Cathedral today

It is being repaired. There will be new lighting, a new floor and floor heating.

St. AuratianThere are three statues of patron saints on the front of the cathedral.St. Auratian is the patron of the city. A Roman soldier living in the 2nd/ 3rd cent, who died for his Christian faith.

St. Wenceslas

A 10th century Czech prince and the patron saint of the Czech lands. He is the GOOD KING WENCESLAS from the famous Christmas carol

St. NicholasThe third saint on the front facade is Saint Nicholas, the patron of the cathedral