This evening, 1500 churches will be opened to the public

Prague - The doors of nearly 1500 churches, chapels, and places of worship will open this evening during the Night of Churches, which is taking place for the ninth time. Visitors can expect guided tours of monuments that are usually inaccessible at unusual times, concerts, theatrical performances, exhibitions, and workshops. People will have the opportunity to see sacristies, monastery gardens, bell towers, and crypts, climb towers, or try playing the organ.

The event enjoys great interest not only from the faithful; last year, half a million people visited the churches. Organizers want to introduce Christianity to visitors in an unconventional and relaxed manner and to arouse interest in the social and cultural value of churches.

For example, in Prague, this year's program will be enhanced by the pontoon František, which will anchor at Charles Bridge. A great experience is also promised by the traditional Pilgrimage of Light across Charles Bridge, which people can participate in while holding a candle from St. Thomas Church in Mala Strana to the Church of the Most Holy Savior at Křížovnické Square.

Visitors to the Night of Churches in Plzeň will also be transported by a historic trolleybus, while the center of Brno will be crossed by the tram of the Night of Churches. The Hradec Králové diocese has prepared organ and vocal concerts for church visitors, exhibitions of chronicles, vestments, and liturgical items, wine tastings, candle meditation, bell ringing, interactive games, or artistic activities for both children and adults. Specific programs for individual churches can be found by interested parties on the website www.nockostelu.cz.

The organizers were inspired by a similar event that has long been held in Austria. The Night of Churches is intended for the widest possible public - including those who stand outside the church or on its fringes, say the organizers.