At the end of the 1200s, simultaneously with the foundation of Plzeň, work began on St Bartholomew's Church, the dominant feature of the town. When visibility is good, its slim tower (measuring 102.26 metres, it is the highest church tower in Bohemia) provides a view of the Šumava area, located 70 kilometres away. An argillite statue of the Madonna graces the main altar of the church. Created in the so-called beautiful style, this medieval jewel has great importance for Europe. In 1993, Pope John Paul II established a bishopric in Plzeň and St Bartholomew's church was promoted to a cathedral.