Kaple svatého Jana Nepomuckého (Bukvice) Chapel
The chapel of St. John Nepomuk on the village of Bukvic, a small village in the district of Jičín, is a late Baroque sacral building which has dominated the local centre since 1767. It is a one-ship oriented chapel with a semi-circular apside and a tower on the west side, protected as a cultural monument.
Architecturally reminds of the small size of the big church and its rich details of the facade are interesting examples of late Baroque art in the region. It was created in 1767 according to the design of Italian architect Anselm Luraga, who also built a nearby church of St. Wenceslas in Veliš. The construction reflects dynamic shapes and rich ornaments typical of the late Baroque architecture of the time when church objects served as symbols of religious power.
The chapel has a simple but distinctive facade with smooth surfaces and rounded corners. On the west facade there are two stone pilasters with volute headers on the sides of the stone entrance portal, which is segmented. The tower on the west side is three-eyed and finished with a bell roof. In the interior, a triumphant arch separates the presbytery from the ship. The altar painting of St. John Nepomuk entering the sky is the work of Jesuit painter Ignatius Raab, who then worked in nearby Jičín.
Originally, the chapel belonged to the Roman Catholic Church until 2004, when the church handed it over free of charge to the municipality of Bukvice. The village carried out extensive reconstruction during which the chapel adapted for cultural purposes and preserved the organ from 1889. The ceremonial consecration after reconstruction took place in May 2004.
Today the chapel serves as a cultural and social area of the village. It is open to the public and offers the opportunity to know the architecture of the late Baroque in the region. Its value lies not only in the architectural solution, but also in the history and traditions of the local community.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 1767
- The establishment of the chapel of St. John Nepomuk according to the design of Italian architect Anselm Luraga.
- Around 1767-1770
- Completion of chapel construction with typical elements of late Baroque architecture.
- 1889
- Production of organ for chapel.
- 2004
- Chapel handed over to the municipality Bukvice after reconstruction and adaptation to cultural space.
Architectural development
The chapel was built in 1767 as a late Baroque building with elements of a smaller church. The facade is smooth with rounded corners and a ledge, the tower ends with a bell roof. The interior is simple, with presbytery separated from the ship's triumphant arch. The chapel was adapted for cultural purposes in 2004.
Historical events
- 1767
- Opening the chapel as a dominant village Bukvice
- 2004
- Transfer of the chapel from ecclesiastical property to the property of the village and its reconstruction
Owners
- 1767-2004
- since 2004
Points of interest
- The chapel was built in 1767 according to the design of Italian architect Anselm Luraga, who also designed the nearby church of St. Wenceslas in Veliš.
- The facade of the chapel is richly decorated and resembles the smaller part of a large church, its details being typical examples of late Baroque art.
- The tower on the west side is three-eyed and finished with a bell roof.
- The altar painting of St. John Nepomuk is the work of Jesuit painter Ignac Raab, who then worked in nearby Jičín.
- The chapel was originally the property of the Roman Catholic Church until 2004, when it was handed over free of charge to the municipality of Bukvice.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
On the village square in the center of Bukvice in the Jičín region stands the Chapel of Saint John of Nepomuk. It was built in 1767 in the late Baroque style and has been the landmark of the entire village ever since. In its appearance, it resembles a miniature of a large church. Today it is protected as a cultural monument.
The building plans are traditionally attributed to the Italian architect Anselmo Lurago. He was the builder of the nearby Church of Saint Wenceslas in Velíš.
The chapel is single-nave and oriented, meaning its altar section faces east. On the east side it is closed by a semicircular apse, and on the west side a tower rises. The side walls have risalits, which are slightly projecting parts of the wall. The facade is smooth and is articulated by rounded, receding corners. At the top it is finished with a richly profiled cornice. The western front is decorated with two stone pilasters with volute capitals, that is, with scrolled ornaments. They stand on either side of the entrance portal. Its stone frame is arched with a segmental arch and has a keystone at the apex. The tower with three windows has a bell-shaped roof.
Inside, a triumphal arch separates the presbytery from the nave. The altar painting depicts Saint John of Nepomuk ascending to heaven. It is traditionally attributed to the Jesuit painter Ignác Raab, who lived from 1715 to 1787 and worked at that time in nearby Jičín.
Until 2004, the chapel was owned by the Roman Catholic Church. It transferred it free of charge to the municipality of Bukvice. The municipality then renovated the chapel, including the organ from 1889. The restoration was completed with a solemn consecration on May 16, 2004. Since then, the chapel has served the municipality for cultural and social purposes.
Tips for visitors
Best time to visit St. John Nepomuk's chapel in Bukvice is in the morning or early afternoon. In these times there is a quieter atmosphere and a more pleasant light for photography. In summer it is advisable to avoid the noon hours when the chapel may be quite hot and the presence of a large number of visitors. The chapel is an ideal place for meditation or a short rest, so it is advisable to plan your visiting time so that you can explore its interior and surrounding environment in peace.
It is recommended to use public transport where possible. You can check the current connection and travel information in the traffic search engine.
When visiting the chapel, wear comfortable clothes and shoes because the path to the monument may be partially uneven. It is also appropriate to take a small towel or handkerchief because dust may be present in the chapel. If you are planning to photograph, remember to take a camera or mobile phone with sufficient storage space. In the summer, also bring enough water to make your visit uncomfortable.
For photography it is best to use the natural light from the window openings of the chapel. The best way to do this is in the morning or afternoon, when the light is not too hard. The most prominent places for photography are the entrance part of the chapel and its interior, especially altar decoration. The use of lightning is prohibited in the chapel, so prepare for photography in advance. It is also possible to take beautiful pictures of the surrounding countryside around the chapel.
In the vicinity of the chapel of St. John Nepomuk in Bukvice is worth visiting the church of St. Wenceslas in Veliš, located about three kilometres from the village. This Baroque church from the 18th century is designed by Italian architect Anselm Lurage and offers rich decoration and historical atmosphere. Another interesting thing is the Natural Park of Montenegro, located about five kilometers from Bukvice. This protected area is ideal for walking and observing local flora and fauna.
For families with children a visit to St. John Nepomuk's chapel in Bukvice is a great opportunity to learn about history and architecture. Children can see the small detailed elements on the facade of the chapel and the interior that can impress them. You can play around the chapel and explore nature. When visiting Montenegro Natural Park, children can observe different kinds of plants and animals, which is an interesting activity for the whole family. It is also recommended to visit the church of St. Wenceslas in Veleš, where children can see historical frescos and statues.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
Religious buildings are usually open mainly during services; at other times a visit is normally arranged with the parish or the operator. We have not verified specific times.
Where is the monument?
Location: Bukvice, Královéhradecký kraj. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 42262/6-1125).
For kids
Good morning! I think you're ready to go on an adventure in Western Bohemia, where there is a wonderful chapel of St. John Nepomuk in the village Bukvice.
It was like 259 years ago when the chapel was built. At the time, there were people in nearby villages who lived for a living in agriculture and trade. The village was small, but full of life and joy. The chapel was their sanctuary where important events were held such as weddings, funerals and prayers.
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Nearby
- Baroque church from the 18th century designed by Italian architect Anselmo Lurago.
- Protected area with rich flora and fauna, ideal for tourist trips.
Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Thematic cruise route: Baroque and nature in Bukvice and surroundings
1.Kaple svatého Jana Nepomuckého (Bukvice) * Type: Sacral construction * The unique Baroque chapel from the 18th century, built in memory of the martyrdom of St. John Nepomuk. Its charm is not only architecture, but also a quiet surrounding environment that attracts meditation and photography.
2. Church of St. Wenceslas in Veliš * Type: Baroque sacral monument * About 3 kilometers from Bukvice, this church is built by Italian architect Anselmo Lurago. Its interior and facade are a model of baroque art, which makes it an ideal stop for lovers of history and architecture.
3. Natural Park Montenegro * Type: Protected nature * About 5 kilometers from Bukvice, this park is located with rich flora and fauna. Suitable for hiking, cycling or simple walks, it offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring The chapel of St. John Nepomuk in Bukvice in the spring months offers a unique atmosphere where windows to nature are opened. The sun lights up the stone walls of the chapel, which after winter appear to be cleaned and refreshed. The surroundings awaken to life: meadows flourish, forests green and the air smells of wet ground and first flowers. The light is soft, scattered clouds add soft drama to the landscape. It is appropriate to visit the chapel in the morning sun when the rays reach the altar and create playful shadows. Practical advice: Dress in light but protective clothing - spring weather is unpredictable. The chapel is often visited by families with children at this time, so avoid the main weekend. The best time is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when there are fewer crowds and you can also enjoy the surrounding park.
Summer In the summer months the chapel in Bukvice attracts visitors not only with its historical value but also with a unique location in nature. The sun shines intensively here, the stone walls of the chapel warm up and reflect heat, while the surrounding area turns into a green oasis. High trees and ornamental shrubs create a shadow that attracts you to rest. The atmosphere is lively and full of sounds - the roaring of leaves, the singing of birds and distant sounds from surrounding fields. In the main summer season the chapel is often a sought-after destination, so prepare for larger crowds. I suggest you come before 9:00 to secure a seat at the altar. Dress in light, but headgear (e.g. hat) will help you protect yourself from the sun. Don't forget enough water and comfortable shoes to walk the surrounding roads.
Autumn Autumn in Bukvice brings a magical atmosphere to St. John of Nepomuk's chapel where nature turns into a palette of colors. Leaves on trees are colored in golden, orange and red shades, which are reflected in the chapel windows and formed as if images of autumn forest were reflected in it. The light is warmer, but already less intense than in summer, and creates fine shadows on the stones. The air is clean and refreshing, often driven by mild wind. The chapel is calmer at this time, but sometimes it is visited by locals who collect acorns or walk the surrounding roads. Practical advice: Dress in warmer layers because autumn days are already colder, especially in the morning and evening. The best time to visit is the afternoon when the light is perfect for photography and nature is in full glory. Avoid rainy days when roads can be slippery.
Winter The winter visit to St. John Nepomuk's chapel offers peace and quiet, which is rare in other times. The chapel seems like a decorative pearl of snowy landscape, its stone walls are shaded with white coating, which is softer than sunlight in summer. The surrounding area is covered with snow, which adds mysterious beauty to the landscape. The light is soft and scattered, often supplemented by sunlight, which penetrates between the clouds and illuminates the chapel as if from a height. The atmosphere is calm and thoughtful, ideal for a short escape from everyday excitement. Practical advice: Dress in warm clothes, including suitable shoes on snow ground. The best time to visit is early morning, when the light is the most beautiful and the chapel is still calm. Avoid strong wind days, which may be uncomfortable while walking longer.
Visualizations and artistic views
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Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
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Sources and literature
Photos: Václav Hovorka RNDr. / CC BY-SA 4.0, rozlišení zvýšeno umělou inteligencí — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
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