kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra Chapel
The site of today's chapel used to be a city prison and torture chamber. After the torture of Jan Sarkandro and the order of Bishop Ditrichstein to ban the use of the torture chamber in 1672- 1673, the chapel was built on site. The former prison building served military purposes until 1759. At the beginning of the 18th century, when Jan Sarkandro's beatification process began, the chapel was gradually enlarged. After repairs in 1703-1704, it was dedicated to all holy martyrs, later extended in 1721-1724 by builder Jan Jakub Kniebandle and equipped with five altars. In 1860 the main portal was replaced and the interior was modified; From this year on, the chapel bears the name of the chapel blessed by Jan Sarkandro.
The increasing importance of Jan Sarkandro's cult and the confined space of the original chapel led to a decision on the construction of a new, more representative building in the early 20th century. The city bought adjacent buildings, and the designer of the Prague architect Eduard Sochor followed up on the original building while maintaining the underground apside. In 1908-1912 a new chapel grew in a neo-Baroque style, consecrated by Olomouc arcibiskup Bauer. At the same time as the chapel, the Sarkandrine building with rich stucco decoration was built as a home for old priests and also as a museum of church history.
The chapel is a free-standing two-storey building with an oval plan and a circular finish, covered with a dome with a lantern at a height of 27 meters. In the end there is a statue of St. John Sarkandro. There is a sacristy and an annex with a staircase to the underground. Through a circular hole in the floor, a stream of light hits the basement where preserved monuments of Sarkandro's martyrdom are preserved. The exterior is decorated with rich architectural chippings with four stone sculptures on the ledge of the dome - St. Pavlina, St. Hedvik, St. Ignac of Loyla and St. Klement - and sandstone sculptures resembling the architect Eduard Sochor, the vicar Ignatius of Pannák and Archbishop Bauer. The interior consists of two discreetly identical chapel above it with marble altar decorated with plastic on kneeling angels, bark with small organs and three frescoes depicting scenes from Sarkandro's life.
The chapel was reconstructed in 1994-1995 and on 21 May 1995 there were canonization celebrations of the sacrament of Jan Sarkandro. In 2007, the city of Olomouc had the fountain of the Water Fountain built in front of the chapel. The dam between the chapel and the Sarkandrine building is defined by a metal gate on the east side and a two-arm stone staircase on the south side, where statues including the statue of St. John Nepomuk are also located. Today the chapel serves as an important pilgrimage place where believers remember the priest Jan Sarkandro and his martyrdom, which became part of the Czech Catholic tradition.
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
- 1620
- The torture of Jan Sarkandro in the place of the future chapel, which became the place of his martyr's death.
- 1672
- Disabling the torture chamber by Bishop Ditrichstein and building the first chapel in its place.
- 1721
- The extension of the chapel according to the project of Jan Jakub Kniebandl and the equipment of the five altar.
- 1908
- The construction of the contemporary Neo-Baroque chapel according to the Eduardo Sochor project.
- 1912
Architectural development
The first chapel was built in 1672- 1673 on the site of the former torture chamber, then underwent several modifications in the 17th and 18th centuries, including enlargement and equipment of altars. In 1908-1912 the original building was demolished and replaced by a Neo-Baroque chapel with a dome which followed the preserved underground apsid. The current chapel is made of sandstone and decorated with stucco reliefs and plastics.
Historical events
- 1620
- The torture of priest John Sarkandro in the place of today's chapel, which became the place of his martyr's death.
- 1860
- The chapel was officially named in honor of Bl.
Points of interest
- The chapel was built in 1672-1673 at the site of the former city prison and torture chamber where Jan Sarkander was tortured.
- In 1860 the chapel was named the chapel blessed by Jan Sarkandro after the replaced main portal and interior modifications.
- In 1908-1912 a new chapel was built in a neo-Baroque style, while the original underground apsid was preserved.
- The interior of the chapel contains three frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Jan Sarkandro and a marble altar with plastic kneeling angels.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
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This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome to the Mikhalsky Suites in Olomouci, where you stand before one of the most famous monuments of the city - the chapel of St. John Sarkandro. This Neo-Baroque building greets you with its elegant shaping and historic atmosphere, which is attached to every stone.
The chapel of St. John Sarkandro is not only an architectural work but also a monument to the martyrdom of the priest John Sarkandro in 1620. In this place there was once a former city prison and torture chamber where the tragic fate of this Czech clergyman took place. After his torture, a reputation for his holiness quickly spread here, leading to the creation of the first chapel between 1672 and 1673.
Let's look at the architecture of this chapel. The dominant element is its 27 meters tall dome with lantern, which illuminates the preserved monuments of the martyrdom of Jan Sarkandro. The dome stands as a symbol of immortality and hope, while the underground apside resembles the historical originality of the chapel.
The chapel was built on the site of a former torture chamber where the priest Jan Sarkander suffered mortal torture for his loyalty to the Catholic faith. His courage and devotion forced the Bishop of Olomouc Ditrichstein to ban the torture chamber and build the first chapel in its place in 1672.
In 1908-1912 this chapel was completely rebuilt according to the design of architect Eduard Sochor, who transformed it into a famous neo-Baroque building. This period also saw the consecration of the chapel by Archbishop Bauer in 1912.
Kapla is associated with several key historical personalities, such as Jan Sarkander itself or Ignác Panák, who played an important role in his sanctity. In this way, the chapel reminds not only of historical events, but also of the lives of the people involved.
The interesting thing is that in 1860 the chapel received its name after replacing the main portal and modifications of the interior. This moment symbolizes not only architectural development but also strengthening the memory of John's heritage.
Now that you've sailed through the history and architecture of this chapel, we invite you to take a closer look at its interior. Notice the details of John Sarkandro's martyrdom and spiritual significance.
We hope that this kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra has made a profound impression on you. If you decide to explore Olomouc even more, remember to look at other historical sites and monuments of this beautiful city. When we meet again, have a nice day!
Frequently asked questions
Is kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra open to the public?
Yes, kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra is open to the public all year round. The opening hours are 9: 00 to 5: 00.
How do I get to the place by car / public transport?
The chapel of St. John Sarkandro is located in the heart of Olomouce, so it is available by bus public transport or on foot. The nearest public transport stop is the station 'Square of the Republic', from where the chapel is to walk about 5 minutes.
How much is the entrance fee and is it paid on the spot?
Payment is only possible in Czech crowns.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra is suitable for visiting all ages. Special guided tours are available for children.
How long does the tour take?
The kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra tour takes about 30 minutes. In case of interest in more information or special tours it is possible to agree with the guide.
What are the opening times and booking is required?
The chapel of St. John Sarkandro is open from 9: 00 a.m. to 5: 00 p.m. Reservation is not necessary, but in the case of group visits it is appropriate to arrange it in advance.
What's interesting in the immediate vicinity?
In the immediate surroundings of kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra is located the historical centre Olomouce with a number of monuments such as the churches of St. Nicholas and St. Wenceslas, or the square of the Republic.
For kids
Imagine going back to the past, when Olomouc was still a small town. A city where people lived who believed in God and sought refuge from danger.
Here, where kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra stands today, there used to be a small mansion. People lived here, worked and prayed. They were people who loved their city and tried to protect it from enemy attacks.
It was like a game where heroes and thieves played. The city of Olomouc was like a capital city where a great adventure took place. And here, in this place, was one of the most important attacks.
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Nearby
{'memoirs': [{\ 'Nazen': 'Olomoucky walls', 'description': 'remnants of medieval and Baroque walls', 'description': 'Baroque church from the 18th century, located near the Mikhalské Suites, located around 400 meters away.', 'distance': 'around 400 m', 'nazení': 'Olomoucky Archbishop Museum', 'description': 'Museum of the Church's history and art located in the Sarkandrina area', ';' distance '
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Thematic cruise route from Olomouce
1. St. John Sarkandro Chapel (Chapel) This chapel is one of the most important sacral monuments in Olomouci, known for its architectural beauty and historical significance. It is a place where you can appreciate the Baroque style and learn more about the life and work of St. John Sarkandro.
2. Olomouc Walls Approximately 300 metres from the chapel there are remnants of medieval and baroque walls surrounding the historical core of the city. These walls witness the rich history of Olomouce and offer a view of the development of urban architecture over the centuries.
3. Church of St. Morice About 400 metres away, this Baroque church from the 18th century is located near the Mikhalsky Suites. It is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and offers an interesting interior with rich decorations that are worth exploring.
4. Olomouc Archbishop This place is the center of spiritual life in Olomouci and offers a view of the history and present of the Catholic Church in the region. His architecture and art collection are not only devoted to faith, but also fascinating to lovers of history and culture.
This route offers a view of the rich history and architecture of Olomouce, focusing on key places in its centre.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: In the spring season kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra celebrates the revival of nature, when flowers and trees begin to develop around it. Sun rays create fine shadows on its stone surface, which gives the atmosphere mild temperature and light. This season it is recommended to visit the chapel in the early afternoons, when the presence of crowds is minimal, and suitable clothing should be easy with the possibility of protecting against suddenly appearing vortex. This period offers ideal conditions for relaxing in green meadows around the chapel.
Summer: Summer is the time when kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra celebrates its full beauty and attracts the largest number of visitors. Sunshine days create a vibrant effect on her facade, while the cold vault provides shelter from the heat. Due to the huge increase in tourist currents, it is recommended to visit the memory early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid long fronts to improve their overall experience. A wet summer requires light clothes with sun protection and plenty of drinking water.
Autumn: Autumn season offers the chapel of St. John Sarkandro in a slightly melancholic atmosphere when tree leaves begin to colour and fall. The sunny days bring a warm bright light that celebrates the colors of autumn, while cooler evenings can be suitable for a peaceful walk around the sights. This period is ideal for a visit at noon when the temperature is pleasant and the crowd resembles tourists ever less. It is recommended to wear layered clothing that allows quick adaptation to temperature changes.
Winter: In winter, kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra is surrounded by quiet snow and cool rays of the sun, creating unique lighting of its walls. The atmosphere is calm and intimate, with fewer visitors than in other seasons, allowing a more personal experience. Visit her in the early afternoon, when the temperature is softer and the sunlight illuminates her architecture. Wet clothing with good insulation is essential for comfort during the visit, and in addition it is recommended to remember the shorter opening time of the chapel in this cold season.
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Sources and literature
Fotografie: Daniel Baránek / 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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