kostel Božího Těla a svatého Ducha Church

The Church of the Body and Blood of Christ, also known as the Church of the Holy Spirit, is Slavonice's oldest building in the Jihočeský kraj region. Constructed around 1280 as a Gothic chapel, it has undergone several transformations, including late Gothic modifications, Baroque renovations, and Neo-Gothic restorations. This church holds significant cultural value and was declared a cultural monument of the Czech Republic in 1958.

Its origins are steeped in legend, with construction purportedly inspired by repeated discoveries of Eucharist on the site, which had been stolen from the local parish church dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This led to building a chapel there. The first documented consecration occurred in 1296 when Olomoucký biskup Dětřich granted it indulgences, marking its importance as a pilgrimage and religious site.

Architecturally, the church began as a Gothic structure but underwent significant changes over the centuries. Between 1478 and 1491, it was modified in the late Gothic style. The late 18th century saw a transformation into Baroque architecture, including adding a northern nave with new altars dedicated to the Coronation of the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of the Snows, and the Holy Cross with Christ's Tomb. In the second half of the 19th century, it received Neo-Gothic restorations.

Throughout its history, the church has experienced dramatic events that shaped its destiny. During the Hussite siege in 1423, the chapel was destroyed by fire but rebuilt by 1436 on the remnants of its Gothic structure. In 1783, it faced closure due to Josephine reforms; however, thanks to local clergy like Drnholec's priest Josef Gross and later Slavonice's pastor, it remained a pilgrimage site under municipal financial responsibility.

The church has also been home to unique historical elements such as two votive paintings from the late 18th century. These were preserved due to their owners' timely intervention and eventually returned to the church after being safeguarded for over a century. Additionally, from the 15th century until 1778, a hermitage existed adjacent to the church, occupied by Leopold Mendig, a local Franciscan friar who lived there until his death.

Today, the Church of the Body and Blood of Christ remains accessible to visitors interested in its rich history and architectural evolution. Its status as a cultural monument underscores its importance not only to Slavonice but also to Czech heritage. Visitors are invited to explore this remarkable church, which continues to stand as a testament to centuries of religious devotion and historical resilience.