Kostel Nanebevzetí Panny Marie ve Staré Boleslavi Church

Welcome to one of the most important sacral monuments of our country - the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Old Bloslav. You are standing in front of a massive baroque structure that rises above the historic centre of this city, combined with a deep Marian tradition. In front of you lies not only the church, but the whole pilgrimage place that has lured believers for centuries. Notice how his facade rises to a height, how terraces and ambitions surround it, which give the whole complex a noble and peaceful character. This church is not just an architecture - it is a place where faith, history and art intersect.

Let's go back to the past that began here in the mid-twelfth century. Legend has it that here, in 1160, the Palladium of the country of Czech - Gothic metal relief was found, which is being traded as a sacrament treasure. This valuable object, cast from Corinthian copper, became not only a symbol of the protection of the Czech country, but also the reason why Stará Boleslav became the first Marian pilgrimage point in our countries. The pilgrims have come here since the Middle Ages to pray before the image of the Virgin Mary and to honor this sacred object.

The Baroque church you see before you was built in the first third of the seventeenth century, when the older Gothic building stopped meeting the needs of pilgrims. Its construction was initiated by Emperor Matyáš Habsburský, and was completed in 1625 according to plans of Italian architect Giovanni Maria Filippiho. Later, other masters such as Jakub de Vaccani or Kilián Ignác Dientzenhofer contributed to its modifications. Note how harmonically the church is involved in the surrounding terrain - its terraces and stairways are not only a practical solution, but also an artistic element that highlights its importance.

Now pay attention to what happened in these walls. The church witnessed many historical events. In May 1757 there was a battle during the seven-year war, and it was in the Basilica that the Prussian general who fell in it was later buried. His grave is still a reminder of these dramatic events. Another important person associated with this place was Dominik Jaroslav Cardinal Duka, who was responsible for his restoration in the nineteenth century.

But what's most valuable? Of course Palladium of the Czech country, hidden in the safety of basilica. This gothic relief, which originated in the middle of the fourteenth century, is not only an artistic work but also a spiritual treasure. According to tradition, St. Wenceslas gave it to Old Bloslav as protection of the country. It is thanks to him that this basilica has become not only a pilgrimage place, but also a symbol of Czech identity.

Before you stands a place that carried on its shoulders centuries of faith, art and history. Every stone, every detail of the facade tells its story. If you have time, walk on ambition, feel the calm of this place and imagine how pilgrims, kings and artists used to walk here. Basilica was opened to the public in 2020 after the general reconstruction, so you can experience its beauty in full strength.

Whether you are a believer or just a lover of history, this church will surely enchant you. We wish your visit to be full of admiration and respect for what has stood here and will continue to stand. Thank you for taking the time to explore this extraordinary place. Let Stará Boleslav bring you not only knowledge, but also peace and inspiration.