kostel Narození Panny Marie (Hlinsko) Church

The Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary in Hlinsk is an excellent example of baroque architecture located above the parish of Toufara Street. This unoriented church is a protected cultural monument in the Czech Republic between 1730 and 1745. Its importance stems from architectural beauty and historical continuity, which replaced the older wooden Gothic structure and contained elements.

The origin of the church dates back to 1350, when it was first mentioned as a parish church. During the Hussite period, Hlinsko had an Utraquist parish until 1624, after which the Catholic administration took over in connection with the Fact. In 1655-1662 Hlinsko gained an independent parish position. The current Baroque structure was commissioned by Count Štěpán Vilém Kinský and designed by architect Donát Morazzim. This period of construction reflects a wider European trend in the early 18th century, when Baroque architecture flourished under the influence of counter-reformation, particularly within the framework of the Habsburg monarchy.

Architecturally, the church is remarkable for integrating elements from the original Gothic church. The stone tower, originally part of a wooden building, was preserved and decorated with a Baroque coat. This synthesis of styles is evident in his design: a single-boat building with semi-circular presbyteria and square side attachments of holiness and chapel dedicated to Saints Cyril and Methodius. On the facade there are three entrances accessible by eight stone steps, each framed with profiled corn. The high windows intersect both the ship and the presbyteria, thus increasing internal lighting.

Artistic elements church are equally important. The preserved artifacts from the original Gothic structure include the baptism of 1628 and the 1315 kg bell that Daniel of Kutná Hora cast in 1520. The main altar stands out as a masterpiece in which the sculptures Ignác Rohrbach - prominent Czech Baroque sculptor influenced by Matyáš Braun are listed. They include the statues of the saints Wenceslas and Vitus, along with the angelic figures that decorate the dwelling. Other works from this period include pulpit, two altars dedicated to Saint Anne and Saint John Nepomucen, and an organ case.

In recent history, 2021 meant an important event for the church: the reconstruction of his bell tower saw the installation of new bells named after the Virgin Mary and Saint Agnes Bohemia. These reconstruction efforts underscore continued efforts to preserve the historical and cultural importance of the church.

Today, the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary remains an accessible place that continues to attract visitors who are interested in both her architectural beauty and her rich history. Its status as a protected monument ensures its preservation for future generations. Visitors are invited to explore this baroque jewel, where a harmonious mixture of historical elements and artistic craftsmanship offers a unique view of the history of Bohemia.