Kostel Narození Panny Marie (Loučim) Church
Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary in Loučimi stands at the old cemetery on a slight high by the main road No. 22. The construction is a plastered two-boat goth of the so-called 14th century cockroach goth, characterized by a single central pillar. According to the building and historical survey it was built between 1325 and 1350 as a construction of the family Příchovský. The first written mention of the church dates back to 1357.
An interesting part is the chapel of St. Catherine on the north side. The building analysis ranks it among the original parts of the church built together with the main building. But historical sources indicate its construction in 1404, creating some confusion. Today the chapel serves as a sacristy. The church is surrounded by a wall, which on the east side contains a walled-up polygonal morgue with a needle-shaped Eternite roof. In the direction of the rectory leads the original walled gate divided by pilastries.
The construction is made of quarry stone, which was subsequently plastered. The Nарos and the armrest are fitted with blocks. There's a round staircase on the southwest of the ship. The windows have segmental arches, presbyterium and sacristy are jars of double ribs on the console. The massive four-sided prism tower in the west was built probably in the sixteenth century. In the late Baroque, namely in 1770, it was increased.
Between 1760 and 1770 many repairs took place at the church: windows were replaced, tower was increased and floor was modified. The roof of the tower was damaged by the storm of 1843 and had to be restored. The tower subsequently suffered lightning strikes, the consequences of which were removed between 1905 and 1908. The interior was repaired in 1944. However, the most radical recovery was a general repair between 1968 and 1972, during which the original Gothic form of the construction was returned. The roof has been repaired, new windows with glass covered with lead and new plaster have been made.
The church served as a parish church of the parish Loučim until 2005. After the abolition of the parish on 3 February 2005, he became the Filipino Church of the parish, which thus took over his administration and care for this valuable historical heritage.
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
- 1325-1350
- Construction of the church dates from 1325 to 1350.
- 1404
- Historical sources place the construction of the chapel of St. Catherine until 1404.
Architectural development
The church was developed as a shortened two-boat (cockroach) goth with a single middle pillar. The massive prism tower was built in the 16th century and subsequently increased in the late Baroque of 1770. The internal equipment dates from 1760-1770.
Historical events
- 1357
- First mention of the existence of the parish church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary in the village Loučim.
- 1760-1770
- There have been many repairs, like changing windows and increasing towers.
- 1968-1972
- The general repair of the church gave back the original Gothic form.
Points of interest
- Church of the birth of the Virgin Mary in Loučimi stands at the old cemetery on a slight high by the main road No. 22. - The construction is a plastered two-boat Gothic style of cockroach Gothic from the period 1325 to 1350, built for the genus Příchovský. The first written mention of the church dates back to 1357. - St. Catherine's chapel on the north side is part of the original building, but historical sources indicate its construction in 1404. - The massive four-sided prism tower was built probably in the sixteenth century and increased in the late Baroque of 1770.
Guide
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Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
The Gothic Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary is the most precious and most distinctive building in Loučimi. It stands on a slight elevation at the edge of the village, next to the main road, and its tower with a slender spire is visible from a wide surrounding area. The church is protected as a cultural monument.
According to historical and architectural research, it was built between 1325 and 1350, and the Příchovský family is mentioned as the builders. The first mention of the parish church dates from 1357. The structure belongs to the shortened two-aisle Gothic, which is called Swabian Gothic. Both aisles are supported by a single central pillar. The church was inspired by South German Gothic of the fourteenth century and is counted among rural buildings of this type with high-quality stonework details.
The most precious part is the Chapel of Saint Catherine on the north side, which today serves as a sacristy. According to architectural analysis, it was built at the same time as the church. Historical sources, however, place it in 1404 and locate it by the cemetery wall, where old village maps show a polygonal mortuary house. In its appearance, it resembles old village chapels.
The massive rectangular tower was probably added at the beginning of the 16th century. Between 1760 and 1770, the church underwent a series of repairs. The windows were replaced, the floors were renovated, and in 1770 the tower was heightened. From that time comes all the interior furnishings. The tower roof was damaged by a gale in 1843 and at the beginning of the 20th century lightning struck the tower. In 1944 the interior was restored. A major renovation between 1968 and 1972 returned the church to its original Gothic appearance. During this work, it received a new roof, new plaster, and windows with lead-filled glass.
The church is built of rough stone and plastered, with the corners and buttresses made of ashlar. The tower has narrow windows lined with bricks, and the highest story is pierced by segmental windows. On the south side of the aisle rises a round spiral staircase, whose entrance is now bricked up. The narrower presbytery has a polygonal termination with buttresses of dressed stone. Both the presbytery and sacristy are covered with double ribs with smooth circular keystones.
The church stands on an old cemetery enclosed by a wall. A polygonal mortuary house is built into it on the east side, and toward the rectory, the original brick gate with a wavy gable has been preserved. Until 2005, the church was a parish church. After the Loučimi parish was dissolved, it became a subsidiary church of the Kdyně parish.
Tips for visitors
Best time to visit the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary in Loučimi is an autumn or spring season when nature is particularly charming and light changes so that it emphasizes architectural details of the church. This time of year offers a peaceful moment to understand the history and beauty of this place.
The current connection options should be verified before visiting.
When visiting the church we recommend taking warm clothes, especially in colder months. It is also important to have a camera or mobile phone to capture the beauty of the church and its surroundings. Also remember the water and food if you plan to spend the whole day in Loučimi.
For photography it is best to wait for noon hour when the sun lights the church from the side. The most beautiful views are offered especially by the apex roof of the tower and the interior with Gothic elements. Photography is permitted, but respect the rules of the place.
In the vicinity of the church there are several picturesque paths for walking or cycling. These paths offer an opportunity to relax and discover the beautiful rural environment Loučimi. For families with children is a suitable garden visit in the surroundings, which offers various activities for small and large.
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: Loučim, Plzeňský 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. 27637/4-2133).
For kids
Imagine going back to the past until our country was still full of forests and rivers. Where there are cities today, there were only villages and settlements. And in one of them, in Loučimi, stood the beautiful Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary.
It was like a small chateau, but instead of fortification it had a beautiful tower and decorated cellars. The church was built in the 14th century and its construction lasted many years. Many people were involved in its creation - stonemakers, builders, masons... Each brought something new to the church, something beautiful.
Businesses nearby
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Nearby
ITEX Show interactive overview of the surroundings - restaurants, accommodation, rentals and other places within a 15 km radius.
Data: OpenStreetMap contributors, 15 km radius.
‡ Historical monuments
- New Herštjen (6.3 km)
- Rýzmberk (7.3 km)
- Former Church in Red Wood (9.2 km)
- Božena
- Pajrek (10.1 km)
- sv Jan Nepomucký (11.1 km)
- Former Fortress Desenice (11.2 km)
- Schwirzerdenkmal (12.3 km)
Restaurant and catering
- Hodna U Jbaban (6.9 km)
- Družba (13.3 km)
- Besea (13.6 km - Theatre 191)
- Antibar U Vláce (13.6 km)
- Oliver café under Black Tower (13.6 km)
- Fu Shan (13.7 km)
- Gastroclub (13.7 km)
- Piccolo (13.7 km - Peace Square 170)
Accommodation
- Úžlebec (5.6 km)
- Guesthouse Pranty (6.1 km)
- Below the limit (8.3 km)
- pension VETERHOV (9.0 km)
- Autocamp Nýrsko (9.4 km)
- Rachin (10.9 km)
- Travel inn On the hermit (11.1 km)
- Automping Klatovy (12.0 km)
› Rental and sports
- Na kobyl (6.5 km)
- Sport hala (8.7 km)
- Summer swimming pool Nirsk (9.3 km)
- Koupalisk (11.5 km)
- Swimming pool Strážov (11.8 km)
- Mrákov (12.0 km)
- kupily (12.2 km)
- Center for ball sports (12.5 km)
© Tourism and nature
- Coráb (4.1 km)
- Pod Korabem (4.5 km)
- U column (5.0 km)
- HXHX (5.5 km)
- New Herstejn (hunting grounds) (6.0 km)
- U Memory (6.9 km)
- Subtitle (7.0 km)
- Rýzmberg (view) (7.3 km)
Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Thematic cruise route: Loučim and Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary
1. Kostel Narození Panny Marie (Loučim) - Church The main objective of our route is the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary in Loučimi, which is an architectural pearl region. This Baroque church testifies to the rich history and artistic spirit of the 18th century. Its beautiful interior with frescoes and statues offers visitors a view of the past.
2. Municipal Office Loučim - Historical object After the tour of the church we move to the municipal office in Loučimi, which is located near the church. This historical object was once a chateau's seat and today it serves as an administrative center of the city. Its architecture resembles the history of Loučim, when this place was the heart of local life.
3. Saint Anne's Chapel - Chapel The next point is the chapel of Saint Anne, which is located near the church. This small but interesting chapel attracts visitors with its calm atmosphere and beautiful location. It is an ideal place for peaceful moments and considerations, especially in a quiet rural environment.
4. Built-in area around the church - Historical park After visiting the chapel, we return to the premises around the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary, which is built by historical buildings. This space offers a view of traditional local architecture and provides a suitable place for relaxation or a short walk on the streets of Loučim.
5. Square in Loučimi - Historical Square To conclude the route we visit the historical square in Loučimi, which is the center of local life and culture. This place has served as an important gathering point for residents and guests for centuries. On the square there are various restaurants where you can finish your trip with a pleasant drink or food.
This route offers a view of the historical and cultural wealth of Loučim, with emphasis on the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary as the main goal.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: Loučim offers a wonderful view of the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary in spring, when the green surrounding meadows and trees turn into live tapestries. The sunny days bring a clear atmosphere that illuminates the architectural details of the church in a particularly attractive light. Although the first tourists are beginning to appear, the visit in this period is still quiet and does not take advantage of the full summer potential. We strongly recommend clothes suitable for mild temperature - short gloves, headscarf and sports shoes are the ideal choice. The best time to visit is in the afternoon when the sun lights the church in its most beautiful light.
Summer: The Loučim summer offers full experiences with the Church of the Virgin Mary. The sun day brings a lively atmosphere where the church is projected into the brightness and the surrounding landscape is revived by tourists seeking escape from urban interference. In the main summer season it is recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid large crowds and experience can be enjoyed in a quieter environment. Due to the warm weather it is advisable to dress light - short gloves, sunglasses and a protective apron against UV radiation. Don't forget to bring water and a transparent handkerchief for your head for comfort during your visit.
Autumn: Autumn Loučim offers attractive experiences with the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary, when changing leaf colours create a unique background for architectural beauty. Sundays are particularly attractive because the light refreshes the church and the surrounding area in a golden and red light, adding an atmosphere of peace and quiet. The visit is calmer than in summer, so you can enjoy the church without many people. The recommended clothes suitable for mild temperatures - long gloves and hat to protect against cold winds are the ideal choice. The best time to visit is in the afternoon, when sunlight illuminates the church in its most beautiful autumn glow.
Winter: Winter Loučim offers unique views of the Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary, where the surrounding area is covered with snow and the church adorns light lighting that adds magic to the atmosphere. A cold day creates a quiet environment, ideal for using historical monuments without large crowds. The visit is also suitable during the advent period, when the surroundings turn into a view of winter beauty. It is important to come with warm clothes - fur coat or long gloves and protective shoes against freezing, so that you can enjoy a visit in comfort. The best time to visit is in the afternoon, when sunlight refreshes the church and surroundings in a special winter light.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
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Sources and literature
Photos: Veronika Suchá / CC BY-SA 3.0, 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.
Location on the map
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