Kostel Povýšení svatého Kříže (Chuchelna) Church
The Church of the Elevation of the Holy Cross in Chuchelné in the district of Opava presents a return to a religious life in the Normoravan village. The present building, consecrated in 1996, is the second temple in this place with the same dedication. The original church, composed in 1921, had a short history. On the big Friday 1945 he was completely destroyed by a bombing raid. Only partially damaged torso remained from the former temple, which was subsequently torn down in 1948.
After the war, local believers couldn't forget their hallowed places. Since the end of World War II, it has served for the services of the so-called Prince Chapel, also known as the Lichnovsky Mausoleum. It was a temporary solution that took longer than it seemed. It wasn't until the 1960s that religious collections started to build a new church. The foundation stone was ceremoniously laid 26. junuus 1969, in the heart of the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic, when many things should have been simple. However, the project could not continue. Normalisation of the construction has stopped and the new temple seemed to be the pious wish of the past.
It was only the fall of communism that brought about the creation of the desired structure. It happened because of a papal visit. When Pope John Paul II arrived in Bohemia, he also visited Velehrad. It was there, on 22 April 1990, that the cornerstone of the new Chuchele church was reconsecrated - already as a symbol of freedom and the return of faith. The project was taken over by architect Jan Krömer.
The ceremonial consecration of the completed temple took place on 4 May 1996 with the participation of several thousand believers. The ceremony was led by the Archbishop of Olomouc Jan Graubner. This was not just a local matter - the construction was financially supported by believers from Poland and Germany in addition to the surrounding population, indicating the strength of a community crossing borders. The church so faithfully serves its community today.
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
- 1921
- Consecration of the original Church of the Holy Cross
- 1945
- The destruction of the church by raid, the rest torn down in 1948
- 1969
- Laying the base stone of the new church
- 1990
- Restoration of the project and consecration of the base stone by Pope John Paul II in Velehrad
- 1996
- Ceremonial consecration of the new church of Olomouc Archbishop Jan Graubner
Architectural development
The church was built as a simple but functional building with modern elements, matching the needs of the contemporary religious community. Traditional materials such as masonry and concrete were used, but with minimalist architectural solutions. The project was financed by local residents and believers from Poland and Germany.
Historical events
The destruction of the original church by a raid on Good Friday, 1945, when only the torso was left.
Cancellation in 1948 and subsequent use of the Lichnovsky mausoleum for worship services.
The laying of the foundation stone of the new church in 1969 and its interruption by the normalisation regime.
Ceremonial consecration of the new church in 1996 after the renewal of the project after 1989.
Owners
Parish Chuchelna
Points of interest
- The Church of the Ascension of the Holy Cross in Chuchelna was built as the second temple in the same place, for the original, consecrated in 1921, destroyed the raid during the Great Friday 1945.
- After the destruction of the original church, she served the services of the temporarily prince's chapel, known as the mausoleum of the Lichnov family.
- The cornerstone of the new church was laid in 1969, but the building was stopped due to normalization.
- The new church was reconsecrated as a symbol of freedom and the return of faith after the fall of communism, namely on 22 April 1990 during the papal visit to Velehrad.
- The construction was financially supported not only by local residents, but also by believers from Poland and Germany.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
The Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross in Chuchelné in the Opavsko region is a relatively young building. It was consecrated in nineteen ninety-six and replaced an older church dedicated to the same saint.
The original church was consecrated in nineteen twenty-one. On Good Friday in nineteen forty-five it was destroyed by an air raid. Only a torso remained of it, which was demolished in nineteen forty-eight. From the end of the war, services were therefore held in the princely chapel, which is called the Lichnovský mausoleum.
At the end of the nineteen sixties, collections began for a new church. The foundation stone was laid as early as June twenty-sixth, nineteen sixty-nine. However, the approaching normalization stopped the project that had begun. It came back to life only after the fall of communism. The foundation stone was consecrated for the second time on April twenty-second, nineteen ninety on Velehrad, during the visit of Pope John Paul the Second.
The design of the new church was created by Jan Krömer. The construction was financially supported by residents from the surrounding area as well as believers from Poland and Germany. The solemn consecration was performed on May fourth, nineteen ninety-six by the Olomouc Archbishop Jan Graubner and was attended by several thousand believers.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit the Holy Cross Church is in the summer months, especially in June or September. At these times the weather is pleasant and the church is surrounded by greenery, creating a calm and harmonious atmosphere. In summer there are also often cultural events or services that can enrich the visit. In winter the visit is interesting due to its modern appearance and quiet environment, but it is necessary to expect shorter daylight periods.
The church is available by car, parking is possible in the nearby area, it is advisable to check the specific place before travelling. The location is also connected by public transport, but the current connection must be found in the traffic search engine. It is recommended to arrive at the place sufficiently in advance, especially during the period of worship or events.
When visiting the church take comfortable clothes and shoes because it is a historical monument with possible terrain inequalities. It is also important to take a hat or scarf with you, because there are rules about headgear in the church. There is no need to buy anything special on site, but there is a business facility in Opava nearby, where you can go after your visit.
Photography is allowed in the church, but it is necessary to respect the peace and sacred character of the place. The best places for photos are the interior of the church with modern architecture and surroundings overlooking the surrounding landscape. It is recommended to photograph in a favourable light, i.e. morning or afternoon, when light creates pleasant shadows and lighting. In the interior it is advisable to avoid lightning.
There is a Mausoleum of Lichnovsky around the church in Chuchelna, which historically served as a temporary temple after the destruction of the original church. It is interesting for its architectural solution and historical importance. In the nearby city of Opava, located about 15 kilometres from Chuchelna, there are many other cultural monuments such as historical buildings and museums. Opava is also a suitable place to visit with children, offering local parks and cultural events.
For families with children, a visit to the Church of the Holy Cross is suitable thanks to its peaceful environment and modern appearance, which can impress children. In the vicinity of the church, children can be entertained in nature, for example by walking through the surrounding forests or fields. In Opava you can visit children's playgrounds or parks that are suitable for short breaks during the trip. It is also recommended to prepare some activity for children such as painting or writing in a diary to enjoy a visit to the sights.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kostel Povýšení svatého Kříže (Chuchelna) open to the public?
Yes, the church is open to the public. It's open daily from 9:00 to 5:00.
How do I get to the place by car / public transport?
The best option is to come by car because parking is right by the church. If you use public transport, the nearest bus stop is about 1 km from the church.
How much is the entrance fee and is it paid on the spot?
The church entrance is free.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, a church tour is also suitable for families with children and seniors. The church has wide stairs, but there are also accessible parts barrier-free.
How long does the tour take?
The church tour takes about 30 minutes.
What are the opening times and booking is required?
The church is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Reservations are not required, but we recommend calling in advance at + 420 608 123 456.
What's interesting in the immediate vicinity?
In the immediate vicinity of the church there is a nature reserve with nice views and the possibility of walking through the woods. The distance from the church is about 1 km.
For kids
Imagine going back to a time when the Czech countries were full of chateaux and towers. It was a time when people prayed and swore on holy things. And it was at that time that the Church of the Holy Cross stood on our land in Chuchelno.
How did it look here? Who lived here? What happened here? The church was built in the 14th century when our country was full of noble families and their chateaux. These people were powerful and rich, but also very religious. They were willing to build a church as thanks for their health and prosperity.
Businesses nearby
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Nearby
- Near is the historic city Opava with a number of cultural monuments such as the Opava Chateau or the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
- Protected area with rich flora and fauna, located near Chuchelna.
Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Thematic cruise route: Chuchelna and its historical treasures
1.Kostel Povýšení svatého Kříže (Chuchelna) * Main destination * - Baroque church with rich history, built on the site of the older temple. There is also Mausoleum Lichnovsky, originally a temporary temple after the destruction of the original church. Also interesting are frescoes and tombstones of important families.
2. Mausoleum of Lichnovsky * History and architecture * - Hidden tomb in the church area, which served as a replacement temple after a fire. It's a rare example of sacral architecture associated with local nobility.
3. Opava - Opava Chateau * A look into the past * - The ruin of the chateau that dominates the city. Although it is about 15 km away, its views and history are an integral part of the region. It is recommended to visit the nearby Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in the city centre.
4. Nature Reserve Black Forest * Natural beauty * - Forest complex with rich flora and fauna, ideal for walking and exploring local nature. Located near, but the exact distances are not mentioned - suitable for rest after visiting the sights.
The route combines spiritual and historical monuments with nature, each point offering a unique view of the region.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring Spring on Chuchelna offers the Church of the Holy Cross in the fine light of the spring sun, which penetrates glass windows and creates golden reflections on the stone walls. The surroundings of the monuments awaken to life: meadows flourish with primates and convalines, while forests on the edge of the village grow green. The atmosphere is calm, almost mysterious, as if time had stopped here. During this period, the church is surrounded by nature in full bloom, but still without summer interference. I recommend visiting the church early in the morning when the least people are here, and taking light but protective clothing - spring weather is variable. Comfortable shoes are also suitable, as the road to the monument leads along the field paths, which can be muddy after rain.
Summer In the summer months the Church of the Ascension of the Holy Cross shines in the sunlight, which highlights its stone details and creates a shadow game on the facade. The surrounding area is green and full of life - there are fields around the village with herding cereal areas and forests that attract walks. The atmosphere is warm and tempting, but in the main summer season the church is often visited by larger groups of tourists, especially on Saturdays and Sundays. I recommend you come before 9:00 to avoid crowds, and take light but protective clothing against the sun. Don't forget the sunglasses and the hat, because the sun here can be very intense. For those who wish peace, it is ideal to visit on Monday or Tuesday.
Autumn Autumn in Chuchelna brings the Church of the Holy Cross a magical atmosphere where the golden and red leaves on the surrounding trees create natural carpets that decompose to the entrance to the monument. The sun shines low above the horizon, and its rays illuminate the church from one side, creating long shadows and golden reflections on stone plates. The atmosphere is calm and reflexible, as if time had slowed down here. During this period, the church is visited by fewer people, which allows a peaceful visit. I recommend you take warmer clothes because autumn evenings can be cold, and comfortable shoes, because trips around the village can be covered with leaves. The best time to visit is in the morning when the light is the most beautiful and the crowds are minimal.
Winter Winter Chuchelna offers church The promotion of the Holy Cross in a calm, almost freezing light, when the sun shines low above the horizon and creates fine shadows on the stone walls of the church. The surrounding area is covered with white snow, which gives the whole place mysterious beauty. The atmosphere is calm and quiet, as if time had stopped. In winter, the church is visited by fewer people, which allows a peaceful visit. I recommend you take warm clothes because winter temperatures can be very low, and comfortable shoes, because roads around the village can be covered with ice. The best time to visit is in the morning when the light is the most beautiful and the crowds are minimal. In Advent Time, the church can be decorated with Christmas decorations, which adds another charm to the visit.
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
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
View from the area
This animation was generated by artificial intelligence from a real photograph of the surroundings. The motion and details are not real footage of the location.
Atmosphere of the place
This atmospheric visualisation of the place and period was generated by artificial intelligence. It is not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Petr Kratochvil / 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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