kostel svatého Bartoloměje (Luka nad Jihlavou) Church
The Church of St. Bartholomew in Luka nad Jihlavou is an outstanding example of late Baroque architecture located at the heart of this charming town. Situated on a hilltop, it serves as the parish church for the Roman Catholic community and is recognized as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. Constructed between 1755 and 1763, this single-nave structure replaced an earlier Romanesque church plundered by Swedish forces during wartime. The church's segmental end and its western four-sided tower, remnants of the original Romanesque building, contribute to its historical significance.
The origins of the Church of St. Bartholomew date back to when Bohemia was part of the Habsburg Monarchy, an era marked by cultural and architectural development influenced by the Baroque style. Built on the site of a destroyed Romanesque predecessor under Dominik hrabě z Kounic's ownership, this transition from Romanesque to Baroque reflects broader European trends during the mid-18th century when powerful nobility often patronized arts and architecture.
Architecturally, the Church of St. Bartholomew is distinguished by its late Baroque style, characterized by a single-nave design and segmental end. The lower part of the original Romanesque tower was preserved during a 1804 reconstruction, maintaining a link to the church's earlier history. Over time, significant additions like organ installations and bell replacements have contributed to its evolving character.
Throughout its history, the church has undergone several key events shaping its current form. In 1845, new bells were installed, enhancing its auditory presence in the community. The installation of a new organ in 1911 marked another development, with these instruments being reconstructed in 2010 to preserve their historical and musical value. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance the church's role as a center for worship and cultural heritage.
Today, the Church of St. Bartholomew remains an active parish church, open to visitors who wish to explore its rich history and architectural beauty. The main altar features an image of St. Bartholomew by Josef Šteiner, adding artistic value to the religious experience within its walls. With its blend of historical elements and ongoing preservation efforts, the church offers a unique glimpse into the past while continuing as a vibrant community landmark.
Visiting the Church of St. Bartholomew in Luka nad Jihlavou provides an opportunity to appreciate not only its architectural splendor but also its deep-rooted history within the region. Its status as a cultural monument underscores its importance, making it a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Czech 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
- 1755
- Construction began on a new Baroque church.
- 1763
- Completion of the Baroque church construction.
- 1804
- Reconstruction of the tower retaining its lower part in original state.
- 1845
- Installation of new bells in the church.
- 1911
- New organ installation in the church.
- 2010
- Reconstruction of the organs.
Architectural development
The Church of St. Bartholomew was constructed as a Baroque building on the site of an earlier Romanesque church that had been destroyed. The lower part of the original tower remains from the Romanesque structure, preserved during its reconstruction in 1804. Over time, the church has seen additions such as organ installations and bell replacements.
Historical events
The original Romanesque church was destroyed and replaced with a Baroque structure between 1755 and 1763 under the ownership of Dominik hrabě z Kounic.
In 1804, the tower underwent reconstruction while retaining its lower part in the original state.
New bells were installed in 1845, followed by new organ installations in 1911 which were later reconstructed in 2010.
Owners
Dominik, Count of Kounic
Points of interest
- The Church of St. Bartholomew's construction was funded by Dominik hrabě z Kounic, a notable nobleman whose patronage reflects the era’s trend of aristocratic involvement in cultural and architectural projects.
- During its reconstruction in 1804, only the lower part of the original Romanesque tower was preserved, highlighting an intriguing blend of old and new architectural styles that tell a story of resilience and adaptation over centuries.
- The church's bells were replaced in 1845, but it wasn't until 2010 that both the organ and bells underwent significant reconstruction efforts to preserve their historical integrity, showcasing ongoing dedication to maintaining its cultural heritage.
- An interesting artistic element within the church is the main altar painting of St. Bartholomew by Josef Šteiner, adding a layer of artistic significance and enhancing the spiritual ambiance with local artistry from the region.
- Despite suffering plundering at the hands of Swedish forces during wartime, which led to its replacement in the late 18th century, the Church of St. Bartholomew stands today as a testament to the community’s enduring spirit and commitment to preserving their cultural landmarks.
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.
Church of Saint Bartholomew stands on a hilltop in the center of the town of Luka nad Jihlavou. It is the parish church of the local Roman Catholic parish and is protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic.
Today's church is a late Baroque single-nave structure with a segmented choir. However, an older Romanesque church used to stand in its place. That church was plundered by Swedish forces and only the western four-sided tower remained from it. The tower underwent reconstruction in 1804, but its lower part retained its original appearance. It is thus the oldest preserved part of the entire structure.
The new church was built on the site of its demolished predecessor between 1755 and 1763. The parish belonged at that time to Dominik, Count of Kounic.
Three original bells are of great value to the church. The oldest dates from the first half of the fifteenth century. Another was cast in 1507. The third, the so-called death knell, dates from 1534. The bell from 1507 shows an incorrect date of 1504 and a weight of 1500 kilograms in many sources. Both pieces of information arose from a misinterpretation of period numerals and units. The bell has never actually been weighed, but based on its shape and dimensions it weighs approximately 650 kilograms.
Above the main altar hangs a painting of Saint Bartholomew by Josef Šteiner. Besides the main altar, the church has four side altars from 1890.
The church acquired an organ for the first time in 1845. In 1911 it was replaced with a new instrument, which underwent reconstruction in 2010.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit the Church of St. Bartholomew in Luka nad Jihlavou is during late spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant, allowing for comfortable exploration and photography without the crowds typical of summer months. The lighting during these times can enhance the architectural details of this stunning late Baroque church, making it an ideal period for both sightseeing and capturing its beauty.
Bartholomew can be limited due to its central location in Luka nad Jihlavou. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park outside the town center and walk up to the hilltop where the church is situated.
When visiting, it's advisable to bring comfortable walking shoes as the church stands on a hilltop, which might require a bit of a climb. Also, consider bringing a camera with a zoom lens for capturing detailed shots of the church’s architecture and interior decorations. A small notebook or sketchpad could also be useful for jotting down thoughts or sketches inspired by your visit.
For photography enthusiasts, the best spots around the Church of St. Bartholomew are from its hilltop location, offering panoramic views that beautifully frame the church against the landscape. Early morning light can provide a soft glow on the church’s facade, while late afternoon light accentuates its architectural details with dramatic shadows.
Nearby, within a 30-minute drive or walk, visitors can explore other historical sites and natural attractions around Luka nad Jihlavou. These include local museums that delve into the region's history and culture, as well as scenic trails for those interested in hiking or cycling amidst picturesque landscapes. It’s a great way to extend your visit and experience more of what the Vysočina Region has to offer.
Families with children will find the Church of St. Bartholomew an interesting stop on their itinerary. The church's architecture and history can be fascinating for kids, especially when explained in engaging ways. Consider bringing along a small guidebook or downloading information from the church’s official website beforehand to make your visit more interactive. Also, plan some time after your visit at one of the nearby parks or trails where children can run around and enjoy nature.
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: Luka nad Jihlavou, Kraj Vysočina. 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. 42116/7-4986).
Businesses nearby
Do you run a restaurant, accommodation, shop, museum, rental, wellness or other visitor service near this monument? Show yourself directly to the people heading to it — this is how they will see you in the app and on the web:
Nearby
The church is located in the village of Luka nad Jihlavou, in the Vysočina Region.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
Affiliate link: if you buy from the partner, we may receive a commission. The price for you does not change.
Search tours and activities →Themed route
Tematická výletní trasa kolem kostela svatého Bartoloměje (Luka nad Jihlavou)
1. Kostel svatého Bartoloměje
Typ: Historický kostel
Tento barokní chrám je nejvýraznějším architektonickým dílem v Luce nad Jihlavou a stojí za návštěvu pro své bohaté historie a umělecké prvky. Vnitřek kostela fascinuje barokní oltáře a fresky, které představují důležité momenty z křesťanské tradice.
2. Náměstí Míru
Typ: Historické náměstí
Nachází se v centrální části města, asi 5 minut chůze od kostela svatého Bartoloměje. Náměstí je známé jako místo dřívějších trhů a veřejných setkání. Dnes zde stojí socha svatého Jana Nepomuckého, která přitahuje pozornost návštěvníků.
3. Městský dům
Typ: Historický obecní úřad
Tento barokní objekt se nachází v okolí kostela svatého Bartoloměje, což je ideální místo pro zastavení a prohlédnutí. Městský dům je známý svou architekturou a historickou hodnotou jako bývalý sídlo místní správy.
4. Kostel Panny Marie
Typ: Kostel
Tento kostel se nachází v blízkosti náměstí Míru, což z něj činí snadno dostupný cíl pro další prohlédnutí. Je známý svou gotickou architekturou a je důležitým místem pro místní náboženské události.
Tato trasa nabízí pohled na kulturní a historické bohatství Luki nad Jihlavou, přičemž všechny body jsou snadno dostupné pěšky.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: Visiting the Church of Saint Bartholomew during spring offers a unique experience as nature begins to awaken around Luka nad Jihlavou. The surrounding landscape is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and budding trees, creating an idyllic setting that enhances the church's historical charm. As daylight lingers longer into the evening, visitors can enjoy the gentle illumination of the church’s architecture by natural light, which softens its ancient stones. Spring in Vysočina is generally mild but can be unpredictable with occasional rain showers, so it's advisable to wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket. This season often sees moderate visitor numbers, making it an ideal time for those seeking a quieter exploration of the church.
Summer: Summer brings lively energy to the Church of Saint Bartholomew as Vysočina enjoys its warmest weather. The lush greenery surrounding Luka nad Jihlavou provides a picturesque backdrop that complements the historic architecture, while longer daylight hours allow for extended visits and photography opportunities in natural light. This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. To avoid long lines at the entrance, consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Light, breathable clothing is recommended to stay comfortable under the summer sun, along with a hat and sunscreen for added protection.
Autumn: The autumn months transform the Church of Saint Bartholomew into a serene sanctuary amidst a tapestry of fall colors. As leaves turn golden and red around Luka nad Jihlavou, they create a stunning contrast against the church's historic façade. The cooler temperatures make for pleasant strolls through the surrounding countryside. During this season, visitor numbers tend to decrease after the summer rush, offering a more tranquil experience. It’s wise to dress in layers as mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, while daytime remains mild. Carrying an umbrella is also advisable due to the potential for rain showers.
Winter: Winter at the Church of Saint Bartholomew offers a magical atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes that enhance its historic beauty. The crisp air and shorter days create a serene setting, ideal for those seeking solitude or reflection. Dress warmly in layers, with insulated boots and gloves, to comfortably enjoy your visit. Despite the cold, the church remains a peaceful retreat during this quieter season, perfect for appreciating its architecture against the snowy backdrop.
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.
Tips from visitors
No tips yet. Be the first!
Log in and add your tip.
Sources and literature
Photos: Juan88 / CC BY-SA 4.0, 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
Příběhy a pověsti
Legendy, pověsti a příběhy spjaté s touto památkou
Fotografie návštěvníků
Zatím žádné fotografie. Buďte první, kdo přidá fotografii z návštěvy!
Log in a přidejte svou fotografii nebo hodnoťte.
Za ověřenou návštěvu v aplikaci získáte víc bodů — poznáme podle GPS, že jste na místě.
Reviews and comments