Kostel svatého Marka (Sušany) Church
The Church of St. Mark in Sušany is a Gothic church with Baroque elements, situated on the edge of a valley surrounded by a cemetery. This monument boasts a rich history and architectural heritage.
Prior to 1357, the church was first mentioned as a parish church, likely patronized by Bernard z Vildenfelsu. The original Gothic structure underwent significant changes over the centuries, including a Baroque renovation in 1729 that added new elements to its architecture. In the 19th century, further renovations resulted in the loss of some original features.
The Church of St. Mark is a single-nave Gothic structure with a rectangular presbytery and a younger sacristy connected from the north. The original entrance was bricked up, and today's main entrance is located on the west side. The nave has a flat ceiling, while the presbytery and lower tower are vaulted with a cross-shaped roof. The floor is covered in opus caementicium.
The church's architecture has been shaped by various styles over the centuries. The original Gothic structure was expanded with Baroque elements in the 18th century, followed by renovations in the 19th century. Today, the church retains its Gothic core, with Baroque additions and a tower dating back to the 2nd half of the 14th century.
The Church of St. Mark has been an integral part of the local community for centuries. In 1994, the roof was renovated, and in 2000, documents about the church's history were placed in a shrine on the tower. Today, the church is surrounded by a cemetery wall with a gate featuring a tympanum.
The Church of St. Mark is an important cultural monument offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural heritage. Visitors can explore its architecture, learn about its history, and pay respects to those buried in the surrounding cemetery.
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
- 1357
- First mention of the church as a parish church
- 1400
- Original Gothic structure built
- 1729
- Baroque renovation adds new elements to architecture
- 19
- Further renovations result in loss of some original features (approx. 19th century)
- 1994
- Roof renovated
- 2000
- Documents about church's history placed in shrine on tower
Architectural development
The original Gothic structure was expanded with Baroque elements in the 18th century, and later underwent renovations in the 19th century.
Historical events
Before 1357: The church was first mentioned as a parish church; 1729: A significant Baroque renovation took place
Points of interest
– The original Gothic structure of the church was built on a site where an ancient Celtic settlement once stood.
– In the 18th century, the Baroque renovation of the church included the addition of ornate stone carvings and gilded decorations that were later lost during subsequent renovations.
– The Church of St. Mark has been involved in the local community's life for centuries, serving as a place for baptisms, weddings, and funerals, as well as a hub for social gatherings and cultural events.
– The church's unique architecture is characterized by a blend of Gothic and Baroque styles, with a striking example being the ornate stone tympanum above the main entrance, which features intricate carvings and gilded details.
– In 2000, a shrine was placed on the tower to house documents about the church's history, providing visitors with a glimpse into the church's rich past.
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 Saint Mark belongs to the oldest structures in Sušany on the Chomutov district. It stands on the southern edge of the village, on an inconspicuous edge of a shallow valley near the road to Škrle. It is surrounded by a cemetery wall with a mortuary chapel, and the cemetery is entered through an arched gate with a tympanum. Since 1963, the church has been protected as a cultural monument.
It is first mentioned in writing in the year 1357, already as a parish church. It must therefore have been built earlier. The priest of the Sušany benefice at that time was a certain Johann, and the patron of the church was Bernard of Vildenfelsu, who probably also owned part of the village. It is possible that the church originally served as a tribune church near the manor of a local nobleman. Already in 1281, Peter of Sušany is mentioned.
During the Renaissance, some windows were enlarged. A fundamental Baroque renovation came only in 1729, and the tower probably originated at that time as well. The rectory in Sušany meanwhile ceased to exist. It was abolished in the 17th century, and only in 1777 was it replaced by a curacy. In the 19th century, the roof was lowered and Baroque ornaments disappeared from the façade. Roof repairs began in 1994, and five years later, documents about the church's history were placed in a box on the roof of the tower.
It is a single-nave Gothic structure with a square presbytery. From the north, a somewhat younger sacristy with a barrel vault adjoins it, which is entered through a Gothic portal. The original entrance to the nave led from the north through a pointed arch, but today it is bricked up. The nave has a flat ceiling, whereas the presbytery and the ground floor of the tower are vaulted with a cross vault. The floor is covered with tuff paving. In the western part of the nave stands a Baroque oratory on simple pillars.
A wooden spiral staircase in a staircase annex leads to the upper floors of the tower. The façade of the tower is decorated only by simple lesenes on the corners. Only the stepped crown cornice retains a Baroque character. The tent roof of the tower transitions into an octagonal lantern topped with a pyramid.
The furnishings of the church have not been preserved. They were taken to depots or stolen.
Tips for visitors
Best Time to Visit: The Church of St. Mark in Sušany is a year-round attraction, but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the surrounding valley is lush and green. Avoid visiting during peak summer months as it can get quite hot and crowded. If you're looking for a peaceful experience, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not too harsh.
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: Sušany, Ústecký 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. 19392/5-766).
Businesses nearby
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Events nearby
Zdroj akcí: otevřená data měst a obcí ČR (Národní katalog otevřených dat) a kalendář akcí Národního památkového ústavu.
Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Sušany Heritage Trail
The trail takes you on a journey through the charming town of Sušany, culminating at the stunning Kostel svatého Marka (Sušany).
1. Sušany Town Square: Start your day in the heart of Sušany's historic center, surrounded by beautiful Baroque architecture and quaint shops. 2. Baroque Houses: Take a stroll around the town's picturesque streets to admire the well-preserved Baroque houses, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage. 3. Kostel svatého Marka (Sušany): The pièce de résistance is this stunning church, built in the 18th century and featuring an impressive tower and ornate interior.
This trail offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, giving you a glimpse into Sušany's rich past.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring
The Church of St. Mark is especially beautiful during spring, when the surrounding nature awakens from its winter slumber. The gentle sunlight and blooming flowers create a serene atmosphere, perfect for contemplation and reflection. As the weather warms up, visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings without the crowds that come later in the summer. Practical tip: Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday sun.
Summer
Summer is peak tourist season at the Church of St. Mark, but it's still possible to find a quiet moment amidst the lush greenery and vibrant flowers. The warm weather makes for a pleasant stroll around the churchyard, while the gentle breeze carries the sweet scent of blooming lavender. Practical tip: Arrive early or later in the day to avoid the crowds that gather during peak hours.
Autumn
As autumn arrives, the Church of St. Mark takes on a golden hue, with leaves rustling in the crisp air. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, perfect for a quiet visit or contemplation. As the days shorten, the church's interior lighting becomes more pronounced, casting a warm glow over the ancient stone walls. Practical tip: Wrap up warmly, as the autumn mornings can be chilly.
Winter
Winters at the Church of St. Mark are tranquil and peaceful, with snowflakes gently falling onto the frozen landscape. The cold weather creates an atmosphere of serenity, while the church's interior lighting takes on a warm, cozy glow. Practical tip: Dress warmly, as the winter mornings can be quite chilly.
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: Pavel Kinšt / CC BY-SA 3.0 — 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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