The Church of Saint Martin in Chrast is a Baroque church located in Chrašice, part of the municipality of Chrast in the Pardubice Region of the Czech Republic. Constructed between 1720 and 1721, it stands as a cultural monument recognized for its architectural significance and historical importance. The design is attributed to Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel, a renowned architect known for his Baroque style. This church underwent significant transformation at the beginning of the 18th century, marking it as an important example of Baroque architecture in the region.

The site where the Church of Saint Martin now stands has been documented since 1349, indicating that earlier structures existed there before undergoing several transformations over the centuries. The most notable change occurred at the start of the 18th century when the church was extensively reconstructed. Although Santini's authorship is not directly documented in archives, it is strongly suggested through stylistic analysis and his known association with Bishop Jan Adam Vratislav z Mitrovic, who commissioned the reconstruction. This connection further solidifies Santini’s influence on the project.

Architecturally, the church features a simple interior design with a flat-ceiling nave and an older vaulted chancel. The exterior is distinguished by its crystalline arrangement of smooth walls forming sharp angles, typical of Santini's late work. These elements contribute to the building's striking appearance as it changes perspective when viewed from different angles. The structure includes a kiosk-shaped base with two protruding corners and an elongated three-lobed presbytery on the east side. Additional features include lisenas, flat pilasters, and segmental arches that frame its windows.

The Church of Saint Martin's history is marked by significant events tied to Bishop Jan Adam Vratislav z Mitrovic. In 1720, he consecrated the church and held the first mass there on November 10th. The decoration was completed, and the church was reconsecrated on August 3rd, 1721. These events underscore the church's religious significance during its early years.

Jan Ludvík Pešinský, Santini’s assistant and a carpenter from Hradec Králové, played a crucial role in crafting the interior decorations of the church. He is credited with creating three altars dedicated to Saint Martin, Saint Wenceslas, and Saint Briccius, as well as other decorative elements such as door trims and parapets. This collaboration highlights the artistic contributions that complemented Santini’s architectural vision.

Today, the Church of Saint Martin remains a protected cultural monument in the Czech Republic, registered under number 21545/6-871 since May 3, 1958. Despite its historical significance, the church is currently closed and used only occasionally. In recent years, it has undergone restoration efforts, including the installation of a new roof in 2010 as part of the architectural heritage conservation program, which allocated approximately 6,095,000 Kč for repairs between 1995 and 2014.

Visitors interested in Baroque architecture and Czech cultural history will find the Church of Saint Martin an intriguing site. Its unique design and historical context offer a glimpse into the artistic and religious influences of early 18th-century Bohemia. Although access is limited, its preservation ensures that future generations can appreciate this remarkable example of Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel’s architectural legacy.