Kostel svatého Vojtěcha (Broumov) Church
The Church of St. Vojtěv in Broumov is a Benedict monastery connecting Gothic beginnings with Baroque reconstruction. The combination of these styles and rich decoration made of the course of centuries makes it an important work of Czech sacral architecture.
The history of the church dates back to 1357, when the construction of Gothic double ships with polygonal closure of the priestry, a large clock tower and a smaller bell tower on the north side were probably completed. The church was dedicated from the beginning to Saint Vojtěv. The admiration of the faithful was also gained by the Gothic Madonna from the mid-14th century, whose fame was enhanced by a legend attributed to her dedication to the monastery of Archbishop Arnošt of Pardubice.
A radical change was brought about by baroque reconstruction. opat Tomáš Sartori was launched by Martin Allie from Löwenthal. Its completion was carried out by the brothers Kryštof and Kilián Ignác Dietzenhoffer for Abbot Otmar Zinke, who intervened in other monasteries.
The interior of the church shows the quality of the Baroque period. The frescoes of John J. S. of Steinfels depict the life of Saint Vojtěch and the walls of the presbytery scene from the history of the abbey and the life of Christ. The stucco decoration comes from Tommaso and Antonio Soldati. Immediately after construction, the church had twelve altars. The main altar, originally created by Jan Brokoff, was replaced in 1722 by the work of Matìj V. Jäckel with statues of St. Wenceslas and St. John Nepomuk. Jäckel is also the author of statues in side altars. The main altar painting from 1870 comes from Antonín Lhota. The paintings on the side altars were created by Václav V. Reiner in 1721-1722 for the chapel of St. Benedict, St. Margaret, the Holy Apostle, the Earth Patrons, the Holy Family and the Painful Virgin Mary.
Other important pieces include sculptures by Karl J. Hiernle and pulpit from 1671- 1672, created by the joint work of carver Jerome Kohl, carpenter Matej Vockinger and painter John B. Hesse. In the sacristy there is fresco from Felix A. Scheffler with the motive of Victim Melchizedek and stucco from Bernard Spinetti. The church is accessible during services held in May to October each Tuesday from 5 pm.
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
- The completion of the original Gothic building of St. Vojtěv church with polygonal conclusion of the priesthood and a large clock tower.
- 1671-1672
- Production of the pulpit, joint works by Jerome Kohl, Matìj Vockinger and Jan B. Hess.
- 1721-1722
- Creation of lateral altar paintings by Václav V. Reiner and sculptures by Matìj V. Jäckel.
- 1870
- Creating a major altar painting by Antonín Lhotou.
Architectural development
The original church was built in a Gothic style with a two-boat system and a polygonal conclusion of the priesthood. In the 17th century it was rebuilt in a Baroque style according to the Martin Allie project from Löwenthal, later completed by Kryštof and Kilian Ignác Dientzenhofer. The interior was richly decorated with fresco, stucco decoration and sculptor parts, the main altar was replaced by the work of Matej V. Jäckel. The church preserved the original Gothic elements, especially in towers and priesthood.
Historical events
- 1357
- Completion of the original Gothic building of the church with two ships, polygonal conclusion of the priesthood and towers.
- 17th Century
- Opening of Baroque reconstruction of the church as abbot Tomáš Sartoria.
- 1722
- Completion of Baroque reconstruction and decoration of the church, including sculpture and painting works.
Points of interest
- The Church of St. Vojtěv in Broumov was founded as a Benedict monastery church with a combination of Gothic beginnings and Baroque reconstruction.
- Gothic church with two boats, polygonal conclusion of the priestry, large clock tower and smaller bell tower was probably completed already in 1357.
- The church was dedicated from the beginning to Saint Vojtěch and hosted the famous Gothic Madonna from the middle of the 14th century, which was given by Archbishop Arnošt of Pardubice according to legend.
- Baroque reconstruction was started by Abbot Tomáš Sartoria according to the Martin Allie project from Löwenthal and completed under the leadership of the brothers Kryštof and Kilián Ignác Dietzenhoffer.
- The interior of the church contains frescoes of John J. S. from Steinfels depicting the life of St. Vojtěch and scenes from the history of the abbey, as well as stucco decorations from Tommaso and Antonio Soldati.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
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This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome to one of the most important sacral monuments of our country - the church of Saint Vojtěch in Broumov. You are standing in front of a monumental building that combines Gothic roots with baroque glory and carried centuries of spiritual and artistic life. Look around you - in front of you there are mighty walls that reflect not only the service tradition, but also the stories of the masters who made history with their hands.
This church was founded as a monastery temple of the Benedict Abbey in 1357. Originally a Gothic building with a polygonal conclusion of the priesthood and a massive clock tower was to serve as a spiritual centre of the region. However, the time and changes of styles have brought a baroque transformation that has given the church the wonderful richness that you admire today. The reconstruction took place in the 17th and 18th centuries, with architects like Martin Allia z Löwenthalu or the Dientzenhofer brothers - Kryštof and Kilián Ignác - leaving their inseparable traces. But the original Gothic core has been preserved, which is still the skeleton of this monument.
Look at the facade of the church. His facade is proof of the Baroque style that gave the church the impressive and harmonious form. The inner space offers an amazing mosaic of works of art. Now pay attention to the interior - even if you cannot move inside, imagine what you can see here. The walls are decorated with fresco, stucco decoration and sculptor parts, which come from masters like Jan Brokoff or Matěj V. Jäckel. Their work here consists not only of decoration, but also of a spiritual atmosphere that persists to this day.
Among the most important works of art are the pulpit of 1671-1672, the joint work of Jeroným Kohl, Matej Vockinger and Jan B. Hess. Their work represents the peak of the baroque craft. Other key elements are the lateral altar paintings of Václav V. Reinerr and the sculpture decoration of Matìj V. Jäckel from the beginning of the 18th century. And don't forget to notice the main altar painting by Antonín Lhota in 1870 - his work perfectly closes the artistic path of the church from goth to romanticism.
Let's look at those who shaped this memory. Abbot Tomáš Sartori and Abbot Otmar Zinke were key figures, which the monastery and church in the Middle Ages and the early New Testament led to its glory. Their decision and care allowed a simple Gothic temple to become a baroque gem. The artists who worked here include Karel J. Hiernle, whose works still enrich the interior.
And now, something that may surprise you: do you know that the church of St. Vojtek was originally built as a two-ship temple? This gothic disposition, along with the polygonal conclusion of the priesthood, was rare at the time. And the massive clock tower that you might see around here was an integral part of the original complex. Imagine the noise that those old clocks must have spread around the monastery and the neighborhood!
The Church of Saint Vojtěv is not only a monument but a living witness to faith, art and human work. Every stone, every statue, and every stucco ornament here has a story. If you want to learn more, continue your Broumova survey - a city full of hidden treasures. May this monument excite you and inspire you to discover again.
Thank you for taking the time to explore this extraordinary memory. May her beauty continue to accompany you.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kostel svatého Vojtěcha (Broumov) open to the public?
Yes, the church is open to the public. The opening hours are 9: 00 to 5: 00.
How do I get to the place by car / public transport?
You can reach Broumova by bus or train from Náchoda. The bus stop is located near the church.
How much is the entrance fee and is it paid on the spot?
Payment is made at the register at the church.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, the tour is also suitable for children and seniors. The church has wide stairs, but there are also reserved places for people with disabilities.
How long does the tour take?
The church tour takes approximately 30-60 minutes. We recommend ordering a guide before visiting the church to help you understand the history and meaning of the monument.
What are the opening times and booking is required?
The opening hours are 9: 00 to 5: 00. Reservation is not necessary, but we recommend ordering it in advance, especially for larger groups.
What's interesting in the immediate vicinity?
In the immediate vicinity of the church you will find castle Broumov and castle Vrchlabí. We recommend visiting the local museum, which offers information about the history and culture of the region.
For kids
Imagine going back to the past to the city of Broumova in Bohemia. The city is like a dream: narrow streets, painted houses and behind them - a huge church of St. Vojtěv.
How did it look here? Who lived here? What happened here? In the 14th century Broumov was a small town full of craftsmen, farmers and merchants. They all had their houses near downtown. In the centre there was a large square with a brewery and fast (it was like a police station). And behind them... St. Vojtěv's church!
Businesses nearby
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Nearby
{'broumov': {'type': 'monastery', 'description': 'Benedict Monastery Broumov, founded in the 14th century, with rich history and related monuments, including a library with valuable manuscripts.'}, 'natural _ area': {'description': 'Church is located in the picturesque landscape of Broumov Highlands, with views of surrounding forests and hills. The nature reserve Broumov walls is nearby.'}
Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Thematic cruise route: Broumov - spiritual and natural treasures
1. St. Vojtěv Church * Type: * Pilgrimage Baroque Church. * Why visit? * Unique building with rich decoration, associated with the legend of the miraculous painting of the Virgin Mary Broumov. Its dominant tower and interior with valuable works of art attract lovers of history and architecture.
2. Benedict Monastery Broumov * Type: * Historical monastery with library. * Why visit? * Founded in the 14th century, the monastery stores rare manuscripts and archives. A library with thousands of volumes is a hidden treasure for researchers and lovers of old books.
3. Broumov walls (nature reserves) * Type: * Protected natural area. * Why visit? * The picturesque rock formations and beech forests offer peaceful walks with views of the surrounding mountains. Ideal for tourists looking for a combination of nature and spiritual peace.
* The route leads logically from the historical core (church and monastery) to the natural surroundings, preserving the authentic character of the region. *
Seasonal recommendations
Spring In the spring months, the church of St. Vojtěv in BroumovA is surrounded by a green dress, as the surrounding forests awaken to life and willows along the Broumian creek flourish with white boars. The morning sun, which breaks through the stained glass, creates a color game in the interior, while the outdoor area is lit with soft, golden light. The melting of snow, which reveals old stone steps and terraces, and the damp air that gives the church a light, fresh atmosphere, is also specific. Practically best to visit the memory in the first half of April, when the crowds are minimal and the weather is pleasant. Comfortable shoes are recommended because after the rains the paths can be slippery, and light but warm clothing - spring temperatures change rapidly. The best time is the afternoon when the sun reaches a suitable angle to photograph the facade details.
Summer In the summer months, especially in July and August, the church attracts not only its visitors, but also insects and birds, whose singing and insect ringing complements classical organ music. The warm sun draws sharp shadows on the stone walls, while in the shade of corridors and chapels there is pleasant coldness. The surrounding area is green and rich in flowering, but also moist, which can cause condensation on the windows and slight odour of moisture in the interior. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when fewer visitors and temperatures are more pleasant. Light, breathable clothes and a sun hat are recommended because the shade around the church is not sufficient everywhere. In the main summer season it is worth booking time for a tour, because in the noon hours it may be hot inside the church.
Autumn Autumn brings to Broumova rich palette of colors, where the leafy trees around the church turn into red, yellow and brown shades that are reflected in the church windows and create a magical atmosphere. Cold, bright days illuminate the interior of the church so that it seems as if the colours are even deeper. The air is clean and cold, which gives the visit a sense of calm and reflection. Specific is also the period before St. Catherine's Day (November 25), when there are smaller meetings and exhibitions of local artists around the church. Practically, it is best to visit a monument in September or October when the crowds are smaller than in summer and the weather is still stable. It is recommended to warm but not too heavy clothing because temperatures fall and the winds from the Jeseníks can be steep. The best time is the afternoon when the sun reaches a suitable angle for photography and the interior of the church is lit with natural light.
Winter Winter Broumov with St. Vojtěv Church offers a unique atmosphere where the white snow cover is reflected on the stone walls and roof of the church, while frost creates ice patterns on the stained glass. The interior is warm, but the outdoor area is mysterious, especially at sunset, when the church is surrounded by blue reflection. In advent time, candles and Christmas decorations are lit up around the church, which provide the place with Christmas magic. Practically, it is best to visit a monument in December when the snow cover is probably, but also to realize that opening hours may be shorter and some parts of the church may be closed. It is recommended to warm but comfortable clothing, including gloves and caps, because temperatures often fall below freezing. The best time is the afternoon when the light is softer and the crowds are smaller, and it is also worth visiting the church before Christmas when the atmosphere is most magical.
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
Fotografie: Daniel Baránek / 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.
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