kostel svatých Petra a Pavla (Kojice) Church

The Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Kojice, located on the top of the Pardubice region, is a Romanesque sacral building with a rich history. This monument includes the main boat with apsid and tower and has preserved Romanesque wall paintings. It is one of the oldest masonry buildings in the region, which makes it a unique historical proof of building art in the late 12th century.

Built from regular sandstone blocks, the church testifies to the skills of the builders at the time. At the time of its creation, there was a transition from Romanesque to Gothic artistic style in Central Europe, which could also affect the creation of such sacral structures. Feudalism developed in Bohemia and the power of Czech princes increased.

Architecturally, the church is oriented by the construction of a rectangular plan with a presbytery finished with an apsid. Apsida is decorated with lizens, which adds moving details to the facade. Originally single boat, after the extension has the main boat (original) and side boat (added). The church tower is prismatic with onion fighting from the Baroque era. The interior is based on the original Romanesque layout, which has been modified over centuries. On the north wall of the main ship is the exposed part of the Romanesque fresco.

The patronage to the church was Držislav z Kojic, then cisterciácký klášter v Sedlci since 1343, Vaněk z Miletínka and since 1491 Vilém z Pernštejna. In 1560, the patronage went to the Imperial Chamber. In 1964, the church was included in the Central List of Real-Estate Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic, highlighting its historical and cultural value. In 1825 he burned down during a fire in Kojice, while the bells were damaged. The new bells were shells in Hradec Králové and festively hung in 1834.

During the 18th century, the church was modified in Baroque style, which included the extension of the southern side boat with sacristy and bleachers. In the years 1926-1927, the total adjustment was made under the auspices of the Monument Office, which included the change of ceiling, the installation of a new floor and wooden railing. After 1938 the church had again three bells, but during World War II they were collected for war use.

Today the church is without bells and does not serve liturgical purposes. However, there are events on significant days and holidays such as choir performances or concerts. The church has been securely stored in Kojice since 2023.

The Church of Saint Peter and Paul is an important historical place that reminds us of the rich history of the region. His architecture and history make him an interesting target for visitors who are interested in history and art. Visiting this church means not only seeing a beautiful Romanesque building, but also feeling connected to the past of the Kojice region.