Church of Saint James in Kutná Hora

The Church of Saint James in Kutná Hora, known locally as Kostel svatého Jakuba Staršího v Kutné Hoře, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a beacon of historical significance in the Czech Republic. Dominating the skyline of Kutná Hora, this majestic church has a rich history that dates back to the early 14th century, captivating visitors with its timeless beauty and intriguing past.

The Beginnings of the Church of Saint James

Construction of the Church of Saint James began in the early 14th century, during a period of burgeoning prosperity for the town of Kutná Hora. Originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the church was later rededicated to Saint James the Greater. The project was supported by the local patrician families and the influential mintmasters of the town, with notable sponsors including Ruthard and Bořita of Košice. The church initially served as a filial church of the Malín parish, which was under the control of the Cistercian monastery in Sedlec. However, in 1410, a papal bull issued by Pope John XXIII established Kutná Hora as an independent parish, ending its subordination to the Sedlec monastery.

Architectural Marvels and Unique Features

The Church of Saint James is a hall church, characterized by its three naves of equal height, each soaring to 19 meters. The presbytery, completed by 1350, is elongated and ends with a polygonal apse. One of the church's most distinctive features is its twin towers on the western facade. The northern tower, reaching a height of 80 meters, is particularly striking with its baroque onion dome. Interestingly, the southern tower was never completed, likely due to unstable ground conditions, and stands at roughly half the height of its northern counterpart.

The church's design is marked by its efficient use of space, employing compact buttresses rather than the more extensive flying buttresses seen in other Gothic structures like the Church of Saint Barbara in Kutná Hora. The intricate tracery of the western window, crafted by the Parler workshop, adds a touch of elegance to the facade.

Historical Significance and Restorations

Throughout its history, the Church of Saint James has played a pivotal role in the religious and social life of Kutná Hora. It was a key site for religious negotiations in the 15th century and served as a hub for the Utraquist Church until 1620, when it was returned to the Catholic Church. The church has undergone numerous restorations over the centuries, including significant repairs to the roof in 1650 and again in the 19th century using slate. The northern tower, in particular, required frequent repairs due to lightning strikes, with major restorations in 1602 and 1698.

The Bells of Saint James

The church's bell tower houses several notable bells, including the famous Vorel bell, cast by Prokop Ptáček in 1478. Over the centuries, the Vorel bell was recast multiple times, with the final version cast in 1880 before being requisitioned during World War II. In 2017, a new bell named Jakub Maria was installed, crafted by bellmaker Petr Rudolf Manoušek and adorned with reliefs by sculptor Jaroslav Hylas. The bell was funded by a public collection, demonstrating the community's dedication to preserving their cultural heritage.

Interior Splendors

Stepping inside the Church of Saint James, visitors are greeted by a blend of Gothic and Baroque elements. The church's interior is dominated by its Gothic ribbed vaults, while much of the furnishings are Baroque. The pews in the presbytery, crafted by the woodcarver Jiří from Elkuš in 1484, were restored in the 19th century. The church also houses a tin baptismal font created by the metal caster Ondřej Ptáček and two Baroque confessionals acquired from the dissolved Sedlec monastery in 1802.

The main altar, a masterpiece of high Baroque art, was created between 1677 and 1678 by the sculptor Kašpar Eigler, based on a design by Jakub Riedl. The altar features a painting by F. X. Palko and an oval painting of the Holy Trinity by Petr Brandl. Flanking the altar are statues of the apostles crafted by Prague sculptor David Schultner. The church's interior is further adorned with works by renowned artists such as Hanuš Elfeldar, F. X. Palko, and Karel Škréta.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 1995, the Church of Saint James, along with other historic sites in Kutná Hora, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition underscores the church's architectural and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike.

Whether you're drawn by its towering Gothic architecture, intrigued by its storied past, or simply looking to experience the serene beauty of this historical gem, the Church of Saint James in Kutná Hora offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the Czech Republic. A visit to this remarkable church is sure to leave a lasting impression, inviting you to explore the depths of its history and the splendor of its artistry.