Church of St. Maurice in Olomouc

St. Maurice Church in Olomouc towers over the historic city center and is one of its most important religious monuments. Its rich history dates back to the 13th century and is closely linked to the development of the Olomouc diocese.

 

The first written mention of St. Maurice Church dates back to 1257. Bishop Bruno of Schauenburg, founder of St. Wenceslas Cathedral in Olomouc, initiated the construction of the church as part of his plan to build a church complex in Olomouc. The original church was Romanesque and consisted of a three-nave basilica with a tower at the front.

 

In the 14th and 15th centuries, St. Maurice's Church underwent extensive Gothic reconstruction. The naves were lengthened, the vaults were raised, and chapels were added. At this stage, the church acquired its characteristic appearance with a massive tower and rich interior decoration. The church became an important center of religious life in Olomouc and also served as the seat of the Olomouc chapter.

 

In the 17th and 18th centuries, St. Maurice Church underwent Baroque modifications, which included the replacement of the interior furnishings and the reconstruction of the tower. In 1709, the church was severely damaged by a fire that destroyed much of the interior. This was followed by extensive reconstruction, which restored the church to its former beauty.

 

In the 19th century, St. Maurice Church underwent a purist renovation, which removed some of the Baroque elements. In the 20th century, extensive restoration work was carried out, which restored the church to its historical appearance. In 1995, the church was declared a national cultural monument.