Imagine standing here in Prague, gazing at the Church of Saints Philip and James. It is a place of worship that echoes with history. But did you know the story behind its stones and the saints it honors?
The Church of Saints Philip and James we see today is not the first to stand on this ground. Once upon a time, in Smíchov at Arbesovo Square, stood a Romanesque church. It was built in the 12th century. In 1749, it was transformed with a baroque touch. Its facade boasted a gable and a niche. Sculptures of Jesus Christ adorned it. A belfry stood proudly beside it.
But time marches on. The last mass echoed within its walls on October 12th, 1891. Demolition began just two weeks later. The parish moved to the newly built Church of St. Wenceslas.
The new Church of Saints Philip and James found its home at Malvazinky Cemetery. This cemetery was founded in 1876 by architect Anthony Barvitius. It replaced a vineyard owned by Tomas Malvazy in the 17th century.
The foundation stone for this new pseudo-Romanesque church was laid on September 13th, 1894. Adolf Duchoň designed the church. Materials from the old church were incorporated into the new structure. The baroque statue of the Messiah and sculptures by Ferdinand Maxmilián Brokoff found a new home here. Bishop Ferdinand Kalousek consecrated the church on May 28th, 1896.
Notice the tall steeple. It dominates the church’s facade. Built of brick and stone, it mirrors the church’s construction. Semicircular windows adorn the steeple. A tall spire sits atop the roof with pinnacles at each corner. Each pinnacle is topped with a finial.
The church is dedicated to two saints. Saint Philip was one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. He was from Bethsaida in Galilee. Tradition says he was married and had daughters. The Gospel of John tells stories of Philip. Jesus called him to follow. Philip brought Nathanael to Jesus.
Saint Philip is often depicted with a cross. Sometimes he carries a staff with a patriarchal cross. He may hold a stone, book, or scroll. Sometimes he carries a basket of bread. Legend says he preached in Scythia for twenty years. He is said to have performed miracles. He died a martyr’s death in Hierapolis.
Saint James, the Less, is also honored here. The church celebrates them together. Their feast day was originally May 1st. It commemorated the dedication of the Basilica of the Twelve Apostles in Rome. Now it is celebrated on May 3rd.
The Church of Saints Philip and James stands as a testament to faith. It shows resilience and rebirth. It echoes with stories of saints and the people who built it. Take a moment to appreciate the history within these walls.