Have you ever noticed how some buildings seem to whisper stories? The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua, right here in Prague, is one of those places. It stands tall and proud, a beacon of faith on Strossmayer Square. This beautiful Neo-Gothic church was a dream come true for the people of Holešovice, who had been longing for a larger place of worship. The old church of Saint Clement, just a stone’s throw away, simply couldn’t accommodate the growing community anymore. That’s why the project to build this church was started, back in 1887, a full decade before the foundation stone was laid. Construction took six years, but it was a labor of love. The architect, František Mikš, was determined to create something truly special. He even modeled the church’s soaring towers after those of the ancient church of Our Lady before Týn, one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, you’ll find a beautiful altar, a massive pipe organ, and a stunning stained-glass window. But the real gem of this church is hidden in its towers. One houses a bell cast in 1572 by the legendary bell-founder Brikcí of Cimperk. The other tower holds a copy of the American Liberty Bell, a gift from President Woodrow Wilson to T.G. Masaryk in 1918, celebrating the founding of Czechoslovakia. So, don’t just gaze at the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua from afar. Step inside and let its history and beauty embrace you. You’ll be glad you did.
Dolní Břežany
Could this grand Renaissance castle have once been a humble medieval fortress? It’s true! This is Dolní Břežany, dominated by