“A gilded cross, a crescent moon, and an eight-pointed star.” Those are the unusual companions you’ll find atop the Rotunda of the Finding of the Holy Cross, also known as Nalezeného svatého Kříže. Right before you, nestled amongst the modern buildings, stands a survivor. The Rotunda of the Finding of the Holy Cross is the oldest Romanesque rotunda in Prague. Picture this: the year is 1365. The rotunda, already a venerable place of worship, is mentioned in writing for the first time. But its story begins even earlier, at the end of the 11th century. Legend has it that the rotunda stands on the site of a former pond. A young girl, punished for converting to Christianity, was thrown into its depths. Then, a tempest raged, and when it subsided, a cross miraculously appeared above the water. This event, seen as a divine sign, led to the construction of the Nalezeného svatého Kříže. The very name, “Finding of the Holy Cross,” echoes this legendary origin. Over the centuries, Nalezeného svatého Kříže served as a parish church, a Dominican possession, even a warehouse during a period of secular use. It faced the threat of demolition in 1860, but thankfully, it was saved by art enthusiasts who recognized its historical value. Today, Nalezeného svatého Kříže stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the ebb and flow of history. It serves as a parish church for the Old Catholic Church, its ancient walls resonating with hymns once more. As you leave the Nalezeného svatého Kříže, remember this: its survival, against all odds, reminds us that even in a rapidly changing world, the echoes of the past can still be heard.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to