“Imagine standing here in 1680”. The air is thick with the scent of mortar and the sounds of construction. We are standing before the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi. It is not yet complete.
The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi stands proudly near the Charles Bridge. Its magnificent dome is a dominant feature of Prague’s skyline. This early Baroque church replaced a Gothic church from the 1250s. The ground level rose significantly. The present-day Church of Saint Francis of Assisi was built on top of the original.
Jean-Baptiste Mathey designed the church. Gaudenzio Casanova and Domenico Canevalle were the builders. The church’s early Baroque facade dates back to 1679-1685. The church served as an inspiration for many other buildings. One example is the Church of Saint Nicholas in the Lesser Town.
The Knights of the Cross with the Red Star have been associated with the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi since 1252. It remains the seat of the Order. The church was consecrated in 1688 by Archbishop Jan Bedřich of Valdštejn.
Inside the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, pure Baroque beauty awaits. A fresco of the Last Judgment dominates the interior. Václav Vavřinec Reiner painted it on the dome.
The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi also boasts rare Baroque organs. Abraham Starck built them in 1702. These are the second oldest organs in Prague. Josef Seger played here. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonín Dvořák also played this magnificent instrument.
Today, the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi continues its musical tradition. Chamber organ concerts are often held. The concerts feature compositions from Baroque and classical masters. Solo instruments and vocals complement the rich sound of the organs. Soloists from Czech opera houses and orchestras perform here. Professors from the Academy of Music Arts and the Prague Conservatory also participate.
The interior of the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi features Slivenec marble. Frescoes by V.V. Reiner decorate the walls and ceilings. J.K. Liška painted the main altar. It depicts the stigmatization of Saint Francis. Many consider it to be his most valuable work.
The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi has a rich history. It has beautiful artwork and excellent music. It stands as a testament to Prague’s cultural heritage.