All Saints church

All Saints Church (Kostel Všech svatých) in Uhříněves is a Baroque parish church standing in Prague 22, on the eastern edge of the Czech capital. The current building was constructed between 1740 and 1743 to a design by Tomáš Budil, a builder from nearby Říčany, replacing an earlier, smaller church on the same site. Written references to a church at this location go back to the 14th century, making the Uhříněves parish one of the older religious foundations around Prague.

What is the history behind the church?

The church's story is tied closely to the religious upheavals of Czech history. Following the Hussite Wars, Uhříněves came under Utraquist influence. That changed in 1624, when Prince Karel of Liechtenstein purchased the estate, and the parish returned to Roman Catholic administration. More than a century later, in the mid-18th century, the decision was made to erect a new, permanent Baroque church, which was consecrated in 1743.

What can visitors see inside?

The interior holds several notable works of sacred art. The main altar and pulpit were carved by woodcarver František Ferdinand Ublacker in 1752. The painting of All Saints comes from the workshop of Jan Petr Molitor the Elder, who also painted the fresco on the presbytery vault depicting the Holy Trinity together with the glorification of the Virgin Mary. Adjoining the church is a Baroque Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre, located on the north side near the sacristy.

What is housed in the church tower?

Two bells hang in the tower and are worth noting. The larger one, dedicated to St. Wenceslas and St. Ludmila, was cast in 1552 by the renowned bell founder Tomáš Jaroš, whose work is still regarded as among the finest examples of Czech bell casting from that era. The smaller bell, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, dates from 1685, though its maker remains unknown. Both bells have survived for centuries and stand as evidence of religious continuity at this site that predates the current church building by far.

Why is the church a protected monument?

Kostel Všech svatých is listed as a protected cultural monument, reflecting its historical and artistic value both for Uhříněves itself and for the wider religious heritage of Prague. The Baroque structure remains the focal point of the local parish community, which continues to hold regular services there.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the church located? The church stands in the Uhříněves district, part of the Prague 22 municipal district, in the eastern part of Prague.

In what architectural style was the church built? It is a Baroque building, constructed between 1740 and 1743 on the site of an earlier, smaller church.

How old is worship at this site? While the current building dates from the 18th century, the earliest written references to a church here go back to the 14th century.

What are the most valuable features inside? The main altar and pulpit by František Ferdinand Ublacker, the painting and fresco from the workshop of Jan Petr Molitor the Elder, and the historic 1552 bell cast by Tomáš Jaroš.

Is the church still in active religious use? Yes, it is an active parish church of the Roman Catholic community of Prague-Uhříněves.