Church of Saint Wenceslaus in Pečky

The Church of Saint Wenceslaus in Pečky is a parish church in a small town in central Bohemia, not far from Kolín. Protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic, it stands as the architectural landmark of the town centre.

What is the history behind the church?

The church was built between 1906 and 1912 to a design by architect Bohumil Štěrba, with construction carried out by master builder Jan Sklenář from Kolín. The land for the building was donated by Prince John II of Liechtenstein, who also contributed financially to the project — without his support, the parish of Pečky might have waited far longer for a church of its own. The finished building was consecrated in 1913, shortly after the finishing works were completed. Nearly a century later, in 2001, the church underwent a major renovation covering repairs to the roof and facade, which is why it still looks well kept today.

What can you see inside and outside?

The church is a single-nave, Neo-Romanesque building oriented with its chancel facing north — an unusual choice that departs from the classic east-facing layout and is a small detail worth noting for anyone interested in sacred architecture. On the southern side rises a massive square tower topped with a pyramidal roof, and the main entrance is framed by an elaborately decorated portal. Inside, the centerpiece is the main altar from 1943, carrying statues of Saints Wenceslaus, Ludmila and Adalbert, carved by sculptor František Charvát from Kutná Hora. The western end of the nave holds an organ built in 1901 by organ builder Antonín Mölzer, and the tower houses a bell named Maria, cast in 1926.

How do you get to the church?

The church stands right in the centre of Pečky, on the town's main square, so it is easy to find on foot. Pečky lies on the railway line connecting Prague and Kolín, which makes the train the most convenient way to arrive — the church is only a few minutes' walk from the station. Visitors travelling by car will find parking near the town square, and the town itself makes a good short stop on a route between Prague and eastern Bohemia.

When is the best time to visit?

The Neo-Romanesque facade and tower photograph best in morning and early afternoon light. It is worth checking the parish notice board or website beforehand, since access to the interior outside of service times can be limited. Spring and summer are pleasant for exploring the surrounding town square on foot, while in autumn the church stands out nicely against the colourful trees around it.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed the Church of Saint Wenceslaus in Pečky? The design came from architect Bohumil Štěrba, and the church was built between 1906 and 1912 by master builder Jan Sklenář from Kolín.

When was the church consecrated? It was consecrated in 1913, shortly after construction was completed.

What makes the church's architecture distinctive? It is a single-nave Neo-Romanesque building with a striking square tower topped by a pyramidal roof, unusually placed on the southern side, and a chancel oriented towards the north.

Is the church officially protected as a heritage site? Yes, it is listed as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic, and its roof and facade were restored during a 2001 renovation.