Church of the Finding of the True Cross (Dubá)

The Church of the Finding of the True Cross is a late-Baroque church standing in Dubá, in the Česká Lípa District of the Liberec Region. The building rises close to the former manor of Nový Berštejn, with which it shares a direct historical link — it was the owner of that estate who financed its construction in the mid-18th century.

Who built this church, and why?

The founder of the church was Count František Karel Rudolf Sweerts-Šporck, who carried out extensive construction work after taking over the Nový Berštejn estate. The church, dedicated to the Finding of the True Cross, was built between 1744 and 1760 as part of that building programme, with its design attributed to the architect Anselmo Lurago, a figure associated with the Prague school of Baroque architecture. The dedication recalls the tradition of Saint Helena's discovery of the relics of the True Cross.

What does the building look like?

For a rural parish church, the structure is remarkably large: it measures 47 metres in length and 22 metres in width, with an interior height reaching 21 metres. The façade is flanked by two towers topped with lantern cupolas, giving the church a distinctive, symmetrical silhouette visible from a distance. The late-Baroque exterior is matched by an elaborate decorative programme inside.

What can visitors see inside?

The interior has preserved decoration dating from the time of construction. It includes paintings by Palka and Richter, along with woodwork crafted by Adámek and Chládek. A particular highlight is the organ, adorned with carved cherubs, one of the more ornate pieces of furnishing in the church. Together these elements form a coherent 18th-century interior, well preserved for a church of this scale.

What is the building's status today?

The church has been listed in the national register of cultural monuments since 1965, confirming its historical and architectural value. It continues to serve as the parish and deanery church of Dubá, serving worshippers from surrounding settlements, including those near the former Nový Berštejn estate.

Who should visit?

The church will appeal to travellers exploring the Českolipsko area and the Máchův kraj region who are looking for Baroque religious architecture off the main tourist routes. It is a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in the history of local noble families and 18th-century architecture, and its proximity to Nový Berštejn makes it easy to combine a visit to the church with a look at the former manor.

Frequently asked questions

When was the church in Dubá built? It was built between 1744 and 1760.

Who designed the church? The design is attributed to the architect Anselmo Lurago.

Who funded the construction? The founder was Count František Karel Rudolf Sweerts-Šporck, owner of the Nový Berštejn estate.

What are the church's dimensions? It is 47 metres long, 22 metres wide, with an interior height of 21 metres.

Is the church a protected monument? Yes, it has been listed in the register of cultural monuments since 1965.

What is worth seeing inside? Paintings by Palka and Richter, woodwork by Adámek and Chládek, and an organ decorated with carved cherubs.