About this place
The Franciscan monastery in Zásmuky is a monastic complex built around the Church of the Stigmata of St. Francis Seraphicus, raised in the last decade of the 17th century on the highest, southeastern edge of the small town of Zásmuky in the Kolín district. Set within an extensive garden, the whole complex is today protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic.
Who founded the monastery?
The founder was Adolf Vratislav, Count of Šternberk (1627–1703), the highest burgrave of the Kingdom of Bohemia and one of the most influential aristocrats of his era. It was through his initiative and funding that the Franciscan order gained a permanent seat in Zásmuky, intended to serve the friars for centuries to come.
When was it built, and who designed it?
Construction began in May 1691 under the direction of the Prague-based architect Andrea de Quadri, whose real name was Ondřej Červenka. The monastery church itself was finished by spring 1692, while the surrounding convent buildings were completed over the following years, between 1691 and 1694. Work moved quickly enough that one wing stood ready before 10 June 1692, the day the first six Franciscan friars moved into their new home.
What does the monastery look like?
The church's north-facing façade is divided into three richly decorated sections, with the central part given particular emphasis. Stone statues of saints connected to the Franciscan order stand in niches across the front, lending the building both a devotional and a representative character typical of late-17th-century baroque foundations funded by the high nobility.
What can be seen inside?
The oldest surviving piece of furnishing is the main altar, most likely consecrated around the same time as the church itself. It is decorated with finely carved woodwork attributed to an unnamed Prague workshop — a trace of the busy carving trade that supplied churches and monasteries across Bohemia at the time.
Where exactly does the monastery stand?
The complex occupies the highest point of Zásmuky, in the town's southeastern part, and is bordered by an extensive garden that remains an integral part of the site to this day.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded the Franciscan monastery in Zásmuky? It was founded by Adolf Vratislav, Count of Šternberk, the highest burgrave of the Kingdom of Bohemia, who lived from 1627 to 1703.
When was the monastery built? Construction started in May 1691, the church was completed by spring 1692, and the convent buildings were finished by 1694.
Who designed the monastery complex? The design came from the Prague architect Andrea de Quadri, also known by his Czech name, Ondřej Červenka.
When did the Franciscans move in? The first six friars settled into the finished wing before 10 June 1692.
Where in Zásmuky is the monastery located? It stands on the highest, southeastern edge of the town, surrounded by an extensive garden.
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