Discover the beauty of the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady of Neratov

The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Neratov is a truly fascinating place with a deep history and a unique story of restoration. This place of pilgrimage has its roots in the second half of the 17th century, when it became an important spiritual centre thanks to the statue of the Virgin Mary and the spring that springs up near the church. However, the original church was soon no longer sufficient for the growing number of pilgrims and a new Baroque church was built on the hill between 1723 and 1733. The foundation stone of this new church was laid by the owner of the estate, Johann Karl of Nostitz-Rhieneck, on 14 August 1723 and consecrated on St. Bartholomew's Day on 24 August 1733.

The architect of this work remains unknown, although experts often attribute it to the circle around Giovanni Battista Alliprandi. The first builder of the church was Carl Antoni Reina, who tragically died in a fall from scaffolding, and the church was completed by James Andrew Carow.

In 1945, the church burned down after being hit by a Red Army shell. Ten years later, the local people tried to rebuild at least the roof of the church, but lack of funds frustrated their efforts. During the communist regime, it was decided to demolish the church, which ultimately did not happen because the money intended for demolition was used to transport the rococo staircase.

In 1992, the church was listed as a cultural monument, which allowed restoration to begin. On 15 August 1990, the first pilgrimage was held on the Feast of the Assumption, thus reviving a forgotten pilgrimage tradition. In 2003, the façade, towers and clock were restored, and a year later the interior masonry was rehabilitated and the rectory was repaired. The church received its famous glass roof in 2007 and the roof cornices were restored in 2008. Other repairs included the renewal of the paving, cure and entrance staircase.

Since 2013, the church has been gradually being fitted out with new liturgical furnishings. In 2018, the façade of the church was further renovated and restored to its original Baroque appearance. Unfortunately, a court case for the return of the rococo staircase was unsuccessful, so a new staircase had to be built. The Baroque towers were returned to the towers and the bells were rung again, all according to the original design.

The church is open all the time and to everyone, it never closes. This approach fulfils the words of parish priest Josef Suchar: "What are churches that are closed for." The Neratov Association, z. s., together with the Roman Catholic Church, is significantly involved in the restoration of the church. The joint efforts have succeeded in breathing new life into the place, which now once again serves as a spiritual and cultural centre, attracting pilgrims and visitors not only with its history, but also with its architectural gems and lively community.

The Church of the Assumption in Neratov has not only been given a second chance, but has also become a symbol of hope and renewal, a reminder of the power of faith and working together for a good cause. Anyone who visits this place can attest to its uniqueness and charm, which is truly unparalleled.