Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Kłodzko

The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Kłodzko is one of the most valuable Gothic monuments in Lower Silesia, located in the Old Town, near the Gothic bridge. The church impresses with its soaring silhouette, rich interior, and history dating back to the Middle Ages. In 1562, the church was taken over by the Jesuits, who opposed the Reformation and significantly rebuilt the structure. With the help of the Czech architect Carlo Lurago, a massive stone three-aisled basilica was created, with three apses, two towers, chapels, a sacristy, and stair turrets. The main nave has a net vault, while the side aisles with galleries have cross-ribbed vaults. In the main altar, there is a Gothic figure of the Madonna with Child from 1450, and in front of it, a kneeling sculpture of Arnest of Pardubice, the first Archbishop of Prague, who was born in Kłodzko. This sculpture was made by Jan Janda, a student of Christian D. Rauch. The pulpit, organ case, and confessionals are works by Michael Klahr the Elder, an artist from the Kłodzko region, known for his highly individual style. The organ case is adorned with the so-called angelic orchestra – a group of saints, angels, and other figures making music and singing. Near the church, the Black Gate, a relic of the former cemetery, has been preserved. Admission is free, and a visit usually takes 1 to 3 hours. The church can be reached via national roads No. 8 or 33; parking and marked pedestrian paths are available nearby.