The Santini Křtiny church could be completed after centuries

Křtiny (Blanensko) - The Křtiny Church of the Name of the Virgin Mary, one of the most famous churches in Moravia, could be completed according to the original design by the renowned Baroque builder Jan Blažej Santini (1677 to 1723) after centuries. This massive structure was created in the shape of a Greek cross. On the sides, there were to be two open circular walkways - so-called ambulatories. However, during the construction 300 years ago, the Premonstratensians ran out of funds. Therefore, only one ambulatory was created. The parish is now considering having the remaining part completed. Křtiny dean Tomáš Prnka told ČTK today.
    "We have already obtained a plot of land near the church from the school forest enterprise in Křtiny, where the second ambulatory was supposed to stand. We could raise funds for its construction through a collection," said the clergyman. He did not dare to estimate how much money the project might require.
    The new ambulatory will connect to the Chapel of St. Joseph and will be an exact mirror image of the current one. In the summer, it provides refuge for pilgrims who regularly travel to Křtiny. Many also sleep there on warm nights. The ambulatory serves as a place for baptisms and social gatherings. It forms a side entrance to the church and also houses a unique computer-controlled carillon.
    The Křtiny church is one of Santini's unique works. The builder was one of the greatest and most original architects of High Central European Baroque. The church stands in a place where, according to legend, the first Slavic Christians were baptized by the apostles Cyril and Methodius.
    Santini designed a massive dome for the structure. The church is richly decorated with frescoes. In its crypt, there is an ossuary, which, according to some theories, also holds the remains of nobles executed in Prague after the Battle of White Mountain. Santini's church is frequently visited by both believers and tourists.