Old hospital and Church of Saint Elizabeth, Gothic church in Znojmo, Czech Republic
The Old Hospital and Church of Saint Elizabeth in Znojmo combines a church with a former medical facility in one building. The structure displays typical Gothic architecture with tall arches and detailed stonework throughout.
The church was built after 1470 for the Franciscans who settled in the Lower Suburb outside Znojmo's walls, and was first dedicated to St Bernardine; Gothic remains survive in its chancel. The friars left in 1534 for the former Minorite monastery, and King Ferdinand I ordered the city to buy the empty complex for a public purpose, making it a second municipal hospital. After the Swedish siege the church was repaired, rebuilt in Baroque style and rededicated to St Elizabeth; in 1786 it became a parish church.
The dedication to Saint Elizabeth was transferred here from the hospital church in the Upper Suburb at an unknown date, replacing the earlier patronage of Saint Bernard. In 1786 the church became a parish church and received pews and an organ from Saint Barbara's church in Klosterbruck, along with vestments from the monastery.
The building sits centrally in Znojmo and is easy to reach on foot. As an active religious site, opening hours may vary based on services, so it is wise to check ahead before visiting.
In 1762, 1805 and 1809 the church served as a provisions store for troops, and in 1786 a new town cemetery was laid out beside it. The organ and pews came from the old parish church of Saint Barbara in Klosterbruck after 1786.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 92,339 contributors worldwide.