Church of Saint Anthony of Padua, Rural chapel in Okřešice, Czech Republic

The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua is a place of worship in the village of Okřešice with typical features of rural Czech church architecture. The building has a straightforward structure with a bell tower and an interior space designed to accommodate the parish community.

A wooden cross stood on the village square from 1863, and a brick chapel with a bell tower was consecrated beside it in 1882. That chapel proved too small, so on the initiative of the Mareš family and with contributions from other villagers it was demolished in 1910 and a larger chapel was begun. Built with the cooperation of all the citizens, it was solemnly opened and consecrated on 6 November 1910.

The chapel is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, and its main altar holds a statue of him beside the tabernacle. The painted Stations of the Cross and the pulpit, both dated 1913, are the interior's other decorated elements. The bells in the tower carry names: Maria was hung after the tower was finished, and a third bell followed in 1969.

Access to the chapel is easiest during Sunday services and religious ceremonies when the community gathers. Visitors should check service times in advance to plan a suitable time for a visit.

The tower holds three bells: one from the 1882 chapel, a new bell named Maria hung after the tower was finished, and a third added in 1969. The painted Stations of the Cross and the pulpit both date from 1913.