Saint Vitus Church - Pelhrimov - Czech Republic "It is the oldest church in Pelhrimov and the former parish church. It was apparently founded in the second or third quarter of the 13th century. It was originally built in the Gothic style which may still be noticed in the presbytery. During the Hussite wars, in 1422, Pelhřimov got into the hands of the Taborites, and Utraquist masses were served here. The rectory was transferred from St.Vitus Church to the Church of St. Bartholomew probably at the beginning of the second half of the 15th century. There used to be a cemetery around the church, and when the rectory had been moved to the Church of St. Bartholomew, it became for a long time a cemetery church. Around the year 1614 it was adapted in the Renaissance style, which resulted in the rebuilding of the frontal part of the nave and galleries. The exterior of the church was decorated with grafitti. It burned down in 1646. It gained its final Baroque appearance in 1739-1740. The church tower (the bell-tower and original cemetery gatehouse) was built in 1575 and one storey was added to it in this Baroque adaptation. The church has a three-nave disposition, oriented to the east, the presbytery is enclosed by five sides of an octagon. The vaulting and walls in the interior of the church show scenes from the life and martyr’s death of St. Vitus as well as allegories of Faith, Hope and Love. The early-Baroque main altar comes from the year 1687. The original tombstones come from the Renaissance period. Nowadays the church is used as an exhibition and concert hall." (http://www.pelhrimovsko.cz/index_an_.php) Thanks for viewing and comments.