St George's Church in Luková (Ghost Church)

St George's Church in Luková, known as the Ghost Church, is one of the most unusual sacred monuments in western Bohemia. It stands in the largely deserted village of Luková near Manětín, on an old cemetery site and in a striking position above the surrounding landscape. From outside it looks like a decaying rural church, but inside it became famous for dozens of white figures sitting in the pews.

The church has Gothic origins, and its core dates to the mid-14th century. Over the centuries it went through fires, alterations and decline. In 1796 it was hit by a destructive fire, followed by rebuilding around 1800. In the 20th century the church was repeatedly looted and fell into disrepair, although it is a protected cultural monument. Little of the original furnishings survived, but the place retains a powerful atmosphere.

Ghosts in the Pews

The church became a visitor destination in its current form in 2012, when Jakub Hadrava, then a student at the Faculty of Design and Art of the University of West Bohemia, installed white plaster figures inside. They sit or stand in the pews with bowed heads, evoking former worshippers. The installation was meant to draw attention to the endangered church and help raise money for repairs. It succeeded: visitors began coming from Czechia and abroad, and voluntary donations continue to support the rescue of the monument.

A visit is not a standard guided tour with interpretation, but rather a short and very strong encounter with a place where Sudeten history, abandoned sacred architecture and contemporary art meet. The interior has a quiet, reverent mood, so it is best to behave considerately and remember that this is not an attraction detached from its context, but a real church and a monument under restoration.

Practical Information

The church is open from April to the end of October every Saturday from 13:00 to 16:00. In winter the church is closed. Special events, such as services or Night of Churches, are announced on the church website and Facebook page. Admission is by voluntary donation and supports the restoration.

Contacts and Directions

• Website: lukova-kostel.cz
• Address: Luková, 331 62 Manětín
• GPS: 50.016474, 13.160622
• E-mail: farnostmanetin@gmail.com
• Opening hours: April-October Saturday 13:00-16:00, closed in winter