THE PRIDE OF KOMARNO

Did you know that there are only three places in the world where a magic five-corner star can be found? One of them is in Istanbul; second one is in Rome and the third one, where else? Yes in Komarno. You can see it in the Greek-Catholic church that was built in 1751-1754 in Baroque style by Serb refugees who were escaping from invading Turks in 16th and 17th century. They built it in the place of an old wooden church to the present state. In the 19th century there were only few Serbs families living in Komarno and the church started to loose it's importance. Even in the period between the two World wars there was almost no need for keeping a priest. He served only during weddings and funerals. That is why the church later on became a museum where you can find original Balkan art. This church doesn’t seem to be very large, however it’s content is really something special. 

You can see the marvelous Iconostas made with real gold that catches each visitor’s attention. Next, you would for sure admire the great work of Franz Xaver Seeqen (1724-1780) who created the beautiful woodcarvings. 

They show the pictures of St. Romuald's life, which was the founder of Kamaldul order. If you are interested in mystical legends as I am, the stone star that can be found in the middle of the church would attracted you. 

I was told, if someone is standing on the star in relaxing and calm state he or she can make a wish and it will come true in a year. I took it as a joke, but I tried it. I felt some vibrations on my fingertips and even on my whole body that was slightly moving from left to right. I felt as if my body was fulfilled with bio energy. I muss confess it was a great feeling. Is it only a legend that this place is magic? Who knows! The fact is that this church exists and it is located in Komarno, so if you are interested in Balkan art, mystical legends, great Iconostas, now you know where to find them.

© Claudia Veghova

GO TO KOMARNO

GO TO STONE VIRGIN OF KOMARNO

GO BACK TO TOWNS AND VILLAGES

Published in the Slovak Heritage Live newsletter Volume 5, No. 4, Winter 1997
Copyright © Vladimir Linder 1997 
3804 Yale Street, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada V5C 1P6
The above article and photographs may not be copied, reproduced, republished, or redistributed by any means including electronic, without the express written permission of Vladimir Linder. All rights reserved.