book design

This lavishly produced monograph on the Piarist Church of the Finding of the Holy Cross in Litomyšl is the first comprehensive publication dedicated to this architectural gem. The book brings together more than 1,200 photographs across nearly 600 pages, offering a unique testament to the history of the building, the fate of its interior and the people connected with the church.

About the Project

This substantial volume explores in depth the history of the building, its interior furnishings and ownership relationships in the 20th and 21st centuries, with particular emphasis on the extensive restoration works carried out between 2011 and 2015. It presents new findings from archaeological and conservation surveys, documents historical graffiti, works of art and liturgical objects, and includes previously unknown visual material uncovered through archival research. The publication is the result of nearly a decade of scholarly work by its author.

The layout and structure of this extensive publication were designed with clarity and ease of navigation in mind. Each chapter opens with a standalone introduction, allowing readers to quickly orientate themselves within the text. The graphic design encompassed typeface selection, typesetting and the treatment of visual material, including sensitive adjustments to photographs. Particular attention was paid to bookbinding details — especially the choice of headband and other typographic elements that support the book's calm, focused character. The cover design underscores the exclusivity of the work through embossing and metallic ink. The result is a publication that, despite its considerable scale, remains reader-friendly, visually serene and a dignified reflection of the cultural value of this heritage site. The book was printed by HRG tiskárna.



The finished publication was photographed, with kind permission, in the authentic setting of the Piarist church.

Veronika Cinková — author of the publication and cover concept

Darina Fiala — book layout and typesetting

Dita Malá — typesetting and photo retouching

Photo © Adéla Friesová, 2025

The publication invites a quiet encounter with the stillness, memory and layers of time of an extraordinary place.

More Projects