Archbishop Jan of Jenštejn: Politics, Liturgy, Devotion and Art around 1400

The international, interdisciplinary conference Archbishop Jan of Jenštejn: Politics, Liturgy, Devotion and Art around 1400, organized by the Czech Historical Institute in Rome, the Institute of History of the Czech Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Philosophy of the Czech Academy of Sciences – Centre for Medieval Studies, the Embassy of the Czech Republic to the Holy See, the Pontifical Nepomucenum College and the University of Ostrava, will take place from 28 to 30 May 2026 in the Pontifical College Nepomucenum (Via Concordia 1, Rome).

Programme

Jan of Jenštejn ranks among the most prominent figures to have occupied the Prague archiepiscopal see (1379–1396). Educated at four European universities, he emerged not only as a distinguished ecclesiastical dignitary but also as an intellectual and a prolific literary author. In addition to his spiritual role, he was actively engaged in political life, serving, among other positions, as Chancellor to King Wenceslas IV of Bohemia and the Romans, and as a papal legate. His career was profoundly shaped by the turbulent circumstances of the early phase of the Papal Schism (from 1378 onward), which he both keenly reflected upon and experienced; his allegiance to the Roman obedience simultaneously contributed to the deepening of social and political divisions within the Bohemian milieu. The final stage of his career and life was significantly marked by his conflict with King Wenceslas IV, with tragic consequences.

The aim of the international conference is to present Jan of Jenštejn in the full breadth of his activities, encompassing his roles as Archbishop of Prague and a major political actor, as well as a royal advisor, man of letters, and a charismatic and deeply devout individual. Particular attention will be devoted to his contribution to the establishment of the Feast of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary within the Western Church, as well as to the broader context of his intellectual and spiritual endeavors.

Organizing Committee:
Hana Vlhová-Wörner, Tomáš Černušák, Eva Doležalová, Pavel Soukup

Supported by the Strategy AV21 programme of the Czech Academy of Sciences.
Held under the auspices of the Czech Academy of Sciences, the Embassy of the Czech Republic to the Holy See, and the Pontificio Comitato di Scienze Storiche.