Historic discovery at the altar of the parish church

A historical discovery has been made during the restoration of the side altar in the parish church of the Assumption of Mary in Spodnja Idrija. The find includes a handwritten document dated 1857, which was discovered among the materials stored within the altar. This artifact, described as a “birth certificate” of sorts, offers insight into the craftsmanship and history of the structure, which dates back over 800 years. The church, known locally as the shrine of the Assumption of Mary or "Marija na Skalci," has long been a central part of community life in the village of Spodnja Idrija, located along the Idrijca Valley. Its presence in the region's collective memory is deeply rooted, with its origins traced back to 1156, when it was first mentioned in documents. The recent restoration efforts have uncovered new layers of its past, revealing previously unknown details about its construction and maintenance. During the restoration of the side altar dedicated to Saint John of Nepomuk, workers uncovered two sealed documents placed inside the altar as time capsules. One of these documents is written in Slovenian and provides information about the master craftsmen who built the altar. According to reports from the parish, the artisans were residents of Gorenje Jezero and Nova Oselica. The document, bearing a seal, was found tucked into a compartment at the top of the altar. Equally intriguing is another document, written in old German script, which describes the work of a carver responsible for creating the altar’s statues. This text reveals that the craftsman had recently completed his military service, having served under the famous Austrian General Josef Radetzky. It appears he personally inserted this note into the altar’s interior, where it remained undisturbed for nearly 170 years before being rediscovered. The discovery has sparked excitement among local historians and residents, particularly because it challenges previous assumptions about the altar’s origin. Initially, there was speculation that the altar was the work of Jurij Tavčar, referred to as the “Idrijski” master. However, the newly uncovered documents suggest otherwise, prompting a reassessment of the altar’s artistic and historical significance. The documents will be made public in the days leading up to the feast day of the Assumption of Mary, celebrated on August 15th. This timing aligns with the traditional celebration of the church, adding a layer of cultural and historical importance to the unveiling. The parish has expressed great satisfaction with the findings, emphasizing their value in preserving and understanding the region’s heritage. Spodnja Idrija, once mentioned in historical records as early as 1156, continues to reveal its rich past through such discoveries. The recent unearthing of these artifacts underscores the enduring legacy of the area’s religious and cultural traditions, offering a tangible link to centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. As the documents become available to the public, they promise to deepen appreciation for the complex history embedded within the walls of this historic church.