Loreto Convent

The Loreto, located in the Hradčany district of Prague, is a baroque complex of great historical and religious importance, as well as one of the most famous pilgrimage destinations in the city. Its foundation dates back to 1626, when the Bohemian noblewoman Benigna Kateřina of Lobkowicz commissioned the construction of the site to promote the worship of the Holy House, a replica of the house of the Virgin Mary. The project was entrusted to the Italian architect Giovanni Orsi, who completed the construction in 1631. At the center of the complex is the Holy House, a small building adorned with reliefs depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin. Legend has it that the original house of Mary in Nazareth was miraculously transported by angels to Italy, to Loreto, to save it from Saracen raids. This story inspired numerous replicas throughout Europe, including the one in Prague. Surrounding the Holy House is a cloister with corner chapels, all richly decorated. Between 1710 and 1717, the Baroque architect Kryštof Dientzenhofer, assisted by his son Kilián Ignác, added a second floor to the cloister and completed the main facade. The Baroque facade, with its characteristic ornate pediment, is one of the most recognizable elements of the complex. One of the most fascinating aspects of Loreto is the carillon located in the clock tower, installed in 1695 by Peter Neumann. This carillon, composed of 27 bells, plays a Marian hymn every hour, creating a suggestive atmosphere that envelops the entire complex. The sound of the carillon has become one of the acoustic symbols of Prague, attracting pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. The main church of the complex is the Church of the Nativity of the Lord, built in 1734-1737 according to the design of Jan Jiří Aichbauer. The interior of the church is a Rococo masterpiece, with frescoes by Jan Adam Schöpf and Václav Vavřinec Reiner decorating the vault, depicting scenes such as the Nativity and the Adoration of the Magi. The sculptural decorations, created by Matthias Schönherr and Michal Jan Brüderle, further enrich the sacred environment. In addition to its architectural beauty, Loreto is famous for its treasure, one of the most precious in the Czech Republic. Among the most famous pieces is the “Sun of Prague,” an extraordinary monstrance from the 17th century studded with 6,222 diamonds, made in Vienna. The treasure also includes numerous other liturgical and votive objects of invaluable historical and artistic value. The management of Loreto is entrusted to the Capuchin Friars, who continue to care for the complex and support its spiritual and cultural mission. Their presence ensures that Loreto remains a place of devotion and reflection, as well as a living testimony to the religious history of Prague.