Prague Loreto
Tucked away in the shadow of Prague Castle, the Loreta Monastery and Treasury dates back nearly 500 years and has a rich and remarkable heritage. Still an active convent to this day, the monastery’s main attractions include its replica of the Virgin Mary’s home, the Santa Casa, as well as its treasury, which is home to a vessel stunningly decorated with 6,222 diamonds.
Visitors are allowed into only four parts of the monastery. Among them is the Santa Casa, more about which you can learn by grabbing an info booklet available at the entrance, which will teach you all about its historic importance to Christian pilgrims from all over the continent. Built within the complex’s central courtyard, it is an ornate spot where religious services are held at weekends.
Beside the courtyard, you can walk through a beautifully decorated arcade as well as its adjoining chapels. Elsewhere, you’ll find the ornate Church of the Nativity of Our Lord. On the first floor, you’ll find the treasury, another popular highlight which still holds valuable religious artefacts despite the years of theft it has suffered. You can see many of these artefacts and marvel at their beauty – especially the glittering spectacle of the popular diamond-studded vessel.
On the hour, you’ll get to hear the 30 bells inside the tower chiming in sequence to produce one of several different melodies. At the monastery, you can also enjoy a programme of music on offer.
Situated within the Lesser Town to the west of Prague Castle, the Loreta Monastery and Treasury is easily reached by tram or metro, or is within walking distance of Charles Bridge. There is an entrance fee to get in, and if you want to take photographs, you’ll have to pay extra. The monastery is open to visitors every day.