The Church of Our Lady Victorious, also famous as the church of Our Lady victory, is one of the most visited churches in Prague by the pilgrims. Pilgrims from all around the world come to this church for paying homage to the infant Jesus of Prague. This church has the statue of baby Jesus in it which was originally bought from Spain.
History
The Church of our Lady Victorious construction started in 1611. It was made for the Czech Lutherans. Furthermore, this church was basically dedicated to the Holy Trinity. However, in 1620, the Protestants faiths were restricted because the Battle of the White Mountain was won by the Catholics. At this time, the church was handed over to the Carmelites Order. They changed the church’s dedication and named it to Lady Victorious. The dedication had a huge reason as the Catholics believed that the picture of Our Lady was the major reason due to which they won the battle. Thus, they dedicated the church to her name.
Some years later, in 1628, the statue of baby Jesus was bought in the church too. The statue belonged to St. Teresa of Avila. Duchess Maria Manrique de Lara bought the infant Jesus statue to Prague. She was the maid of honor of the Spanish princess who was the bride to the Czech’s King. The statue was a wedding gift basically but as Maria only had two sons and the statue was meant to be passed down from mother to daughter. Thus, it was handed over to the church.
Attractions
So, what exactly can you explore in the Church of our Lady Victorious?
The most famous and talked about feature of the church is the main altar. The altar was constructed to face the east but it was altered later and now, it faces the west. This opens up its entrance head towards the main street.
The Infant Jesus statue is on the right hand and is the major reason why people visit this church, especially pilgrims. In the center of the altar, the statue is placed for display, in a glass box. The most amazing feature of this statue is that it has been made up of wax. It is about 18 inches high and the right hand of the statue is raised, portraying blessing, while his left arm is holding an orb. The baby Jesus also wears a royal robe and a crown too. An interesting fact here is that baby Jesus’s robes are changed according to the holy events. On Christmas the robe is different than the other times of the year.
Other than that, you will see the statue of St. Joseph and Our Lady, around the altar. If you look at the top, you will see a dove which portrays the Holy Spirit. Also, there is a table beside the altar, which has „thank you“ notes for Baby Jesus, for the miracles that HE has performed for his people.
The main altar has been constructed like a victory arch. On top of the altar, a beautiful picture of the Nativity scene can be viewed. The original of this exact picture was said to have helped the Catholics in winning the battle.
Opening Hours
The church is open from 8.30 am to 7 pm on weekdays (including Saturday). However, on Sundays, the church opens at 8.30 am but closes at 8 pm.