Church of Saint Benedict, Baroque church in Prague, Czech Republic

The Church of Saint Benedict is a Baroque building in Prague with richly decorated interiors. It features complex architectural elements, detailed frescoes, and ornate altars characteristic of 17th-century religious structures.

Built as the parish church of Hradčany in the first half of the 14th century, it was first recorded in writing in 1353. It burned in the great fire of Hradčany and Malá Strana in 1541 and was repaired by the stonemasons' guild, which set up its own altar there in 1542. Emperor Ferdinand II gave it to the Barnabites in 1627; their order was dissolved in 1786, and in 1792 Leopold II gave the buildings to the Barefoot Carmelite nuns.

The church displays Italian influences in its ornate altar designs and frescoes, which shaped the interior appearance that visitors see today. This artistic direction made the space a showcase for Baroque craftsmanship in Prague.

The church is open to visitors interested in viewing its architectural features and religious objects. It helps to check opening hours beforehand and allow time to examine the interior furnishings without rush.

The mummified body of Marie Elekta of Jesus, the monastery's first prioress, was displayed in a niche beside the main altar from 1812. When the monastery was dissolved in 1950, the nuns were forbidden to move her, and workers simply walled the niche up; she remained there until 2021.