Pauline Monastery, Religious building complex in Old Town, Prague, Czech Republic
Pauline Monastery sits on the north side of Old Town Square and consists of connected buildings forming one large complex. The facade combines earlier Romanesque foundations with later Baroque additions, creating a layered structure that still dominates this corner of the square.
The monastery started in 1626 when the Pauline order took over St. Salvator church after it was taken from German Lutherans. This happened after the Battle of White Mountain, a turning point that changed the religious landscape of Bohemia.
The name comes from the Pauline order, a religious community that lived here according to strict principles of simplicity. Walking around the building today, you can notice how these values shaped the architectural choices and decorative elements.
The complex sits directly on Old Town Square and is easy to reach from multiple directions. Keep in mind that only the exterior is freely accessible, as it remains an active religious site and protected monument.
The facade displays carved statues of saints important to the Pauline faith, including figures rarely seen on other religious buildings in Prague. These sculptures give the complex a distinct character that sets it apart in the square.
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