Church of St. Ignatius, Prague

This church, nestled within Charles Square, stands as one of Prague's earliest Baroque edifices and forms an integral part of Europe's third-largest Jesuit Complex. Erected in 1687 on the grounds of former medieval residences, it was dedicated to Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the revered patron saint who founded the Jesuit Order. Despite the ascetic lifestyle embraced by the Jesuits, their churches, including this one, are renowned for their opulent adornments.

The interior is a striking pink and white marvel, bedecked with elaborate stucco work that exudes an air of exuberance. Notably, the pulpit stands as a testament to this ornate aesthetic, dripping with gold drapery, cherubic figures, and saintly motifs. Above the entrance, a statue of Saint Ignatius, encircled by a sunburst, stirred controversy upon its installation, as depicting anyone other than the Holy Trinity in such a manner was unprecedented. However, owing to the considerable influence wielded by the Jesuits during the 17th century, the statue was permitted to remain.