Museum of the Infant Jesus of Prague

About

The Museum of the Infant Jesus of Prague is located within the Church of Our Lady Victorious in Prague’s Malá Strana district. This small museum is dedicated to the famous 16th-century wax-coated wooden statue of the Child Jesus, known as the Infant Jesus of Prague, which is venerated worldwide for its association with miracles and protection, especially during times of plague and war. The statue, originally from Spain and donated to the Carmelite Order in 1628 by Princess Polyxena of Lobkowicz, is renowned for its elaborate wardrobe-over 70 richly embroidered robes and several crowns, many of which have been donated by notable figures and pilgrims from around the world. The museum displays a selection of these historic and international costumes, including robes from countries such as South Korea, the Philippines, Italy, and Poland, as well as special items like a robe from Empress Maria Theresa and a crown donated by Pope Benedict XVI. Visitors can also view life-size photographs of the statue in different liturgical colors and an exhibition of nativity scenes from various countries. The tradition of dressing the statue continues today, with the vestments changed regularly according to the religious calendar, reflecting the deep devotion and global reach of the Infant Jesus of Prague’s cult. Admission to the museum is free.

Prague Czech Republic

Location

The Museum of the Infant Jesus of Prague is located inside the Church of Our Lady Victorious (Kostel Panny Marie Vítězné) at Karmelitská 9, in the Malá Strana (Lesser Town) district of Prague. The entrance to the museum is through the church, next to the main altar on the right, and visitors must ascend a spiral staircase to reach the museum space. This area is renowned for its baroque architecture and religious significance, as the church houses the famous statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague, a major pilgrimage site. Nearby, visitors will find several notable attractions within walking distance. The Český Muzeum Hudby (Czech Museum of Music) is just a short stroll away, as are the Karmelitska Clock and the Mozart Interactive Museum. The picturesque Lesser Town Square (Malostranské náměstí), dominated by the grand St. Nicholas Church, is also close, offering historic architecture, cafés, and shops. Other nearby sites include the iconic Charles Bridge, Petřín Hill with its funicular and gardens, and the Lennon Wall, making the museum an ideal stop within a vibrant and historic part of Prague