Bazilika Navštívení Panny Marie na Svatém Kopečku

The Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary (Bazilika Navštívení Panny Marie) is located on Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill), about 5 km northeast of Olomouc, in a large pilgrimage complex on the edge of the city. It is a prominent Baroque building with a two‑tower frontage, set at 382 m above sea level, and is a very distinct landmark seen from far across the flat Haná region. The basilica stands within the premonstratensian monastery complex at Klášterní Hradisko. It is directly connected to the monastery wing, which has an attic with statues of the 12 apostles and saints Sebastian and Roch. Behind the church there is a cloister and the Chapel of the Virgin Mary. Right nearby is the Olomouc Zoo, which is one of the most popular family attractions in the region. From the zoo’s viewing tower you can see the animals, the basilica, and the city of Olomouc in the distance. Svatý Kopeček is a major day‑trip and pilgrimage destination, with wooded hills, streams, and paths ideal for walking, cycling, and picnics. Within the same complex you can also visit the Svatý Kopeček Museum, which displays monstrances, reliquaries, mass vestments, and an exhibition on pilgrimage. The basilica itself is a national cultural monument and was raised to a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1995. Its interior has a single nave under a massive dome, rich frescoes, and a rare Marian relief.