The most renowned site in Bohemia: Svatá Hora near Příbram

Pilgrimage destinations act as serene havens for those seeking tranquility for reflection and prayer. Among these, Svatá Hora, Svatý Hostýn, Hora Matky Boží, Maria Hilf, and Homole stand out as excellent travel recommendations, inviting further exploration. Each of these top five locations offers its own surprises. The expansive early Baroque pilgrimage site known as Svatá Hora is perched above Příbram; there is a road that leads up from the town center to this site. Here, you can find a covered staircase corridor designed by the architect Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, while the entire pilgrimage site follows a cohesive style as envisioned by architect Carlo Luraga.

The construction spanned a significant amount of time, influenced by how funds were gathered, but the final product undeniably asserts its status as one of the most well-known Marian sites in Central Europe. According to legend, the statue of Our Lady of the Holy Mountain, holding the Infant Jesus, was carved from pear wood by Archbishop Arnošt of Pardubice during the mid-14th century. Inside her wardrobe, visitors will find garments dedicated to Maria Theresa, crafted from the wedding dress of her daughter, Marie Antoinette. A visit to Svatá Hora can easily be combined with an exploration of the Mining Museum or a trip to Brda, like the scenic Pilská reservoir.

The most distinguished in Moravia: Svatý Hostýn

Hostýn might not claim the title of the tallest peak in the Hostýn Mountains (that honor belongs to Kelčský Javorník at 864 meters along with its lookout tower), but its summit stands proudly at 735 meters, making it quite impressive nonetheless. At this peak, you will find the pilgrimage basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, visible from a great distance and affectionately referred to as the lighthouse of Moravia. The pilgrimage area at Svatý Hostýn also includes the Svato Hostýn Museum, hospitality houses with dining options, two cross paths, and a modest round tower. Most trips to Hostýn usually begin in Bystřice pod Hostýnem, where shuttle buses can take you up, though it’s also accessible by foot via marked trails. Beyond the basilica, you can venture further into the beautiful Hostýnské hills to see the remnants of Obřany Castle, which, at 704 meters above sea level, is regarded as the second tallest castle in Moravia, just after the nearby Skalný Castle.

Premier site: Mountain of the Mother of God in Králíky

High above Králíky is the monastery dedicated to the Mountain of the Mother of God. Few pilgrimage sites are as inviting to visitors: The church, the pilgrims’ courtyard, and the Chapel of the Holy Steps provide daily access without any charge, and there are additional opportunities to tour the ambulatory, crypt, and other intriguing spots. A short distance away, you can find the Val lookout tower, and the views of the surrounding Králický Sněžník massif and Suchý vrch—complete with its lookout tower—are also remarkable from the monastery itself. A steep lane adorned with chapels leads from the town; you can follow the designated Count’s Trail. This lovely area is a popular destination for enthusiasts of military sites, featuring artillery fortresses like Bouda and Hůrka, the Military Museum, thematic nature trails, and many smaller attractions within the Royal Fortress Area.

The most secluded: Maria Hilf near Zlaté Hory

This pilgrimage area, featuring the Church of Our Lady Help of Christians, is reachable by foot via marked trails or by a road that branches off the main route from Zlaté Hory to Heřmanovice. Maria Hilf, or Our Lady of Help, has a particularly touching backstory among the five locations. The site was entirely destroyed during the past regime and was only revitalized in the 1990s. From the pilgrimage church, it’s easy to reach the Post Office Adit, which is one of the many historic mining sites where precious metals were once extracted. Visitors are also drawn to the gold-mining museum situated in the Valley of the Lost Adits west of Zlaté Hory and the nearby picturesque mountain village of Rejvíz, famous for its beautiful peat bog.

The closest to heaven: Homole

Homole Hill features the stunning Baroque church of Our Lady of Sorrows, said to be the ladder leading to heaven—and when you’re at the base of the staircase leading to the church at the hill’s top, you might just believe it. However, the actual staircase contains “only” 153 steps and sixteen landings, symbolizing the number of Hail Marys and Our Fathers recited in the Great Rosary prayer. Homole also attracts many legends that add to its charm: one tale speaks of a black carriage driven by a devil that travels up and down the staircase nightly, linked to Countess Therese Eleonora Ugarte, who was said to treat the workers dreadfully during its construction. Instead of waiting for her, you might want to explore nearby attractions, like the New Castle in Kostelec nad Orlicí or Potštejn’s castle or simply stop by the Clock Craft Brewery for something delightful to enjoy.

Top Five Marian Pilgrimage Sites in the Czech Republic

Discover these sacred sites where unique beauty and a profound spiritual atmosphere invite pilgrims and visitors alike.

1. Svatá Hora

• Location: Situated above Příbramí.

• Architectural Highlights:

  • A large early Baroque pilgrimage site created as part of a unified architectural concept by Carlo Lurag.

  • Features a covered stairway designed by architect Kilian Ignác Dientzenhofer.

  • Home to the statue of Our Lady of Svatohora, sculpted by Archbishop Arnost of Pardubice.

2. Svatý Hostýn

• Key Attractions:

  • The pilgrimage basilica.

  • The Svatohostýn Museum.

  • A series of pilgrimage houses and a lookout tower.

  • Marked hiking trails enhancing the overall experience.

• Visitor Information:

  • This monastery is open every day, offering free entry.

  • Guided tours are available for the ambulatory, crypt, and surrounding areas.

• Access: Reachable on foot via marked paths or by shuttle bus departing from Bystřice pod Hostýnem.

3. Maria Hilf

• Historical Note:

  • This site was entirely destroyed during the former regime and was rebuilt in the 1990s.

• Unique Aspect:

  • Recognized as the most isolated pilgrimage site.

  • Located near Zlaté Hory and can be accessed on foot via marked trails.

4. Homole

• Site Feature:

  • At the summit, visitors will find the Baroque Church of Our Lady of Sorrows.

  • A distinctive staircase is present, representing the number of Hail Marys and Our Fathers in the Great Rosary.

5. Mount of the Mother of God

• Distinction:

  • Known as the highest Marian pilgrimage site.

• Location:

  • Situated in Králíky.

Additional Nearby Attractions

For those looking to expand their visit, you can also explore:

• New Castle in Kostelec nad Orlicí

• Potštejn Castle

• Clock Craft Brewery: A perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a local brew.