Karmel sv. Josefa - Hradčanské nám. 184

Thank you for every day I can begin in the community of sisters, O.Skoblik, Sister Bibi, and other believers

In the southwestern side of Hradcanska Square there is an architectural complex in the Baroque style. This is the monastery of the Discalced Carmelites. The Sisters of the Order observe strict rules and lead a contemplative lifestyle. The Order itself arose in the 16th century, separating from the main Carmelite branch. The first barefoot Carmelites arrived in Prague in 1655, led by the future abbess, Maria Electra. The nuns settled in Wallenstein's house, and for their monastery they began to rebuild the church of St. Benedict, built in the 14th century. The reconstruction project of the building in the Baroque style was carried out by Carlo Lurago. The work dragged on for almost a hundred years, so the nuns had to occupy the unfinished complex. Emperor Joseph II abolished the monastery in 1786. The Meeting of English Maidens was transferred to the monastery from the Lazansky Palace. The building was rebuilt in a classical style, equipped with classrooms. Emperor Leopold II again facilitated the return of the Carmelite order to Prague. Until 1950, the complex was the abode of the Order. With the advent of the communists, the building of the temple was expropriated, repaired, furnished with fashionable furniture, equipped with expensive chandeliers and carpets. So in the former monastery a hotel was opened for high-ranking officials of the new regime, with a restaurant and conference rooms. With the collapse of Czechoslovakia and the departure of the communists from the political life of the country, the monastery was restored in 1991, and in 1992 the nuns returned to the monastery. The sisters auctioned off the expensive property left over from the party hotel, and again began to live in accordance with their strict charter. The relics of the abbess Maria Electra are considered the main shrine of the monastery. She died in 1663 and was buried in the monastery garden, in the chapel of St. Elijah. During the flood, the coffin was carried out by a stream of water from the underground chapel. To the amazement of the nuns, Maria Electra's body and clothing were untouched by the decay. Now the sacred mummy is at the altar - it can be seen when visiting the monastery church of St. Benedict, where services are regularly held.