The Pilgrimage Church of the Holy Mother of God at Prihova

Fees:

Visit to the church is free of charge

Working hours:

A tour can be previously arranged at the TIC – Tourist Information Centre of Slovenske Konjice, Stari trg 27, 3210 Slovenske Konjice

T: +386 (0)3 759 31 10

M: +386 (0)51 444 141

E: info@tickonjice.si

The Pilgrimage Church of the Holy Mother of God at Prihova, a few kilometers from the towns of Slovenske Konjice and Oplotnica, set in the mid 15th century, carries a special story. The building of the church was encouraged by the local people at that time. They were inspired by the cherry tree, which bloomed at Christmas, as this was taken as a special hint from God. The first and the largest donor to the construction was Wolfgang Valzej, a relative of the wealthy German counts.

The church with 3 names:

• some people call it the Pilgrimage Church of Mary's Protection,
• in other sources we can find the record Pilgrimage Church of Holy Mother of God,
• and others call it the Church of Assumption of Mary.

Known for its beautiful altars and Fantoni's murals

The original main altar in the style of the German Renaissance is among the most beautiful golden altars in Slovenia. The sculptor Franc Zamlik from Konjice enlarged it in 1743 and enriched it with 10 baroque statues. By 1750, he completed two of the four side altars. The spawning arched interior is supplemented by the magnificent 19th century Fantoni's late-Nazarene murals, depicting Mary's holidays.

To Prihova for forgiveness

A plaque has been hanging above the front door of the church since 2010, which is an official proof of the spiritual and kinship bond of the Pilgrimage Church of Holy Mother of God at Prihova with the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. The pilgrims can thus receive full forgiveness during the Assumption of Mary on 15th August.