The Marian sculpture group ‘Immaculata’ It is one of the most notable Baroque monuments in the historic centre Prešov. It is situated in the northern part of Hlavná Street, in a small park which creates a peaceful space in the heart of the historic town centre. The sculpture group is also known as The Holy Trinity Column, although the name ‘Immaculata’ better captures its main sculptural feature – the Virgin Mary with the Infant Jesus.
A Baroque monument with a historical story
The sculpture was created in 1751, on the initiative of the Jesuits. Its construction was linked to the commemoration of the victims of the plague epidemics that struck Prešov in 1679 and 1710. The monument’s creation thus reflects the typical Baroque endeavour to combine public space with religious symbolism, expressions of gratitude and the commemoration of significant events.
However, the site also has another significant historical layer. In the 17th century, there was an execution site in the vicinity associated with events known as The Prešov Slaughterhouse. It is precisely the tragic history of this site that gives the Marian sculpture group a special significance within the town’s history.
The Virgin Mary as the central figure of the sculpture group
The central feature of a Baroque work is a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary and Child, situated at the top of the sculpture group. On either side of the plinth are statues of saints, amongst which St Nicholas and St John of Nepomuk stand out. The decoration also includes reliefs with religious motifs.
Through its artistic design, the composition embodies Baroque culture, which left a significant mark on Prešov. The rich sculptural decoration, striking verticality and gilded elements create a work that naturally attracts the attention of visitors strolling through the historic centre.
Immaculata in the historic centre of Prešov
The Marian sculpture group is now an integral part of the atmosphere of historic Prešov and makes for an interesting stop on a tour of the town’s sights. Its location on Hlavná Street makes it easy to combine a visit to the sculpture with a tour of other significant historical buildings, religious structures, town houses and the city’s hidden corners.
The monument also serves as a reminder that Prešov’s history is not merely a story of architecture, but also one of religion, epidemics, conflicts and social change. It is precisely this interweaving of these layers that makes the Immaculata an interesting destination for visitors who wish to get to know the city on a deeper level than simply through its most famous buildings.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
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The Marian sculpture group known as the Immaculata is situated in an area that was once linked to significant and tragic events in the history of Prešov. A memorial dedicated to the victims of the Prešov massacres also stands nearby, lending the site a further historical dimension.
The appearance of the sculpture group that visitors can admire today is the result of several restoration projects. It underwent major restoration work in 1967 and between 1995 and 1997, when experts focused on preserving its sculptural and decorative elements.
An interesting event associated with this place was a visit by the Pope John Paul II. in Prešov in 1995. During his visit to the city, he also paid tribute to the victims of the Prešov massacres.
Immaculata is a good place to stop off whilst strolling through the historic centre of Prešov. As it is situated right on Hlavná Street, it can be included in a walking tour alongside the town’s other historic and religious monuments.
