A Novena to Infant Jesus was associated with St Teresa of Avila, and St John of the Cross in the 16th century and this devotion grew strongly.

It was introduced by the Carmelite Order in Prague when they received a small statue of the Infant from Princess Polixenie Lobkowitz and this is the statue now known as the Infant of Prague.

 

It is a small statue, maybe 12 inches in height and the outer garment is changed regularly – there are many garments available including a light green and gold one from Queen Maria Theresa (during the 1750’s) and a silk garment from a North Vietnam delegation (1958).

The Infant of Prague is on the right hand side of the Church of Our Lady of Victories on Carmelite Street. This is just a slight detour from Mala Strana Square on your way to cross Charles Bridge.