Trenta / The Church of Our Lady of Loreto

virtual excursion

The Church of Our Lady of Loreto, located in the settlement Pri Cerkvi in the Trenta Valley, is an important cultural and historical monument. Built in 1690 at the request of the Attems family, one of the most influential noble families from Friuli, the church was originally intended for miners working in the local ironworks. However, after the closure of the ironworks in 1778, the miners relocated, and the remaining inhabitants turned to hunting and farming.

One of the most remarkable features of the church is a wooden statue of the Black Madonna holding Jesus, displayed in a niche on the altar. This statue is the only one of its kind in Slovenia and is typically found only in certain pilgrimage churches across Europe, the most famous being in Loreto, Italy, from which the Loreto Madonna gets its name. The statue is displayed only on the feast day of the Loreto Madonna on December 10 and during the celebration of Saints Joachim and Anne on the last Sunday in July. During these occasions, the statue is dressed in a special white silk robe adorned with gold lace, red velvet, and embroidery. Mary and Jesus also wear silver crowns embedded with precious stones.

Architecturally, the church is notable for its rectangular layout, with a bell tower attached to the north side. The exterior features a Baroque stone sculpture of the Virgin Mary standing in a niche on the main facade. The church's interior was decorated with frescoes in 1945 by Slovenian painter Tone Kralj, depicting biblical scenes. The altar, a simple carpentry work from the early 20th century, was modified during World War II and later restored in 2009.

The Church of Our Lady of Loreto is not just an architectural gem but also a vital part of the local community. Its history reflects the past economic activities of Trenta as well as the deep religious traditions that have endured over time. Every year, it attracts pilgrims and visitors who admire its historical significance and spiritual resonance.

This church remains a symbol of the past, connecting history, art, and faith into a single entity, while continuing to serve as a place of prayer and reflection.