Franciskanska cerkev (Franciscan Church of the Annunciation), Ljubljana

One of the standout sights in the cityscape is the Church of the Annunciation, part of the Franciscan Monastery on Prešeren Square. Built between 1646 and 1660, its facade got a facelift around 1700, showcasing Corinthian capitals on the upper part and Ionic capitals below. Crowning the front facade is a remarkable statue of Our Lady of Loretto, crafted from beaten copper, making it the largest Madonna statue in Ljubljana. Elsewhere, three niches house sculptures representing God the Father, an angel, and the Virgin Mary.

Inside, changes in the mid-18th century brought about the grand Baroque main altar, courtesy of Francesco Robba's skilled hands, while nearby, a glass coffin holds the remains of Saint Deodatus, who had been bishop of Nevers in France before retiring to solitude. The splendor of the vault frescoes, lost in the earthquake of 1895, was painstakingly restored by Slovenian painter Matej Sternen in the 1930s.

Once the Franciscans assumed ownership, the church was painted red, symbolizing the Franciscan monastic order; however, over time, the color faded to a soft salmon pink, favored by the locals. Ever since, it has retained this attractive hue, adding to its distinctiveness.