The Kraslava Catholic Church is the most outstanding example of Baroque architecture in Latgale. The first wooden church for Catholics was built between 1580 and 1590 by Miķelis de Brunavs. The present church was constructed from 1755 to 1767 according to the design of the Italian architect Antonio Paraco. In the altar area of the church there is an 18th-century fresco painted by the Italian artist Filippo Castaldi, “Saint Louis Sets Out on a Crusade.” The restoration of the fresco took 12 years and was completed in 2015.
Of particular significance are the relics of Saint Donatus the Martyr, which attract a large number of believers, making Kraslava the second largest pilgrimage destination in Latgale after Aglona. From 1757 to 1844, a theological seminary operated next to the church—the first institution of higher education in Latvia.
Guided tours must be booked in advance!