This dramatic story is situated in the town of Trnava of the 18th century. Painter Peter paints an altar-piece of the Martyrdom of St. Juliet and his model is a young girl. This is much disliked by the clergy who unjustly accuse the girl of witchcraft. She is saved from being burnt at a stake by the students of the Trnava University.
Un jeune déserteur polonais et organiste doué trouve refuge contre les fascistes dans un monastère franciscain slovaque. Il entre en conflit avec l'organiste et chef de chœur local, un homme limité dans sa vision du monde et ses valeurs spirituelles.