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Zbraslav Monastery
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Zbraslav Monastery, located south of Prague, was once one of the most vital spiritual and cultural hubs of medieval Bohemia. Established as a Cistercian abbey in 1292 by King Wenceslas II, the monastery (known as Aula Regia) was intended to serve as the royal necropolis for the Přemyslid dynasty. The complex suffered extensive damage during the Hussite Wars but experienced a grand architectural rebirth in the 18th century. Led by esteemed architects such as Giovanni Santini-Aichel and František Maximilián Kaňka, it was transformed into a monumental Baroque ensemble. Following the monastery's dissolution by Emperor Joseph II in 1785, the building was used for industrial purposes, including a sugar refinery, before being converted into a chateau by the Bartoň-Dobenín family. Today, the site houses significant art collections and stands as a national cultural monument of immense historical and architectural value.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: přírodní rezervace Slavičí údolí · přírodní památka U Závisti · přírodní rezervace Zvolská homole
- Nearby: Jesenice (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 3 | 9 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 20 | 14 | 9 | 4 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 42 | 32 | 39 | 36 | 69 | 78 | 79 | 81 | 53 | 46 | 43 | 41 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Zbraslav Monastery is an active church and can be visited during services. The historical rooms are only accessible at specific times or by appointment.
Typical hours
The church is typically open daily from morning to afternoon, with breaks during services. Exact opening hours can be obtained on site.
Photography
Photography in the church is allowed without flash and without disturbing worship. In the monastery interiors, photography permission is often limited.
Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes for a visit to the church and a short walk around the grounds. Those wanting to learn more about the history should plan an hour.
Combine with
The monastery is located in southern Prague and combines well with a visit to the botanical garden or Zbraslav Castle. The Vltava riverbanks also invite for a stroll.
Getting there
Reach the monastery by metro line B to Smíchovské nádraží station, then bus 129 to Zbraslav. Alternatively, drive via the expressway to southern Prague.
Insider tip
Visit the monastery on a weekday to enjoy the tranquility and authentic atmosphere. The proximity to the Vltava has a relaxing walk.
Geography
Facts
- King Wenceslas II is among the Czech monarchs buried at Zbraslav.
- The famous Zbraslav Chronicle was written within these walls in the 14th century.
- The extensive Baroque reconstruction of the site began in 1709.
- The monastery was officially closed under the reforms of Joseph II in 1785.
- The grounds include the significant Church of St. James the Greater.
- The premises long served as a venue for the National Gallery's Asian art collections.
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Sights in the town Zbraslav Monastery (5)
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Frequently asked questions
Can the interior of Zbraslav Monastery be visited?
The St. James Church is often accessible, but the monastery building itself now houses the National Archives.
What is the historical significance of Zbraslav Monastery?
It was the burial site of the last Bohemian kings from the Přemyslid dynasty.
Where is Zbraslav Monastery located?
It is located on the southern edge of Prague, at the confluence of the Vltava and Berounka rivers.
Are the gardens of Zbraslav Monastery public?
Part of the castle park is open to the public and is great for a stroll.
When was Zbraslav Monastery founded?
King Wenceslaus II founded the Cistercian monastery in 1292.
Zbraslav Monastery: where is it located?
Zbraslav Monastery is located in Czech Republic.
Zbraslav Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include přírodní rezervace Slavičí údolí, přírodní památka U Závisti, přírodní rezervace Zvolská homole.
Zbraslav Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Zbraslav Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
Zbraslav Monastery, located south of Prague, was once one of the most vital spiritual and cultural hubs of medieval Bohemia.
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