Plizio Visual Lab
Červený Kláštor
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
museum
Červený Kláštor, or the Red Monastery, is a prominent historical and religious landmark located in the Pieniny Mountains along the banks of the Dunajec River. Established in 1319 by Master Kokos of Brezovica, it served as a residence for Carthusian monks for several centuries, characterized by their vow of silence and ascetic life. The monastery's name is derived from the red bricks used in its architectural details, particularly on the windows and cornices. In the 18th century, it was inhabited by the Camaldolese order, who established one of the most significant pharmacies in the region. The monastery is famously associated with Brother Cyprian, a skilled herbalist whose herbarium from 1766 is still preserved today. Currently, the site operates as a museum showcasing Gothic and Baroque architecture, religious art, and the history of monastic medicine. Its proximity to the Dunajec Gorge makes it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Location: Slovakia
- Top sights: Červený kláštor · Holica
- Nearby: Vyšné Ružbachy (15 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 | -5 | -3 | 1 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 7 | 3 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 50 | 48 | 53 | 58 | 107 | 114 | 126 | 85 | 79 | 65 | 50 | 47 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The former monastery is a museum and open to visitors. The interiors and cloister can be seen, the adjacent park is freely accessible.
Typical hours
The museum has seasonal hours, open daily in the main season from May to September. Hours are shorter in winter, please check in advance.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the museum without flash. The cloister and botanical garden offer especially beautiful subjects.
Time needed
A museum visit takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Including a walk in the park and the nearby Pieniny forest, allow 2 to 3 hours.
Combine with
Combine with a hike in the Pieniny National Park. The nearby Dunajec Castle is also worth a detour.
Getting there
The monastery is in the village of Červený Kláštor in northern Slovakia. By car, reach it via road 542, parking is at the village entrance.
Insider tip
Visit the monastery's herb gardens, reminiscent of monk Cyprian's botanical studies. An audio guide is included in the entrance fee.
Geography
Facts
- The monastery was officially founded in 1319
- Carthusian monks resided here between 1320 and 1563
- Brother Cyprian's herbarium was completed in 1766
- The site was declared a National Cultural Monument in 1970
- Camaldolese monks introduced a pharmacy here in 1711
- It is located at the entrance to the Dunajec River Gorge
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Červený Kláštor (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Red Monastery (Červený kláštor)?
It is a former Carthusian and Camaldolese monastery in the Pieniny National Park, now serving as a museum.
Why is it called the 'Red' Monastery?
The name derives from the red bricks used for the cornices and window frames of the buildings.
Who was Monk Cyprian?
A famous Camaldolese monk known as a botanist (Cyprian's Herbarium) and through the legend of his 'flying machine'.
What can you visit in the museum?
The monastery church, reconstructed monk cells, the historic herbarium, and pharmaceutical exhibits.
Can you stay overnight there?
Yes, there is a guesthouse and a restaurant located within a part of the monastery complex.
Červený Kláštor: where is it located?
Červený Kláštor is located in Slovakia.
Červený Kláštor: what is there to see?
Highlights include Červený kláštor, Holica.
Červený Kláštor: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Červený Kláštor: why is it worth visiting?
Červený Kláštor, or the Red Monastery, is a prominent historical and religious landmark located in the Pieniny Mountains along the banks of the Dunajec River.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Slovakia →
Nearby cities
Sídlisko KVP
One of the largest housing estates in Košice, offering a mix of modern living and green spaces, providing a unique glimpse into local life.
Košice
Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia and the center of the eastern region.
Prešov
The third-largest city in Slovakia is located at the confluence of the Torysa and Sekčov rivers.
Martin
Martin is located in the Turiec Basin and is a significant cultural center for Slovaks.
Spišská Nová Ves
This Spiš region city is the gateway to the Slovak Paradise National Park.
Humenné
Humenné is located in the Laborec valley in eastern Slovakia.
Bardejov
Bardejov in the northeast is one of Slovakia's oldest and most beautiful towns.
Liptovský Mikuláš
Located in the Liptov Basin between the Low and High Tatras, this town is a major tourist hub.
Ružomberok
Ružomberok is located at the confluence of the Váh and Revúca rivers and is a major center for the paper industry.
Vlkolínec Historical Heritage
The village preserves traditional folk architecture from the 19th century.
Lučenec
Lučenec is the economic and cultural center of the Novohrad region in southern Slovakia.
Trebišov
Trebišov is located in the southern part of the Eastern Slovak Lowland.
Čadca
Čadca is the center of the Kysuce region in northern Slovakia, near the Czech and Polish borders.
Rimavská Sobota
Rimavská Sobota is located on the Rimava River in southern Slovakia.
Vranov nad Topľou
Vranov nad Topľou is located in northeastern Slovakia on the Topľa River.
History & landmarks
Bardejov Town Hall
This former town hall stands isolated in the center of Bardejov's market square.
Vlkolínec
A perfectly preserved mountain village and UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Northern Slovakia's traditional log architecture.
Levoča Old Town Hall
This Renaissance town hall stands in the middle of Levoča's historic square.