Strahov Monastery

Monastery · Hradcany ·

Strahov Monastery

Monastery · Hradcany ·

Spectacular library, Baroque frescoes, panoramic city views, brewery

Information

Strahovské nádvoří 1/132, 118 00 Praha 1-Strahov, Czechia Get directions

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"Fairy-Tale Library & Panoramic Views One of the most spectacular libraries in the world is at the Strahov Monastery in Prague . While it is a bit off the beaten path for most tourists, it really is a must-see. Over 125,000 classic and rare books fill floor-to-ceiling bookshelves at the monastery, which sits on a hill. There are two halls. The Theological Hall dates from the 1600s and features ornate, 18th-century Baroque frescoes on the ceiling. The Philosophical Hall (pictured) is truly spectacular - an 18th century creation built in the Classic style that features Greek frescoes and opulently carved wooden bookcases with golden accents. On the grounds of the monastery are also The Church of Saint Roch, an art gallery and a brewery with the best sweeping views of Prague - truly a wonderful, enchanting way to spend a beautiful afternoon."

The Best Things to Do in Prague

Strahov Monastery

@ricksteves

706 Postcards · 220 Cities

Prague Travel Guide Resources & Trip Planning Info by Rick Steves

"▲ Baroque center of learning, with ornate reading rooms and old-fashioned science exhibits." - Rick Steves' Europe

https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/czech-republic/prague

Strahov Monastery

Denis I.

Google

Visiting Strahov Monastery was an absolute delight and one of the most beautiful experiences in Prague. The interior architecture and the paintings are truly out of this world — breathtakingly detailed, elegant, and incredibly well preserved. Every room feels like stepping into a masterpiece. What made the visit even more memorable was the kindness and professionalism of the staff. We accidentally purchased a larger visiting package than we needed, and the staff were unbelievably nice and understanding. They changed our tickets without any hassle and even refunded the difference to us in cash. That level of honesty and customer care is rare and deeply appreciated. Thank you very much for such a wonderful experience!

GEORGE S.

Google

A truly impressive and peaceful place. The library halls are absolutely stunning, full of history and atmosphere, and the view over Prague from the area is beautiful. Very well organized, clean, and worth visiting even if you’re short on time.

Archie

Google

Impressive monastery, definitely worth a visit after the castle. We didnt go inside to see the library, but you can still walk the grounds and see the chapel for free. There is a convenient path back down into Mala Strana behind the monastery with a great viewpoint.

Maciej P.

Google

Monastery is free, while the library and art gallery is paid, while the ticket office is in old small chapel. Monastery is really nice, but unfortunately we could only see it at the entrance through the bars, don't know if it's open normally but vault with all of the paintings are really gorgeous so it was a shame. The library is located on the right side from the entrance (the sign suggests it's for the art gallery but that's at the end of the library) and there are actually two next to each other. There are paintings on the cellings but you can't see much, since you can only view it through the doors, which is most likely to protect the books, however makes it really hard to appreciate them. There are exhibit in between presenting some books, old coins etc. which are actually more interesting.

Jody T.

Google

This was a fantastic experience. The library blew me away-- the painting on the ceiling was breathtaking. And the gallery was spectacular. I'm really glad I got the chance to visit. Next time I hope to have a guided tour.

Dany K.

Google

The monster had a great library, you can visit it's vestibule which is very nice (tickets are required) and also a gallery, basilica and a brewery. You can enter the basilica for free but you'll be able to see it only from the entrance. The brewery is a working restaurant with great beers and home made gin. The monster is surrounded by gardens and park.

Catherine

Google

The library is accessible only with a paid tour reserved in advance online. We bought our tickets in the automatic ticket machine and didn't see any information stating that the library will not be accessible - on the contrary, it was on the list. In fact, we could only have a peak through the open doors. Maybe we missed this information somewhere, but anyway it was not clearly apparent and we felt misled.

Maria K.

Google

Strahov Abbey has a lot to offer. Take a look at the old shelves of a beautiful library hidden inside the monastery complex, go to a basilica, and of course, try their famous craft beer. And what a stunning view of the city!