Břevnov Monastery: The Oldest Monastery in Bohemia

Discover Centuries of Sacred Architecture

The present form of the Benedictine complex dates back to 1708–1745 and bears the distinctive mark of prominent Baroque architects Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. In 1948, the monastic Basilica of St. Margaret became the first church in Prague to receive the honorary title of basilica minor, granted by Pope Pius XII for its exceptional historical and spiritual significance. Archaeological research under the presbytery also uncovered a pre-Romanesque crypt dating to around 1040.

The convent building includes the winter refectory, sacristy, the chapter hall with a ceiling fresco of Christ washing the apostles’ feet (1745), the summer refectory with the ceiling fresco Miraculous Multiplication of Loaves (1739), and a billiard room. On the first floor is the monastic library with a ceiling mural and richly carved Baroque and Rococo bookcases. The guided tour also includes the ceremonial Terezian Hall, considered one of the most splendidly decorated rooms in the entire monastery. Guided tours are conducted available in English and German.

From Monastic Brewery to Garden Retreat

In the lower courtyard below the Klášterní šenk restaurant lies the St. Adalbert Břevnov Monastic Brewery, whose brewing tradition dates back to the 11th century. Beer is still brewed on-site and can be tasted in the Klášterní výčep taproom, located in the historic Baroque granary—right next to the monastery’s small shop and information center.

The monastery gardens, freely accessible daily from 6:45 AM to 8:00 PM, offer a peaceful space for rest and spiritual reflection. Visitors can discover the Orangery, the Chapel of St. Joseph (known as Josefka), and other charming corners. The gardens also host civil wedding ceremonies, taking full advantage of the unique combination of natural beauty and sacred atmosphere.

After 1990, the entire complex was returned to the Benedictine order and is now protected as a national cultural monument.

For those who wish to fully experience the unique genius loci of the monastery grounds, accommodation is available right in its heart – at Hotel Adalbert, located in the former so-called small (Sartorius) convent, offering a quiet and comfortable stay just steps away from the historical heart of the monastery.