Monastery Borovany: A Baroque Gem
Explore the Baroque beauty and rich history of Monastery Borovany, a South Bohemian cultural landmark with stunning architecture and serene gardens.
The Monastery Borovany, located in the town of Borovany, is a captivating blend of historical significance and cultural vibrancy. Founded in 1455, the monastery has undergone several transformations, reflecting the changing tides of Czech history. Originally established by Petr of Linda, it faced decline in the 16th century and was later abolished in 1785 by Emperor Joseph II. The Schwarzenberg family acquired the estate and converted it into a castle until 1939 when the municipality purchased it. The monastery's architecture is predominantly Baroque, a result of its reconstruction in the 18th century. The tower, added in 1729, became a defining feature of the town. The complex includes the Church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, known for its late Gothic style, and a prelature often referred to as the "chateau". The grounds also feature landscaped gardens, including an herb garden and a municipal park, offering a serene environment. Today, the Monastery Borovany serves as a cultural hub, attracting visitors with its engaging tours and interactive exhibits. Multimedia content enriches the tours, making them appealing to all ages. The monastery also houses a library, information center, exhibition spaces, and a café. Events and activities are held throughout the year, including concerts and local festivals.
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be more crowded.
- Take your time exploring the gardens; the natural beauty is as captivating as the architecture.
- Check the schedule for local events or exhibitions happening during your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views and intricate details of the monastery.
- Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary throughout the year.
A brief summary to monastery Borovany
- Žižkovo nám. 1, 373 12, CZ
- +420387001356
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The closest train station to the Monastery Borovany is Borovany. From the Borovany train station, it is approximately a 12-minute walk (about 900 meters) to the monastery. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Borovany, aut.nádr.. From there, the monastery is a short walk away. A single train ticket from České Budějovice to Borovany costs between 35 Kč to 80 Kč. Bus tickets have similar fares.
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Walking
From the center of Borovany, the Monastery is easily accessible by foot. It's located at Žižkovo nám. 1, which is the main square. The walk is short and allows you to take in the sights of the town. No costs are associated with walking.
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Car
If driving, free parking is available in front of the monastery. From the D3 highway, take the Borovany exit. Follow the signs to the town center (Žižkovo náměstí). Parking is free. There are also other parking spots nearby. No parking fees apply.
