Plasy Monastery: A Baroque Masterpiece on Water

Discover a Baroque architectural marvel in West Bohemia, where history, art, and innovative engineering converge at the Plasy Monastery.

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Plasy Monastery

Plasy Monastery, founded in 1144 and later transformed into a stunning Baroque complex, stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and historical significance. Its unique foundation, built on thousands of oak piles within a sophisticated water system, makes it a must-see destination in West Bohemia.

A brief summary to Plasy Monastery

Pivovarská 1, 331 01, CZ
Visit website

Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and some stairs.
Check the official website for tour times and special events.
Consider booking the 'Water System' tour for a deeper understanding of the monastery's unique foundation.
Bring a light jacket, as the underground areas can be cool.
Explore the surrounding monastery grounds, which are free to access.

Getting There

Car

From Plzeň, take Route 27 north for approximately 30 minutes. Follow the signs to Plasy. Once in Plasy, follow the main road past the granary building and convent. Just before the bridge over the Střela river, turn right. Free parking is available in front of the monastery's ticket office. Parking is free.
Public Transport

From Plzeň, take a bus to Plasy. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes. From the Plasy bus stop, it's a short walk to the monastery. Follow the main road towards the Střela river; the monastery will be on your right. Bus fare is approximately 40-60 CZK.
Walking

From the Plasy train station, it is approximately 1 km to the monastery complex. Follow the road from the station towards the town center. Continue towards the main road and turn right. The monastery will be on your right, a short distance after entering the main road. No costs involved.

Discover more about Plasy Monastery

Plasy Monastery, located north of Pilsen in West Bohemia, is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and engineering. Founded in 1144 by Prince Vladislav II, it holds the distinction of being the oldest monastery in the Czech lands. The monastery's early years saw growth through donations and the industrious efforts of its monks. The monastery faced destruction during the Hussite Wars in 1421, but it began to recover after the Thirty Years' War. A significant rebuilding phase from 1661 to 1785 transformed it into a Baroque masterpiece, with notable contributions from architects like Jean Baptiste Mathey, Jan Blažej Santini Aichel, and Kilian Ignác Dientzenhofer. Santini Aichel's innovative designs included self-supporting staircases and a unique water management system to stabilize the building on marshy ground. The monastery's foundation rests on 5,100 oak piles, constantly submerged in water to prevent decay, a testament to medieval engineering. The warning “Aedificium hoc sine aquis ruet” (this building will fall without water) serves as a message to future generations. After its abolition in 1785 by Emperor Joseph II, the monastery became a private residence of Chancellor Metternich in 1826. He converted the prelature into a chateau and the site became a cultural and industrial center. The complex suffered neglect during the 20th century but has been undergoing restoration since the 1970s and was declared a National Cultural Monument in 1995. Visitors can explore the convent, admire the Baroque frescoes and the Chapel of St. Bernard, and learn about the monastery's history and unique water system. The monastery also has a fascinating history of medical care, including the production of the famed 'Plasy Powder,' a sought-after stomach medicine.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

lookout Sylván

18.7 km

Experience breathtaking panoramic views and serene landscapes at Lookout Sylván, a must-visit observation deck in Pilsen, Czech Republic.

Na Obcizně

20.3 km

Explore Na Obcizně, a historical landmark in Pilsen 3, where the past meets the present in stunning architectural beauty and serene surroundings.

Dělnický dům Peklo

20.7 km

Discover the rich history of Pilsen at Dělnický Dům Peklo, a captivating historical landmark celebrating local culture and architecture.

Historické hradby

20.7 km

Explore the Historic Walls of Plzeň, a magnificent medieval structure offering stunning views and deep historical significance.

dům U města Paříže

20.8 km

Explore the architectural beauty and cultural heritage of Dům U města Paříže, a must-visit historical landmark in Pilsen, Czech Republic.

Renaissance Town Hall

20.9 km

Explore the Renaissance Town Hall in Pilsen, a stunning architectural landmark that reflects the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

Marian Column

20.9 km

Discover the beautiful Marian Column in Pilsen, a stunning Baroque landmark steeped in history, surrounded by vibrant local culture and charm.

Mrakodrap Bohemia

21.1 km

Explore Mrakodrap Bohemia in Pilsen, an architectural gem representing the city’s modern skyline and innovative spirit.

Kostel svaté Anny

21.1 km

Explore Kostel svaté Anny, a serene church in Plzeň, where history, architecture, and tranquility converge for an unforgettable experience.

Církev Římskokatolická

21.2 km

Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of the Church of St. John of Nepomuk in Plzeň, a cornerstone of Czech Catholic heritage.

Stará synagoga

21.3 km

Discover the rich Jewish heritage at Stará Synagoga, one of the oldest synagogues in the Czech Republic, nestled in the heart of Pilsen.

Thank You America

21.3 km

Explore the historic 'Thank You America' monument in Pilsen, a tribute to the American liberation of the city during WWII, rich in history and cultural significance.

Křivoklát Castle

36.3 km

Explore the stunning Křivoklát Castle, a historical gem of the Czech Republic surrounded by lush forests and rich with medieval history.

Starý zámek

38.5 km

Explore Starý zámek in Hořovice - a stunning castle offering rich history, breathtaking views, and beautiful gardens perfect for every traveler.

Southern Pilsen Region Museum in Blovice

41.2 km

Explore rich history and vibrant culture at the Southern Pilsen Region Museum in Blovice, a must-visit for curious travelers in Czech Republic.

Unmissable attractions to see

Fantasy Golf

0.3 km

Embark on a global adventure! Play mini-golf, explore a zoo, and discover botanical wonders at Fantasy Golf Plasy.

Museum and Gallery of the North Pilsen in Marianske Týnice, po

7.6 km

Explore art and history in a stunning Baroque setting at the Museum and Gallery of the North Pilsen in Mariánská Týnice.

Museum and Gallery of the North Pilsen in Marianske Týnice, po

Bělá Castle

9.3 km

Discover the historical Bělá Castle in Dolní Bělá: ruins, hiking, and scenic views await in the Plzeň Region. A perfect blend of history and nature.

Chateau Manětín

12.9 km

Discover the enchanting charm of Chateau Manětín, a historical manor house offering breathtaking architecture and lush gardens in the heart of the Czech Republic.

Zřícenina hradu Sychrov

13.9 km

Discover the medieval ruins of Sychrov Castle near Rabštejn nad Střelou, a testament to Bohemia's rich history and strategic importance.

Krašov Castle ruins

14.2 km

Discover the medieval Krašov Castle ruins in West Bohemia: history, views, hiking, and family fun await!

Pitch oven in Plzeň

15.7 km

Explore Plzeň's industrial heritage at the Pitch Oven, a unique and well-preserved 18th-century kiln in the Bolevec district.

Třímanské skály

15.7 km

Discover dramatic cliffs and rare flora at Třímanské skály, a protected natural reserve near Kladruby-Zbiroh. A haven for hikers and nature lovers.

Sigmond trail

16.6 km

Experience the natural beauty and serenity of the Sigmond Trail in Pilsen, a scenic haven for hikers and nature lovers.

Malochova skalka

17.1 km

Explore Malochova Skalka: A haven of natural beauty, diverse flora, and rich geological history along the Berounka River near Plzeň.

Památny Strom

18.4 km

Discover Památny Strom, a majestic natural monument in Pilsen, blending history and nature for an unforgettable tourist experience.

Pod Sylvánem

19.1 km

Explore the serene beauty of Pod Sylvánem, a tranquil oasis in Pilsen, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures amidst nature.

house of fairytales

19.5 km

Discover the whimsical world of stories at the House of Fairytales in Pilsen, where imagination comes to life through enchanting exhibits and activities.

Poustevníkova jeskyně

19.5 km

Discover the serene Hermit's Cave in Pilsen's Lochotín Park, a charming relic of the area's spa history and peaceful retreat.

Lochotín park

19.5 km

Discover the tranquility and natural beauty of Lochotín Park in Pilsen, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Experience authentic Czech cuisine at Plzeňka Plzeň, home of Pilsner Urquell specialties in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Štipec

21.0 km

Experience the flavors of Czech cuisine at Štipec, Pilsen's top-rated restaurant known for its delightful dishes and inviting atmosphere.

Explore GEBO Gift Shop in Pilsen for unique Czech souvenirs and locally crafted treasures that capture the essence of this vibrant city.

Discover My Friends Bar in Plzeň - a lively cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for socializing.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Plasy Monastery: A Baroque Masterpiece on Water

A brief summary to Plasy Monastery

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transport

Walking

Unlock the Best of Plasy Monastery

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Plasy Monastery

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

lookout Sylván

Na Obcizně

Dělnický dům Peklo

Historické hradby

dům U města Paříže

Renaissance Town Hall

Marian Column

Mrakodrap Bohemia

Kostel svaté Anny

Církev Římskokatolická

Stará synagoga

Thank You America

Křivoklát Castle

Starý zámek

Southern Pilsen Region Museum in Blovice

Unmissable attractions to see

Fantasy Golf

Museum and Gallery of the North Pilsen in Marianske Týnice, po

Bělá Castle

Chateau Manětín

Zřícenina hradu Sychrov

Krašov Castle ruins

Pitch oven in Plzeň

Třímanské skály

Sigmond trail

Malochova skalka

Památny Strom

Pod Sylvánem

house of fairytales

Poustevníkova jeskyně

Lochotín park

Essential places to dine

Starobolevecká pub

Restaurace TJ Prazdroj

Restaurace ZA OPONOU

Parkan

BUDDHA - indická a nepálská restaurace

Restaurace & Hotel U Salzmannů

Rango Restaurant, Hotel, Winebar

Angus Steak House Plzeň

Delish

Švejk Restaurant U Pětatřicátníků

Hospoda Na Spilce - tankové pivo

Lékárna - restaurant - šenk

Ristorante Budino

Plzeňka Plzeň

Štipec

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Potraviny Vecerka

Pozor pes.cz

actaul bohemia

Secondhelp DOUBRAVKA

Oficiální Fanshop FC Viktoria Plzeň

U Černé Labutě

The Candy Store

MerryJem ART krásný obchůdek v Plzni

Gift shop Pilsner Urquell

GadgetIT s.r.o.

Plzeň Plaza

Výdejní a dárkové centrum / www.darkypresnet.cz

Klenotnictví a hodinářství Altman

Olivové dřevo CZ

GEBO

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Nekmířská hospůdka

Zach's Pub

Forestbar