Strahov Monastery

Perched high above the city of a thousand spires is the second oldest monastery in Prague, the Strahov Monastery, which dates back to the 12th century. A dominant gateway showcases the entrance to the monastery, which is made up of several buildings with the Church of Assumption of our Lady and the Church of St. Roch. The peaceful atmosphere makes Strahov Monastery the perfect place for an afternoon wander or a nap under an ancient tree. Strahov is famous for its two Baroque libraries, the Philosophical library and the Theological library. What masterpieces of Baroque they are! The Philosophical library boasts a painted ceiling by Franz Anton Maulbertsch depicting enlightenment, while the Theological library is even more beautiful with intricate frescoed ceilings complete with detailed stuccowork. Unfortunately you are not allowed to go inside the libraries, you must admire then from behind a red velvet rope. It is still curious all the same though as you will set your eyes on rare volumes such as the 9th century Strahov Gospel. The nearby cloisters are home to a religious art collection.

Strahovské nádvoří 1, Praha 1, info@strahovskyklaster.cz, www.strahovskyklaster.cz