Brevnov Monastery

Brevnov was founded in 993 by Duke Boleslav II and Bishop Adalbert, jointly, according to the tradition, after both dreamed of the same spring - which is the Vojteska spring still in the grounds. It is the oldest male monastery in Bohemia and the Benedictines are back in it after the Communist period, during which the buildings were used by the state security service. The complex was rebuilt between 1708 and 1745 by Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer: the basilica of St Margaret is one of their best interiors, with a nave of interpenetrating oval bays, and under it survive the excavated foundations of the Romanesque crypt of about 1040, shown on the tour. The prelature holds the Theresian Hall with a painted ceiling. The brewery is documented from 993, which gives it a claim to being among the oldest in the country, and it operates again.

What you actually see

• A foundation of 993 - the oldest monastery in Bohemia, Benedictines in residence.
• The Dientzenhofer basilica - St Margaret's, with interpenetrating oval bays.
• A Romanesque crypt - excavated foundations of about 1040 beneath it.
• A brewery documented from 993 - working again in the grounds.

When to go

All year. Half a day.

Honest expectations

The basilica interior and the crypt are seen only on guided tours at set times, usually at weekends. It is a working monastery and quiet is expected. The brewery restaurant is busy at weekends.

Nearby

Prague Castle is east; the Hvezda hunting lodge is west.