Strahov Monastery

Strahov Monastery is a Premonstratensian abbey in Prague, founded in the 12th century and continuously occupied since its foundation. It is widely known for its historic library and monastic buildings.

The complex contains a well-known library with two historic halls - the Theological and the Philosophical Halls - along with richly decorated interiors, an abbey basilica, and museum displays of monastic art and liturgical objects. The site occupies a prominent hill position and provides views across the city.

The monastery was established in 1143 and developed over the medieval and early modern periods as a religious, cultural and scholarly centre; successive building campaigns added Baroque interiors and library collections. It remained an active monastic community through many political changes and now combines religious functions with public museum spaces.

Strahov sits on Strahov Hill just west of Prague Castle, within the Prague city area. It is a short tram or walk from the historic centre and is part of the larger castle and hilltop visitor zone.

• Location tip: Located on a hill northwest of Prague Castle, the monastery offers panoramic views over central Prague and is often combined with visits to Prague Castle and Petřín.
• Visiting note: The library halls are usually reached on guided routes and can be busy at peak times; morning visits often encounter fewer visitors.

What to See #

• Strahov Library: Two vaulted historic halls with painted ceilings and shelves of rare books that form the core of the monastery's famous library; the rooms are notable examples of Baroque and later interior decoration.
• Strahov Basilica: A Romanesque-Gothic basilica dating to the medieval foundation that contains monastic liturgical furnishings and art.
• Monastic Brewery and Ancillary Buildings: A small monastic brewery and ancillary buildings associated with the monastery complex and its long continuous occupation on the Strahov hill.