Brevnov Abbey

Prague Church, Garden, Hotel and Even a Cool Restaurant

Brevnov Abbey, also known as Břevnovský Klášter, is a working abbey. For us, it always seems like a local place even though it carries a significant and long history.

People come here for church services, to wander the gardens or have a beer and a bite to eat at the restaurant on site.

It's where we take the kids to roam the gardens, feed the ducks on the ponds, see the frescoes inside the bacilica and take in a concert every now and again.

Brevnov Abbey is just outside of Prague's historical center. But, it's easy to get to -  just a few stops on tram 22 past Prague Castle.

Brevnov Abbey was founded in 993 which makes it the oldest Benedictine monastery in the country. Much of what you see today though is from the 18th century.

Through the centuries, like many Prague attractions, it took its share of hits from general decay, war and different governments.

But thankfully, the abbey has slowly been restored to its early vision.

What's Here?

Church and Abbey Buildings

The main jewel of Brevnov abbey is the impressive St. Margaret's Basilica. This Prague church like St. Nicholas' was built by Kristof Dientzenhofer in classic baroque style in the early 18th century.

It's a daunting sight even from the tram stop as it stands out amongst the greenery of the abbey. Inside are incredible trompe l'oeil frescoes on the vaulted ceiling and a robust organ in the balcony.

The other buildings of the abbey are only viewable by arranged tour. There's a Romanesque crypt, more frescoes and Theresa Hall where concerts are occasionally performed. Check the placard near the main entrance to the abbey for more info.

Church Services at Brevnov Abbey

Attending a church service doesn't require any particular faith or commitment, so please come by for a service if you have a chance. Just to sit in the pews and hear the organ is a wonderful experience. And, there's a children's mass on the first Sunday of every month.

Sunday	7:30	9:00	18:00
Daily		7:00	18:00
Prayer of the Rosary			17:25

Gardens

The area outside the walls of the abbey include beautiful willow trees, a few small fields and two small ponds fed from a spring. Feel free to hang out and feed the ducks and carp or stroll through the grounds.

Behind the walls of the monastery, you'll find  a few paths, a large orchard and various spots to sit in the grass. The orchard is behind the basilica and takes a little extra effort to find, but it's a very nice walk.

Aside from the greenery around, there are a few ruins that are just kind of cool. Old chapels and buildings give the area a sense of history that's not seen nowadays in Prague.

But our favorite part of the gardens is the long hedged pathway shown here. It's quite magical or at least we think so.

The gardens of the abbey (behind the basilica) are open daily, but times are restricted to early hours in the morning (5:30 - 8:00) and hours in the evening (17:00 - 20:30).

Adalbert Hotel

Looking for Prague accommodation with character? Well the Adalbert Hotel is just that.

It sits just across from St. Margaret's Basilica and has simple, elegant taste. Most visitors don't even realize there's a hotel here - that's how understated it is.

In fact, we've often thought it would be nice to treat ourselves with a stay here. It's completely hidden from the outside world and has a retreat-like character about it.

Klašterní Senk Restaurant

There's a wonderful Czech restaurant at the abbey. It's the kind of place that will surprise you and reward you for making the trip out here.

They serve fresh, tasty Czech food, but not ordinary pub grub. This is good stuff with a decent choice beers and wine. It's a casual place so the family is welcome too.

We particularly like the outdoor seating when the weather is good. Come for just a beer or even soup served in bread. Yummy!

Where is Brevnov Abbey?

Well, the abbey is in Břevnov, where else!

Břevnov is a small quiet district of Prague just past the castle district of Hradčany.  It's easy to find via tram 25 or 22. The tram stop is Břevnovský Klášter.

You'll see the abbey from the tram stop - just cross one street and you're there.

When you head back to the tram, you might consider stopping at the classic beer garden U Kastanu. Grab a beer and relax with us locals on one of many wooden tables. (See map.)

This pub is famous for being the place where the Communism party of Czechoslovakia was founded. Whew, what were they drinking?!

Other Hidden Prague Sights

If you liked this page on Brevnov Abbey, check out some of our other hidden Prague sights here...

The Wallenstein Garden is a fantastic place to explore. It's hidden behind the metro Malostranska and is a great place to stop and just sit on a bench. Heck, you might even catch a free outdoor concert there.

Care for a romantic stroll? New World Street is close to the castle, but looks like it belongs in an old village.

Pisecka Brana, or Gate to Pisek, is another unique sort of place that gets no attention. You can stop by for a peek and have a coffee on your way to the castle.

Prague's Hunger Wall obviously has a strange name. The story and sheer size of this project is remarkable. Visit on your way to the top of Petrin.

The castle's Prague Castle's Stag Moat is one of our all-time favorite places to get some nature without leaving the city. And, guess what? Almost no one comes here!