Strahov Monastery
The Strahov Monastery is a monastery located on the territory of the capital of the Czech Republic in one of its historical districts - Hradcany. This Prague architectural monument belongs to the ancient monasteries of the Order of the Premonstratensian monarchs. It was built in 1140-1143 thanks to Vladislav II, but the idea of the magnificent building belongs to Jindřich Zdik, who belonged to the Archdiocese of Olomouc.
As for the name of the monastery itself, there is a claim that it comes from the word "guardian". This was due to the outpost located here, which protected the approaches to the territory of Prague Castle.
The Strahovsky monastery endlessly changed its appearance, and there were constant alterations. From birth, the temple had a wooden appearance, but a little later strong stone fortifications were erected here, which had a Romanesque style. In 1258, the monastery suffered greatly in a fire caused by a monk who fell asleep with an unburned candle. A building resembling the Early Gothic style was built on the site of the burnt-down monastery. Later, the building changed its appearance several times, but by the end of the 17th century, the monastery acquired the appearance in which it is represented today. It was endowed with a wonderful Baroque style of architecture by the Italian architect A. Lurago.
The history of the monastery is quite rich and sad. Its location, almost at the very heart of the country, has the opportunity to participate in the most important historical events of those times. The Thirty Years' War, as well as the Hussite wars, could not bypass the Strahov Monastery. He was attacked more than once by the troops of the French and Russian armies. At the end of the 18th century, the monastery found itself on the verge of closure, because the emperor created a decree that called for the closure of all monasteries that did not benefit society. During these times, the Strahov monastery was protected by a public library, which was opened within its walls.
Today, the Strahov Monastery in Prague houses a museum that houses Russian literature. There is also an excellent art gallery. On the territory of the monastery, a miniature museum is on display, wonderful restaurants and a hotel are located here, surrounded by a magnificent garden.
