Plasy Monastery
Klášter Plasy
A Baroque Cistercian monastery built on marshland, famous for Santini's freestanding oval staircase and its underwater timber-pile foundations.
The monastery was founded in 1144. In the 18th century, Santini and Dientzenhofer rebuilt it as a grand Baroque complex. Because it stands on wetland, the monastery rests on more than 5,000 oak piles. To this day, groundwater is kept flowing to prevent the piles from rotting. Guided tours cover this unique underground water system and the self-supporting oval staircase that appears to float. The nearby royal chapel and the Metternich family crypt can also be visited. Admission costs about 150–250 CZK. It is about 25 km north of Plzeň and can be reached by train.
Opening hours
Apr–Oct, Tue–Sun; guided tours (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Plzeň Zoo & Botanical Garden
- Patton Memorial Pilsen
- Brewery Museum
- Plzeň Historical Underground
- St. Bartholomew Cathedral
- Republic Square & Town Hall
- Pilsner Urquell Brewery
- Puppet Museum