The Royal Canonry of Premonstratensians

The Royal Canonry of Premonstratensians at Strahov is one of the oldest monasteries of the Premonstratensian Order in the world. It has been a working monastery practically ever since it was founded in 1143. Fire, the Hussite Wars, religious wars, and the Communists all failed to shut down this institution. Even when the members of the monastery were unable to live within its walls, they gathered wherever they could and nurtured the spirit of their House until they were able to return to the monastery complex.

Besides its spiritual services and abbey life, Strahov Abbey also plays a role in the cultural life of society. The famous Strahov Library and the reopened Strahov Picture Gallery are cultural institutions proving to the world that the Strahov Premonstratensians have always cared for the development of culture and education.

Strahov Monastery offers for the visitor two separate tours: Strahov Library and Strahov  Gallery.

Guide texts in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Japanese, Russian, etc., to be borrowed by visitors are available at library custodians.

From Tripadvisor.com reviews of the Royal Canonry of Premonstratensians at Strahov:

“Must visit“: This monastery has a great atmosphere and it is located close to the Prague castle. You can purchase a ticket and see the inside of the very old library with one of the oldest books. However, don’t be disappointed that they won’t let you walk inside the rooms, you can only peak an eye on it.

“Beautiful Libraries“: I understand that this is not for everybody, but we loved it. There are basically only two rooms to see and you have to wait in line to just get a few seconds to view and take photos, but it is worth it. The art in the libraries are incredibly beautiful. A downside to the Monastery is that it is away from other attractions, so it is a bit of a time commitment.