Kladruby monastery

The Benedictine monastery in Kladruby has not been actively used as a monastery for more than 200 years. Sadly enough, it resulted in gradual destruction of the historically important construction that came into existence in 12th century, and is only slowly repaired nowadays.

The most impressive part of the monastery has undoubtedly been the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, which was rebuilt by the architect Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel in the baroque-gothic style at the beginning of 18th century. Santiny became an appreciated architect in his lifetime and his work is highly valued till nowadays.

Just see, among all other modifications, Santiny replaced previous two romanesque towers in the intersection with the dome, which must have been visually a very significant change…

As I mentioned in my previous post, when you visit the monastery, you can participate in a guided tour to see the insides of the monastery along with the church. There is not much original left but there are interactive expositions making you familiar with the life in such a monastery and walking inside feels calming.

But you know, there is so much in the premisses that still needs to be restored and lots of money would be needed to get rid of all the signs of dilapidation. But that is the problem, isn’t it? Nowadays people expect money to be invested in quite different matters, who needs to repair a huge abandoned monastery? Understandable and logical for sure… So the repairs continue in a much slower process than would be needed but at least the progress is there.

And because all old buildings have a secret or a tale, here is one as well. In the middle of the church, right under the middle of the cupola, you can see the star on the floor. It is said that in this place you get positively charged with energy… Would you believe that?

I haven’t tried but the truth is that I felt attracted to the place and took more photos than justified. An interesting spot for sure.