Discover Zbraslav

Zbraslav has several distinct historical focal points: the history of the castle, Havlín Hill and the Husův sbor. If you are looking for a hotel in Zbraslav, these themes can help you decide whether the town suits a trip with a cultural and historical focus. The Way of St. James adds a tangible pilgrimage connection to these options. In Zbraslav, architectural history, religious heritage and a pilgrimage route come together in different ways.

Castle history and park

Zbraslav Castle was originally a Cistercian monastery, founded by King Václav II in 1292. Its foundation and its designation as a national cultural monument in 1995 are two clearly dated points of reference in its history. The castle park adds a different perspective to the architectural history: a promenade terrace above an arm of the Berounka has been preserved, while other parts of the park were landscaped in the English style. The park also contains a sculpture collection belonging to the Národní galerie. The monastery’s origins, heritage protection, park design and sculptures thus stand alongside one another as different aspects of the castle surroundings. For planning your visit, it is important to note that the castle’s interior is currently not open to the public. Check access to the interior again before visiting.

Havlín and the glass altar

Havlín Hill is an archaeological monument. It is easily accessible directly via several routes from Zbraslavské náměstí, providing a specific starting point for planning your visit. Karlův stánek, a brick viewing pavilion, stands on the hill. The glass altar, Skleněný oltář, is also on Havlín: it was created by the artist Vladimíra Tesařová and installed in December 2021 in the former ossuary by St. Gallus Church. The altar can be viewed from outside through a barred window during cemetery opening hours. As these hours may change, check them before your visit.

The Husův sbor

The Husův sbor represents a different architectural history. In 1938–1939, a former manor granary was converted into the Husův sbor based on a design by architect Stanislav Vachata. The tower is 30 metres high; its upper section forms an octagon with a symbolic chalice. Inside is a portable Renaissance altar, originally made for the monastery Church of St. James in Zbraslav. The granary’s conversion makes the building’s history tangible, while the tower’s shape and the altar provide specific details about the building.

The Way of St. James and its pilgrimage connection

The Way of St. James follows the Vltava River to Zbraslav and passes through the town, with a stop at the local Church of St. James the Greater. The Zbraslav parish is happy to provide a church stamp for pilgrims heading to Compostela. The route, the church stop and the stamp service give pilgrims specific connections to the town. If you plan to get the stamp, check the parish’s latest information, as service details may change.

The historical focal points also differ in perspective: the castle and park combine monastic origins with landscape design and sculptures; Havlín brings together an archaeological monument and a single work of art; and the Husův sbor makes a building’s conversion and details of a religious structure tangible. These differences can help you weigh up your interests for your stay.

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