Basilica of the Assumption, Strahov Monastery
The Basilica of the Assumption, Strahov Monastery is a significant religious and historical site located in Prague, Czech Republic. Founded in 1143, it has been a center of spiritual life for the Premonstratensian order and has undergone numerous reconstructions and expansions throughout its long history, notably including the renowned Strahov Library.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1143 by Jindřich Zdík, Bishop John of Prague, and Vladislaus II, Duke of Bohemia.
- ›The original structure included a Romanesque basilica, with subsequent rebuilding and renovations.
- ›The monastery was plundered during the Hussite Wars in 1420 and by Swedish troops in the 17th century.
- ›The remains of Saint Norbert of Xanten, founder of the Premonstratensian order, were transferred and reinterred here in 1627.
- ›It houses the Strahov Library, comprising the Theological Hall (completed 1679) and the Philosophical Hall (completed 1779), which together hold over 200,000 volumes.
- ›The basilica and monastery were returned to the Premonstratensian Order after the fall of communism in 1989 and have since undergone significant restoration.
Romanesque, Baroque, Classical
Remains of Saint Norbert of Xanten
Premonstratensians
About Basilica of the Assumption, Strahov Monastery
The Basilica of the Assumption, Strahov Monastery, located in Prague, Czech Republic, is a historic Premonstratensian abbey with a rich spiritual and architectural heritage.
History and Significance
Founded in 1143, the monastery's origins trace back to Bishop Jindřich Zdík's vision for a regular canonry in Prague. After an initial unsuccessful attempt, the Premonstratensian order was invited from Germany, and construction began with a Romanesque basilica at its core. The monastery has endured significant challenges throughout its history, including fires, plundering during the Hussite Wars in 1420, and later by Swedish troops during the Thirty Years' War. These events necessitated numerous reconstructions and renovations, leading to the assimilation of various architectural styles.
A pivotal moment in the monastery's history was the transfer and reinterment of the remains of Saint Norbert of Xanten, the founder of the Premonstratensian order, in 1627. This event cemented the basilica's importance as a pilgrimage site.
The Strahov Library
One of the most renowned features of Strahov Monastery is its magnificent library. The Theological Hall was completed in 1679 under Abbot Jeroným Hirnheim, and later, in 1779, Abbot Václav Mayer oversaw the construction of the Philosophical Hall in a Classical style. Together, these halls house the Strahov Library, which contains over 200,000 volumes, including thousands of manuscripts and early printed books. The library is celebrated for its preserved collections and its richly adorned ceilings, featuring frescoes by notable artists.
Modern Era
After being taken over by the communist regime in 1950 and transformed into the Memorial of National Literature, the monastery and its library were returned to the Premonstratensian Order following the Velvet Revolution in 1989. Since then, extensive and costly reconstruction efforts have been undertaken to restore the basilica, library, and other monastic buildings, ensuring their preservation for future generations. The site continues to function as an active religious institution and a significant cultural and historical landmark.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Strahov Monastery founded?
Strahov Monastery was founded in 1143 by Jindřich Zdík, Bishop John of Prague, and Vladislaus II, Duke of Bohemia. The initial construction of the monastery and its Romanesque basilica began shortly thereafter.
What is the significance of the Strahov Library?
The Strahov Library is one of the world's most valuable and preserved libraries, containing over 200,000 volumes, including numerous manuscripts and first prints. It features two magnificent halls, the Theological Hall and the Philosophical Hall, adorned with frescoes.
Are there any important relics housed at Strahov Monastery?
Yes, the remains of Saint Norbert of Xanten, the founder of the Premonstratensian order, are interred in the abbey church. His remains were transferred from Magdeburg in 1627.
What architectural styles can be found at Strahov Monastery?
The monastery exhibits a history of architectural development, starting with a Romanesque basilica. Later periods saw reconstructions and additions in Baroque and Classical styles, particularly evident in the library halls.
Has the monastery always been in continuous operation?
No, the monastery has faced periods of significant damage and decline, notably during the Hussite Wars in the 15th century and plundering by Swedish troops in the 17th century. It was also taken over by the communist regime in 1950 before being returned to the Premonstratensians after 1989.
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