Step into the rich tapestry of Prague’s beer legacy on this captivating Beer & Baroque walking tour. Trace the history of Benedictine monastic breweries, explore the iconic Břevnov and Strahov Monasteries, and uncover the pivotal role these hallowed institutions played in cultivating and preserving Czech beer culture over the centuries. Explore the time-honored brewing processes, sample local brews, and marvel at the Baroque splendor of the Strahov Monastery’s renowned library. This unique tour promises a highbrow exploration that will leave you thirsty for more.
Key Points
- A 4-hour walking tour that explores the rich beer brewing traditions of Prague, with guided visits to the Břevnov Monastery and Strahov Monastery.
- Visitors can learn about the Benedictine monks’ role in preserving and advancing beer culture in the region for centuries.
- The tour offers an option to tour the baroque library at Strahov Monastery, providing an exclusive behind-the-ropes experience for bibliophiles and history enthusiasts.
- Břevnov Monastery, founded in 993 AD, is the oldest monastic brewery in Prague, allowing visitors to experience the time-honored brewing processes.
- Strahov Monastery, founded in 1143, has a brewing tradition dating back to the 14th century and features impressive Baroque architecture and a library with over 200,000 volumes.
Tour Overview
This 4-hour walking tour takes visitors to two of Prague’s oldest monastic breweries, offering an in-depth exploration of the city’s rich beer brewing traditions.
Guests will learn about the Benedictine monks who’ve lived and worked at the Břevnov Monastery since 993, and visit historic sites with an expert guide. The tour includes the Roman crypt at Břevnov Monastery, nearly 1,000 years old, and the Church of St. Margaret.
At the Strahov Monastery, founded in 1143, visitors can see evidence of brewing dating back to the 14th century. With an option to tour the baroque library, this tour promises to transport guests back in time, immersing them in Prague’s storied beer history.
Monastic Brewing Traditions
Though beer brewing has long been an integral part of Czech culture, its origins can be traced back to the Benedictine monks who’ve inhabited the Břevnov Monastery since the 10th century.
Across the centuries, these religious communities played a vital role in preserving and advancing the country’s renowned beer-making traditions. The monks not only cultivated the necessary crops and ingredients, but also developed specialized techniques and equipment to brew high-quality beer.
This monastic brewing legacy can still be experienced today, as visitors can explore the historic Břevnov and Strahov Monasteries and witness the time-honored processes that continue to shape Czech beer culture.
- Benedictine monks have brewed beer at Břevnov Monastery since 993 AD
- Strahov Monastery has evidence of brewing dating back to the 14th century
- Monasteries played a crucial role in preserving and advancing Czech beer traditions
Břevnov Monastery Highlights
The Břevnov Monastery, founded in 993 AD, offers visitors a glimpse into its centuries-old brewing heritage.
Within the monastery’s walls, guests can explore the Roman crypt that’s nearly 1,000 years old and marvel at the Church of St. Margaret.
This historic site provides an opportunity to explore the brewing traditions of the Benedictine monks who’ve called the monastery home since the 10th century.
Visitors can opt to sample beers at the on-site brewery, gaining a firsthand appreciation for the monastic brewing legacy that has endured for over a millennium.
The Břevnov Monastery stands as a testament to Prague’s rich beer-making history, inviting travelers to step back in time and experience this living legacy.
Strahov Monastery Highlights
Founded in 1143, the historic Strahov Monastery boasts a long-standing brewing tradition dating back to the 14th century.
Visitors can explore the monastery’s grand Baroque architecture and marvel at the impressive library, home to over 200,000 volumes, including rare texts.
For those seeking a deeper dive, an option to go behind the ropes at the library offers a chance to truly take in the monastery’s rich cultural heritage.
The monastery’s highlights include:
- Exploring the centuries-old brewing history
- Admiring the magnificent Baroque library
- Discovering rare manuscripts and ancient texts
Strahov Monastery Library Tour
For those seeking a deeper exploration of the Strahov Monastery’s cultural treasures, the library tour offers unparalleled access to its impressive collection of over 200,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts and ancient texts.
Visitors will be taken behind the ropes and treated to an up-close look at the monastery’s baroque-style library, one of the most beautiful in the world.
Led by an expert guide, the tour delves into the library’s rich history and the significance of its priceless works.
With a reservation fee of 2000 CZK and an additional 700 CZK per person, this exclusive experience is a must for bibliophiles and history enthusiasts alike.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the tour package is a historian guide.
Alcoholic beverages and optional beer flights at the monasteries’ breweries are additional expenses.
Visitors interested in the behind-the-ropes tour of the Strahov Monastery Library must pay a 2000 CZK reservation fee, plus a 700 CZK per person fee to access the exclusive areas.
The tour isn’t recommended for:
- Travelers with back problems
- Pregnant individuals
- Those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns
The walking tour is also not wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation.
Meeting and Drop-off Details
The tour begins at the Bagel Lounge Malostranská, located at Letenská 118/1, 118 00 Praha 1-Malá Strana, with the meeting point being this address.
Participants will then explore the historic monasteries and breweries before the tour concludes in central Prague.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.
Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
Tour Considerations
This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Prague’s centuries-old brewing traditions and the historic monasteries that have shaped the city’s cultural heritage.
Given the tour’s focus on historic sites and beer tastings, there are a few important considerations for potential travelers.
First, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility issues may have difficulty.
Second, the tour may not be suitable for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers.
Finally, the optional behind-the-ropes tour at Strahov Monastery Library has an additional fee of 700 CZK per person.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of the Walking Tour?
The walking tour lasts 4 hours. It takes participants to two of Prague’s oldest monastic breweries, where they can explore the origins of the city’s beer brewing traditions with an expert guide.
What Is the Cost of the Beer Samples During the Tour?
The cost of the beer samples is not included in the tour price. Visitors must pay separately for beer flights at the Břevnov Monastery Brewery and for the beer at the Strahov Monastery Brewery.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Monasteries?
Photography is generally allowed inside the monasteries, but visitors should check with the tour guide or monastery staff for any restrictions. Some areas, like the Strahov Monastery Library, may have limited photo access.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?
The tour can be customized for private groups. The tour operator offers private tours with a flexible itinerary and group size. Customers can work with the operator to tailor the experience to their specific needs and interests.
Do the Monasteries Have Any Age Restrictions for Visitors?
The monasteries do not have any age restrictions for visitors. People of all ages are welcome to join the tour and explore the historic sites. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children or those with certain health conditions.
Recap
The ‘Beer & Baroque: A Highbrow Brew Walking Tour’ offers a unique chance to explore Prague’s rich beer brewing heritage.
Visitors can explore the time-honored monastic brewing traditions, sample local beers, and discover the pivotal role monasteries played in preserving Czech beer culture over the centuries.
It’s a must-do experience for anyone interested in the intertwined history of beer and architecture in this historic city.
