Opatská zahrada

Opatská zahrada (the Abbot's Garden) is a small, intimate garden attached to Strahov Monastery in Prague, founded in 1613 on the initiative of Abbot Kašpar z Questenberka. Covering only around 0.2 hectares, it has served for centuries as a representative space for the monastery's abbots — a place to receive guests while enjoying sweeping views over the city below the Strahov hill.

Where exactly is it located?

The garden lies in Prague 6, in the Hradčany cadastral district, at Strahovské nádvoří. It borders the buildings of the Royal Canonry of Premonstratensians at Strahov on the eastern side, running alongside the monastery wall. Thanks to this position, the garden's terrace has long offered — and still offers — views across Prague, which was one of its main appeals from the very beginning.

What is the history behind this garden?

The garden's story begins in the early 17th century: in 1613, Abbot Kašpar z Questenberka decided to establish it. Over the following decades it was gradually reshaped and embellished. A significant contribution came from sub-prior Amand Fabius, who oversaw new plantings, including walnut trees and even heat-loving sweet chestnuts — an unusual choice for Prague's climate at the time.

The garden is also linked to the construction of a new abbot's residence in 1625, with the surrounding greenery shaped in connection with that project. The garden additionally contains one of the fountains originally brought from Břevnov Monastery, underscoring its importance within the wider monastic complex.

Is the garden a protected monument?

Yes. Together with the entire complex of the Royal Canonry of Premonstratensians at Strahov, Opatská zahrada has been listed as a national cultural monument of the Czech Republic since 1989. It stands as one of many testaments to the historical significance of Strahov Hill, which has been one of Prague's most important spiritual and cultural centers for centuries.

How is the garden used today?

Today, part of the former abbot's garden operates as a seasonal garden restaurant, open during the summer months. Visitors can sit at a table overlooking the rooftops and towers of Prague, making it a popular stop for those exploring Strahov — alongside the much larger and better-known Velká strahovská zahrada on the other side of the monastery.

Is the whole garden open to visitors?

Not all of Opatská zahrada is accessible to tourists on the same terms as the neighboring monastery gardens. Part of the grounds remains more private and tied to the day-to-day life of the monastery, while the section with the viewing terrace and restaurant garden is open seasonally to guests.

Frequently asked questions

When was Opatská zahrada founded? It was founded in 1613 on the initiative of Abbot Kašpar z Questenberka.

Where is the garden located? At Strahov Monastery in Prague 6 (Hradčany), on the eastern side of the monastery buildings.

What can visitors do there today? During summer, part of the garden operates as a restaurant terrace with views over Prague.

Is the garden a protected monument? Yes, since 1989 it has been part of the monastery complex listed as a Czech national cultural monument.