Porta coeli Convent

Porta Coeli Convent in Předklášteří, just outside Tišnov, is one of the most important early Gothic monuments in the Czech Republic. Set in the valley of the Svratka River in the South Moravian Region, this Cistercian convent has been a place of monastic life for nearly eight centuries.

Who founded Porta Coeli?

The convent was founded in 1233 by Queen Constance of Hungary, granddaughter of Raynald of Châtillon and widow of the Bohemian king Ottokar I. She built the convent with the backing of her sons - Margrave Přemysl of Moravia and King Wenceslaus I - both of whom supported her plans. Constance was later buried within the convent walls, which makes the site not just a religious foundation but also the resting place of its founder.

What architectural style does the convent represent?

The core of the complex was built in the Burgundian Cistercian Gothic style, still regarded as one of the most valuable examples of early Gothic architecture in Central Europe. Over the following centuries the convent was extended with numerous Baroque additions, so today's structure combines austere medieval stonework with later, more ornamented layers.

What is there to see at Porta Coeli?

The convent buildings, mostly arranged in two-wing sections, are grouped around three rectangular courtyards - a cloister (paradise) courtyard, a so-called "slab courtyard," and a former bleaching yard. The most recognizable feature of the whole complex is the west portal of the convent church: its richly decorated tympanum and sculptural ornamentation are considered unique within Central European Gothic art, often compared by scholars to the portals of the great French cathedrals.

Is the convent still an active religious site?

Yes - Porta Coeli remains the only active female Cistercian convent in the Czech Republic, which sets it apart from many other medieval monastic foundations in the region that today serve purely as museums. Part of the site, specifically the interiors of the Baroque former provostry building, is open to visitors through the Podhorácké Museum, which presents permanent exhibitions and seasonal displays covering the history of the region and the convent itself.

Heritage status

Given its exceptional historical and architectural value, the convent is listed as a national monument of the Czech Republic. Its location - in the scenic Svratka valley near Tišnov - makes it an accessible day-trip destination from Brno and other towns in South Moravia.

Frequently asked questions

When was Porta Coeli founded? The convent was founded in 1233 by Queen Constance of Hungary.

Where exactly is the convent located? In Předklášteří, right next to Tišnov, in the South Moravian Region, in the valley of the Svratka River.

What is the convent's most valuable architectural feature? The west portal of the convent church, with its richly decorated tympanum, regarded as a unique example of Central European Gothic art.

Are nuns still living at the convent today? Yes, Porta Coeli is currently the only active female Cistercian convent in the Czech Republic.

Who is buried at the convent? Its founder, Queen Constance of Hungary, widow of King Ottokar I.