The Story of the Luboš Hruška Meditation Garden

The Luboš Hruška Meditation Garden has a powerful history. It was created by a former political prisoner. Luboš Hruška spent years in communist jails. He vowed to build a place of peace if he survived. He transformed a former fruit orchard into this stunning space. The garden is now a symbol of reconciliation and hope. It features twelve sandstone sculptures representing the Stations of the Cross. These works were created by Roman Podrázský. The atmosphere is deeply moving and serene. Visitors often feel a sense of calm here. It is a highlight of the Plzeň Region for many travelers. The site also includes a small chapel dedicated to Saint Maximilian Kolbe. This chapel adds to the spiritual weight of the area. It is a place where nature and art meet history.

10 Must-See Sights Near the Meditation Garden

Plzeň offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler. From historic churches to peaceful ponds, there is much to explore. This list highlights the best experiences near the Luboš Hruška Meditation Garden. Use these picks to build your perfect itinerary in 2026.

1. Name: Luboš Hruška Meditation Garden Type: Experience Why go: To experience a unique blend of history, art, and nature. Best for: Quiet reflection and history lovers. Where: Doudlevce district, southern Plzeň. Time: 1 to 2 hours. Cost: Small entrance fee (usually under 100 CZK). Getting there: Take bus number 30 or 21 from the city center. Tip: Visit in late spring to see the flowers in full bloom.
2. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: Iconic sight Why go: It features the tallest church spire in the Czech Republic. Best for: Panoramic city views and Gothic architecture. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the nave; paid for the tower. Getting there: A central walk from any downtown point. Tip: Look for peaceful visits in the early morning to avoid crowds.
3. Name: Great Synagogue Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe and very beautiful. Best for: Architecture fans and Jewish heritage. Where: Near the J.K. Tyl Theatre. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walking distance from the main square. Tip: Check out the beautiful interiors which often host concerts.
4. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Experience Why go: This is the birthplace of the world's most famous lager. Best for: Beer enthusiasts and industrial history. Where: U Prazdroje 7. Time: 2 to 3 hours. Cost: Higher than other sights; includes tasting. Getting there: Short walk from the main train station. Tip: Book your tour online in advance as they often sell out.
5. Name: Mlýnská strouha Type: Nature Why go: A romantic park area known as the "Venice of Plzeň." Best for: Couples and short walks. Where: Edge of the historic center. Time: 30 to 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Republic Square. Tip: Read this park guide to find the best photo spots.
6. Name: Bolevec Ponds Type: Nature/Day trip Why go: A series of historic ponds perfect for swimming and hiking. Best for: Families and outdoor fans. Where: Northern outskirts of Plzeň. Time: 3 to 4 hours. Cost: Free access to trails. Getting there: Take tram number 1 or 4 to the end. Tip: Follow the nature trails for a quiet forest escape.
7. Name: Chlum Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best bird's-eye view of the entire Plzeň basin. Best for: Hikers and photographers. Where: Doubravka district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Take a bus to Doubravka and walk up. Tip: The scenic hike through the woods is very refreshing.
8. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Indoor Why go: An interactive museum with hundreds of hands-on exhibits. Best for: Families with children. Where: Near the Škoda factory site. Time: 3 to 5 hours. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Trolleybus or a 15-minute walk from the center. Tip: Don't miss the 3D planetarium for an immersive space show.
9. Name: West Bohemian Museum Type: Museum Why go: It houses one of the largest collections of historical armor. Best for: History buffs and rainy days. Where: Kopeckého sady. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Use a visitors guide to see the highlights quickly.
10. Name: Lochotín Park Type: Nature Why go: A large landscape park with a historic colonnade. Best for: Long walks and relaxing. Where: Near the Plzeň Zoo. Time: 1 to 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram number 1 or 4. Tip: Visit during the autumn for stunning golden leaf displays.

Practical Tips for Visiting Plzeň in 2026

Planning your trip to Plzeň is easy with a few tips. The city is very walkable in the center. For the Luboš Hruška Meditation Garden, use public transit. The bus system is efficient and affordable. You can buy tickets via a mobile app or card. Most sights are open year-round. However, the garden has specific seasonal hours. It often closes during the winter months. Always check the official website before you travel. Spring and summer are the best times for greenery. Plzeň is also a great base for exploring the wider region. You can find more info on the Plzeň Region online. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. Many people speak English in tourist areas. However, learning a few Czech words is always appreciated. Enjoy the local food and the peaceful atmosphere of the parks.