Why Visit the Meditation Garden in Plzeň?

The Meditation Garden is a masterpiece of landscape design. It was created by Luboš Hruška, a former political prisoner. He spent years turning a former fruit orchard into this sanctuary. The garden features 70 sandstone statues depicting the Stations of the Cross. It is a powerful tribute to those who suffered under totalitarian regimes.

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as incredibly calm. It is one of the most beautiful secret gardens and courtyards in Plzeň today. You can walk through the winding paths and admire the rare conifers. The Chapel of St. Maximilian Kolbe sits at the heart of the garden. This small building adds to the spiritual feel of the site.

The garden is located in the Doudlevce district. It is easily accessible from the city center. Many people visit to escape the crowds of the main square. It is a perfect spot for photography or quiet contemplation. Make sure to check the seasonal opening hours before you go.

10 Best Plzeň Hidden Gems Sightseeing Spots

If you are looking for more than just the brewery, these spots are for you. Plzeň is full of architectural wonders and historical secrets. Here are the top ten locations to add to your itinerary.

1. Name: Meditation Garden (Garden of Victims of Evil) Type: Sight/Experience Why go: To experience a profound sense of peace and history. Best for: Solo travelers and couples. Where: Doudlevce district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee (~50 CZK). Tip: Visit in late spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
2. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: Architecture Why go: See world-famous modernist design inside private apartments. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Various locations near the center. Time: 1 hour per tour. Cost: Moderate (booking required). Tip: Book your tickets weeks in advance as tours are small.
3. Name: Great Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the city center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low. Tip: Check the official city tourism board for concert schedules here.
4. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the liberation of the city by the US Army in 1945. Best for: Military history fans. Where: Pobřežní street. Time: 1-1.5 hours. Cost: Low. Tip: Look for the original artifacts donated by veterans.
5. Name: Pilsen Historical Underground Type: Experience Why go: Explore a 14th-century labyrinth of tunnels beneath the streets. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Veleslavínova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground even in summer.
6. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Get the best panoramic view of the entire Plzeň Region. Best for: Photographers. Where: Republic Square. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Low. Tip: Be ready for a long climb up narrow stairs.
7. Name: Puppet Museum Type: Museum Why go: Plzeň has a long tradition of puppetry. Best for: Families. Where: Republic Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Tip: Try the interactive puppet theater on the top floor.
8. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Activity Why go: Interactive exhibits and a 3D planetarium. Best for: Children and science fans. Where: Near the Škoda factory. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Great for a rainy day in Plzeň.
9. Name: Borský Park Type: Nature Why go: The largest park in the city, located near the Meditation Garden. Best for: Relaxation and walking. Where: Southern Plzeň. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Walk here after visiting the garden to clear your head.
10. Name: Chotěšov Abbey Type: Day trip Why go: A massive, mysterious monastery complex just outside the city. Best for: Urban explorers. Where: Chotěšov (20 mins by train). Time: Half-day. Cost: Low. Tip: Check for special evening tours during the summer.

Planning Your Visit to Plzeň

Most people visit Plzeň on a day trip from Prague. However, staying overnight allows you to see more. You can find many unusual places to visit in Plzeň center after the crowds leave. The city is very walkable and has great public transport. Trams and buses run frequently to all major districts.

When visiting the Meditation Garden, respect the quiet nature of the site. It is a place of mourning for many locals. Photography is allowed but should be done discreetly. Most sites accept cards, but keep some Czech Koruna for small entries. You can find more info on the national tourism board website.

Try to visit between April and October for the best weather. Winters can be cold, but the Christmas markets are charming. The garden is particularly beautiful in the morning light. Plan your route to include a mix of history and nature. This will give you a balanced view of this wonderful city.