The Želiv Monastery completed the reconstruction of the main courtyard for more than 90 million

Želiv – The Želiv Monastery has completed the reconstruction of its main courtyard. The work was part of the restoration of the space, costing over 90 million crowns. The renovation will continue with adjustments to the ancillary areas, the abbot's garden, and a resting place by the Panský pond, which are expected to be completed next year in the autumn, said Petr Žák from the Resort Klášter Želiv to ČTK. The courtyard will be opened with a program for visitors on August 8. The canonry of the Premonstratensians received a European grant for the project from the IROP program.

The main area in front of the church has been transformed from a parking lot into a peaceful zone. "The area was in very poor condition. It was mostly compacted dirt. Whenever it rained, huge puddles and mud formed. When it was dry, it was extremely dusty here. This was the last part of the monastery, right in the middle, where no reconstruction had taken place, so it was kind of a blemish on the space," Žák said.

The area, separated from the church by a staircase, is now paved and enhanced by a fountain and stone benches. The space above the stairs has also been paved, where the statues of Cyril and Methodius returned after restoration in early July.

Archaeological research in front of the church uncovered the remains of a water reservoir depicted in the original views of the monastery. "It was relatively large. What was uncovered measures 15 by three meters," said Jiřina Zajíčková, the property manager of the canonry. Remains of the original wooden aqueduct were also found. According to Zajíčková, the ruins of buildings that once stood in the courtyard, several skeletal remains, and the foundations of a watchtower have been documented. Among the findings were also several modern weapons hidden near the gate pillar, presumably during World War I.

The monastery, where eight members of the Premonstratensian order live permanently, is interesting for tourists thanks to its hotel, restaurant, cultural events, and tours. According to Žák, up to 40,000 tourists visit annually. The monastery also develops spiritual activities, including multi-day retreats and daily masses.

According to Žák, the monastery plans to build additional parking spaces near the monument. The economic buildings with baroque stables, which supported the monastery, are also awaiting more extensive repairs and are currently preserved.

The opening of the courtyard next Saturday will be accompanied by a day-long presentation of archaeological finds. The left tower will exceptionally be accessible, offering a good view of the courtyard. The construction was also documented from the same spot, so visitors will be able to compare it with the photographs taken.

The Želiv Monastery was founded by Soběslav I in 1139, and the Premonstratensian order began its work there in 1149. The communists abolished the monastery in 1950 and established an internment camp for priests and religious, later it became a psychiatric hospital. The Premonstratensians regained the site in 1991 and are gradually renovating it. Since 2010, the monastery has been a national cultural monument.