Klášter Světce Monastery
The ruins of the monastery with a long and stormy history stand in the Svetch near Tachova. The old church from 1427, which, long before the monastery was established, served the faithful, but later became the core of the monastery complex. The Hussites damaged it during their campaigns, and when a religious community was created on site, it was full of historical paradoxes and legal disputes.
The monastery was founded in the difficult times of the Thirty Years' War, when a fearless soldier Johann Filip Husmann z Namedy and his wife Amalia, born of Donín, held the manor. They donated considerable assets to the order of pauses - forty thousand gold for operation and another ten thousand for construction. In return, they were to pass the sentence with their intercession to the Imperial Court in Vienna. However, the dispute arose with the cruisers whose ownership of the seemingly abandoned land was not realised until later. The Archbishop of Prague Arnošt Harrach himself had to deal with it. Formal handover of костела took place on 15 August 1641. The Paulans then set out to build a monastery on untold land. The construction of the monastery was probably driven by Prague builder Šimon Panek Panetius and lasted from 1656 to 1669. The monastery church came a few years later, from 1671 to 1674, for the new owner of the estate of John Philip, Count Losy of Losinthal. The temple with two towers was created under the supervision of Italian architect Giovanni Domenico Orsi and was dedicated to Fourteen Holy Helpers.
In the long decades of peaceful activity of the paulans, the monastery became part of the landscape. In February 1729, however, a serious test hit him - a fire after which he was repaired, and the tower was rebuilt in 1756. The real break came in May 1787, when the Paulan community was abolished by the Yosephin regime. Thirteen religious people retired and the monastery became the hands of local nobleman Josef Mikuláš Windischgrätze, who made him the seat of officials and had the church converted into a warehouse.
In the mid-nineteenth century General Alfred Windischgrätz tried to change things. In the years 1857 to 1861 he planned a monastery convention and a church radically rebuilt into an exhibition romantic chateau. He also built a nearby horseman. However, the project was too expensive. When the general died in 1862, his son lost interest in completing it and the construction remained unaccounted for. At the end of World War II, she was burned by a fire.
Today there are romantic ruins protected as a cultural monument. They are a testament to the fate of the order of paulans, to the ambitions of the great landowner family, and to how history takes the last word. The visitor can browse through the rest of the building, which was supposed to be the seat of prayer, office and chateau, but it became one of the most impressive reminders of failure to complete the big plans.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 1641
- Formal handover of the church to the pauses after settlement of the dispute with the order of the cruisers.
- 1656-1669
- Construction of a monastery convention led by architect Simon Panek.
- 1671-1674
- Construction of the monastery church Fourteen Holy Helpers by Italian architect Giovanni Domenico Orsim.
- 1787
- The abrogation of the monastery and the transition to ownership of the Windischgrätz family.
- 1857-1861
- The failed attempt by General Alfred Windischgrätz to turn the monastery into a chateau.
Architectural development
The monastery was built in 1656-1669 as a convention with an early Baroque plan. The Church of the Fourteen Holy Helpers was created later (1671-1674) as a central building with Italian influence. In the 18th century there were minor repairs after the fire of 1729. In the 19th century the monastery was adapted to the seat of officials and later experimentally converted to a chateau, which led to its partial destruction. The remains are mainly made of stone and bricks, with preserved vaults and frescoes.
Historical events
- 1427
- Damage to previous Hussite Church during Hussite Wars.
- 1641
- Formal handover of the church to the pauses after settlement of the dispute with the cruisers.
- 1787
- The abolition of the Paralan monastery as part of the Josephine reforms.
- 1862
- The demise of plans to rebuild the monastery into a chateau after the death of General Alfred Windischgrätz.
Owners
1641-1669 – Paulan Order; 1669-1787 – Paulan Order (until cancellation); 1787-1857 – Rod Windischgrätz; 1857-1862 – General Alfred Windischgrätz (unsuccessful reconstruction); since 1862 – Rod Windischgrätz (basic maintenance).
Points of interest
- The church in the monastery was built in 1427, but later became the core of the monastery complex.
- The Hussites damaged the church during their campaigns before the religious community was formed here.
- The monastery was founded at the time of the Thirty Years' War when it was founded by Johann Filip Husmann z Namedy and his wife Amálie z Donína.
- The Paulans were given 10,000 gold coins to build the monastery, and they had secured a trip to the Imperial Court in Vienna.
- The monastery church was dedicated to Fourteen Holy Helpers and its construction lasted from 1671 to 1674.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
In Světcích near Tachov, the ruins of a Pauline monastery have been preserved along with the Church of the Fourteen Holy Helpers. The monastery was founded in the second half of the 17th century. However, its present appearance was determined by an unsuccessful attempt to rebuild it into a magnificent castle. The romantic ruins are protected as a cultural monument.
The church stood here long before the monastery. Sources differ on its earliest history. What is certain is that in 1427 it was damaged by the Hussites.
The monastery was founded during the Thirty Years' War by the then holders of the Tachov estate. They were the military adventurer Colonel Johann Filip Husmann from Namedy and his wife Amálie, née from Donín. According to a donation letter, they gave the Pauline order 40,000 gold coins and another 10,000 gold coins for construction. They also added land around the dilapidated church so that a monastery could be built here for 12 monks. The Paulines were chosen because they had interceded for Husmann at the imperial court in Vienna and he was pardoned.
The land, which appeared abandoned, actually belonged to the Knights of the Cross. The dispute between the two orders had to be resolved by the Prague Archbishop Ernest Harrach, who was also the Grand Master of the Knights of the Cross. The church was formally handed over to the Pauline provincial Faggius on August 15, 1641. The dispute nevertheless dragged on into the 1650s, so the Paulines built their monastery outside the disputed property. They built it between 1656 and 1669. The construction was probably directed by the Prague builder Šimon Pánek, also referred to as Panetius or Pucina.
The church was built between 1671 and 1674, when the estate belonged to Count Jan Filip Losy from Losinthal. The two-towered church was probably designed by the Italian architect Giovanni Domenico Orsi. The Paulines later made peace with the Knights of the Cross and handed them the old church. It was apparently demolished and served as building material.
In February 1729 the monastery was damaged by fire. It was then repaired, only the right tower was restored in 1756. In May 1787 the community was dissolved during Josephine reforms and thirteen monks went into retirement.
The area was acquired by Josef Mikuláš Windischgrätz. The church served as a warehouse and his officials were housed in the monastery. His descendant, General Alfred Windischgrätz, attempted between 1857 and 1861 to rebuild the convent into a splendid romantic castle and at the same time built a riding school nearby. After his death in 1862 his son did not continue the expensive construction. The castle was thus never completed and at the end of the Second World War it was moreover destroyed by fire.
Tips for visitors
Best time to visit the monastery Světce is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the ruin is not as crowded as in the summer months. In winter the monastery is quieter, but some parts can be closed due to snow conditions.
It is recommended to arrive by car because public transport to Světce is not very common. The location is also available by a comfortable route from Pilsen, but the current connection is good to check in the traffic search engine before the journey.
When visiting, wear a comfortable shoe because the road on the ruins is often uneven and stone. It is also convenient to take a map or GPS with you, because some parts of the monastery may be less familiar. If you plan to take pictures, don't forget the sunglasses - the light on the vaults and frescoes is the most beautiful morning or evening when the rays shine directly into the interior.
From the outside is an interesting view of the remains of monastery buildings and surrounding nature. It is recommended to take pictures in favourable light, for example at sunrise or sunset, when reflected in stone elements.
In the vicinity of the monastery Světce is especially worth visiting the castle Tachov, which is located about ten kilometers northeast. It is a Baroque chateau with a rich history and a nearby park that is ideal for walking. Another interesting thing is the Church of St. Nicholas in Tachov, a Gothic church with later modifications, which is an important dominant of the city. Both places are easily accessible by car or local transport.
For families with children the visit of the monastery Světce is interesting thanks to the possibility of discovering historical ruins and nature. Children can see the remains of the monastery buildings and in the surroundings you can find places for short walks. In the vicinity, such as the Tachov Chateau, cultural events or tours are often organised, which can also be interesting for children. It is also recommended to visit the local playground or parks available in the vicinity.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
Religious buildings are usually open mainly during services; at other times a visit is normally arranged with the parish or the operator. We have not verified specific times.
Where is the monument?
Location: Světce 1, 34701 Tachov, Plzeňský kraj. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 24666/4-1684).
For kids
Imagine going back to the past and finding yourself in the middle of a beautiful green and sparkling stream. This is Klášter Světce, a cozy place where people came looking for peace and inspiration.
It was like in a game when you imagined you were in the past. Who lived here? Monks and monks who tried to be close to God. They built a monastery to pray and study. There were many books and beautiful art.
Businesses nearby
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Themed route
Thematic cruise route: Klášter Světce and surroundings
1.Klášter Světce * Main destination - monastery * - Here is a unique complex of Benedict monastery with rich history since the 12th century. Visitors will look at Gothic and Baroque architecture, garden complex and exposition dedicated to monastery life.
2. Castle Tachov * Baroque chateau * - Interesting stop about 10 km from the monastery Světce. The chateau with historical core and surrounding park offers a view of regional history and nature. Ideal for relaxing and walking.
3. Church of St. Nicholas in Tachov * Gothic church * - Cca 10 km from the monastery Světce is located an important church with later modifications. Its architecture and history are closely linked to the development of the city of Tachov and the region.
* Recommended order: * Start at the monastery Světce, proceed to Castle Tachov and end with a visit to St. Nicholas Church. The route is approximately 20 km long and suitable for a day trip.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring Klášter Světce offers a unique atmosphere of changing weather in spring months, where sunny days and rainy moments take turns. The ruins of the monastery, illuminated by soft spring light, gain a mysterious touch, especially in the morning, when the sun is reflected from wet stone walls. Nature wakes up from winter sleep around the monastery - first flowers bloom, green trees grow, and birds sing in the surroundings. The ideal time to visit is from April to May, when there are fewer tourists than in the summer months. Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended to protect against sudden showers, and visit in the morning when the light is most beautiful. Spring migration of birds can also be observed in the surroundings, which adds another layer of magic to the monastery.
Summer In the summer months, especially in July and August, the monastery Světce attracts visitors with its dramatic contrast between the hot sun and the shadow of stone ruins. The warm noon creates a game of light and shadow on the walls of the monastery that highlights its historical structure. The surrounding area is green and full of life, but there can also be a larger number of tourists, especially in the main summer season. It is recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. Suitable is light but protective clothing, hat and plenty of water because there is no shadow around the monastery. If you go for a walk in the surrounding fields, don't forget the insect repellent.
Autumn The autumn visit of the monastery Světce brings the impression of melancholic beauty, when the leaves of the trees turn into golden and red shades and the sun rays create warm, golden glare on the ruins of the monastery. The air is clean and cold, which gives the place a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. In September and October, the monastery is often abandoned, allowing it to explore its surroundings in peace. It is recommended to wear warmer clothes because evenings can be cold, and comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. The best time to visit is in the afternoon when the sun shines directly on the ruins and creates interesting shadows. At this time of the year you can also observe birds preparing for the winter period.
Winter Winter visit to the monastery Světce is an experience for those who love peace and mysterious atmosphere. The snow covers the ruins of the monastery and surrounding landscape, which creates a fairy tale impression, especially in December and January. Freezing air and a quiet environment provide a special charm to the place, especially in the morning, when the sun is reflected from the snow and creates shiny reflections on the walls of the monastery. In winter, the monastery is often abandoned, allowing it to explore its surroundings without disturbing crowds. It is recommended that warm, layered clothes that protect against frost, and firm shoes, as the paths can be slippery. Due to shorter days, the best time to visit the afternoon is when the light is still sufficient. In advent time, the monastery also offers the possibility of quiet rest and meditation in nature.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
View from the area
This animation was generated by artificial intelligence from a real photograph of the surroundings. The motion and details are not real footage of the location.
Atmosphere of the place
This atmospheric visualisation of the place and period was generated by artificial intelligence. It is not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Sovicka169 / CC BY-SA 3.0, rozlišení zvýšeno umělou inteligencí — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
Location on the map
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