Český Krumlov Monasteries as a vibrant part of town’s culture scene.
About this good practice
Founded in 1350 by Kateřina of Rožmberk and her four sons, the dual monastery of Český Krumlov housed the Minorites and Poor Clares, becoming a key religious and cultural center. The Poor Clares Monastery was dissolved in 1782 under the Josephinian Reforms, and the Minorite Monastery followed in 1950. In modern times, the complex served various functions, including military training, noble officials’ housing, and storage, leading to severe deterioration. By the 1990s, some spaces were used for social housing, while others fell into disrepair.
Between 2010 and 2015, the monastery underwent full restoration to preserve its heritage, enhance public access, and foster cultural engagement. Now open year-round, it offers exhibitions, workshops, and performances. It also hosts activities by the secondary art school, town theater, and Baroque culture association, as well as church services and concerts. The main stakeholders and beneficiaries are
• Public Authorities & Cultural Institutions: Support restoration and management.
• Local Community & Visitors: Benefit from educational and cultural programs.
• Academic and Artistic Institutions: Use spaces for research and performances.
• Religious Organizations: Maintain its spiritual function.
Today, it remains the best-preserved monastic complex in the Czech Republic, blending historical legacy with modern uses.
Resources needed
Total reconstruction cost: 13 mil. Euros, funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The monastery complex is managed by a town organization with 15 employees. Annual operating costs are 600,000 Euros, covered by 180 000 Euros from own activities and the rest from the town budget.
Evidence of success
The religious heritage is preserved thanks to the reconstruction project. The monastery complex premises are used by several organization, that cooperate. The events are organized mainly by the town organization in the cooperation with other associations. It provides also job opportunities and offers spaces for craftsmen. The number of visitors is around 19 000 annually.
Potential for learning or transfer
The preservation of religious heritage through the Český Krumlov Monasteries reconstruction offers a model for other regions. A key success factor is the strong cooperation between public authorities, cultural institutions, and local associations allowing multiple organizations to collaborate in hosting exhibitions, workshops, and events. The town administration leads these efforts in partnership with educational institutions, religious organizations, and artisan communities, fostering cultural and economic benefits. This model also provides job opportunities and dedicated spaces for craftsmen. With around 19,000 annual visitors, the monastery demonstrates how heritage sites can be revitalized while maintaining their historical significance. Transferability depends on securing funding, fostering institutional partnerships, and balancing preservation with modern uses, making it relevant for regions with underutilized heritage sites.
Further information
Good practice owner
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