Walking tour Mnisek pod Brdy: Discovering History and Beauty

Join us on a captivating journey through the charming town of Mnisek pod Brdy (Mníšek pod Brdy), where history and beauty of architecture intertwine.
The autumn vibe and the subtle, misty haze add even more charm and mystery to this town, revealing its essence in a more intriguing light.
Wander with us through the Freedom Square, the heart of Mnisek pod Brdy, where local life thrives amidst quaint cafes and shops. Marvel at the picturesque surroundings that make this square a perfect spot for relaxation and people-watching.
In this video, we explore the stunning St. Vaclav Church, a magnificent architectural gem that stands as a testament to the town's rich heritage.
The Church of St. Wenceslas is the dominant feature of F. K. Svoboda Square, surrounded by a small cemetery that has not been in use since the 1890s. The original church of the same dedication stood near the current town hall but was burned down by the Swedes in 1639. Consequently, the owners of the Unverta monastery estate decided to build a new church.
The Baroque church, dedicated to the principal patron saint of the Czech lands, St. Wenceslas, was constructed between 1743 and 1756.
This building was designed by an unknown Prague architect (possibly František Ignác Preiss or Anselm Lurag) under the influence of the works of Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer and Ferdinand Maximilian Kanka. The church was completed in 1868 with a prismatic tower in the Neo-Romanesque style, which served as a bell tower.
Our adventure wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the enchanting Mnisek Castle (Zámek Mníšek pod Brdy). Discover its fascinating history and breathtaking views that will leave you in awe.
The first written mention of the castle in Mnichov pod Brdy can be traced back to the entry in Charles IV's codex "Majestas Carolina" from 1348.
However, archaeological findings from the castle courtyard indicate that a structure existed on this site as early as the late 13th or early 14th century. In 1487, for more than 150 years, Mníšek acquired an important family of lords from Mitrovic. This family managed the residence with the court throughout the 16th century, when considerable construction work was undoubtedly carried out here In 1639, the castle was plundered and its courtyard set ablaze by Swedish troops under General Banner.
Another pivotal year was 1655, when a prominent Prague citizen, Servác Engel from Engelfluss, a tanner by trade from Flanders, purchased the estate from the Mitrovics. He undertook extensive renovations of the castle between 1656 and 1672.
In the latter half of the 18th century, several modifications were made to the building under the ownership of the Unverta family. Following the death of Ignác Umvert, the property passed to the Pachty family from Rájov. However, due to familial disputes, it was managed by officials from the land registry until 1838. The castle suffered damage from a fire in 1848.
In 1909, after the death of Count Schirding, his relative Theodorich acquired the estate and began a major restoration project based on designs from 1910-1911.
In 1945, the castle was looted and subsequently confiscated, passing into the hands of the Ministry of Interior in 1946.
In 2000, the building was cleared and handed over to the National Institute for Heritage - a regional specialized center for the Central Bohemian Region in Prague, which initiated extensive restoration efforts. The restoration of the castle in Mnichov pod Brdy commenced in December 2000. This unique project aims to recreate the condition of the castle as it was in the early 1920.
Whether you're planning a visit or simply seeking a virtual escape, this video offers a delightful glimpse into the charm of Mnisek pod Brdy. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more beautiful explorations!
/ @eirenayoutubeart
November 10, 2024
Yours WhisperCzechSoul
Mnišek pod Brdy, Czech Republic