Zlata Koruna Monastery

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According to legend, Zlatá Koruna was built in the 13th century by Czech King Přemysl Otakar II to give thanks for his victory at the Battle of Kressenbrunn. Today, visitors can admire the monastery’s historic architecture, which spans several centuries. The oldest surviving structure is the 14th century Chapel of the Guardian Angel, which supposedly housed a thorn from Christ’s crown. The immense Church of the Ascension is the largest church in the region, the interior of which is completely covered with an explosion of Baroque and Rococo ornamentation. Visitors can also join a guided tour to learn about the daily lives of 18th century nuns, and see various areas of the convent. Of the monastery’s many artistic gems, the highlight might just be the one-of-a-kind concert piano made by Carl Bechstein, which was originally commissioned by the Tsar’s palace in St. Petersburg.