Želiv offers several different points of interest for a trip: the monastery with its exhibitions, cycling routes with different destinations, and the Trnávka slalom course near the municipality. Želiv Monastery is designated a National Cultural Monument.
Monastery Church, Art and Changing Themes
Those interested in architectural history will find a clearly dated redesign in the monastery church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary: Jan Blažej Santini Aichel extensively redesigned it between 1714 and 1720. The coffered hall of Trčkův hrad depicts ten Czech Madonnas, including the Madonna and Child of Želiv. The church redesign and the Madonna images highlight different aspects of monastic culture.
An exhibition at Trčkův hrad also explores the history of the psychiatric treatment and care facility; it includes a visit to a former “Samotka” (isolation cell). This adds another historical theme alongside church architecture and religious art. Visitors to the monastery can complement their stay with a guided monastery tour. The tour is fully accessible; confirm accessibility before your trip.
In the reconstructed Old Prelature, you can visit nine rooms featuring paintings, furniture, books and liturgical objects. On the ground floor, an exhibition of archaeological discoveries from the monastery grounds and their immediate surroundings adds another perspective on the rooms. The visitor centre provides information about the entire monastery complex and its surroundings—another thematic context alongside the individual exhibitions.
Cycling Routes and Paddling
There are two different routes for a cycling trip: the “Poutní cyklotrasa z Prahy na Vysočinu” (Pilgrim Cycling Route from Prague to the Vysočina) continues via Želiv Monastery to Křemešník. The “Okolí vodních nádrží Želiv a Sedlice” (Around the Želiv and Sedlice Reservoirs) cycling tour leads to Želiv and the Sedlice Dam. One specific difference can help you choose between them: the pilgrimage route continues beyond the monastery to Křemešník, while the second tour connects Želiv with the Sedlice Dam.
The Trnávka slalom course is near the municipality of Želiv and is intended for experienced paddlers. It opens for free practice sessions for professionals and amateurs twice a year. If you plan to visit the course, check the dates of the training sessions before your trip.
Views and Local Highlights
Nearby Paní skála offers views of the Vřesník Reservoir and the municipality of Želiv. The rock-climbing wall is especially well known among climbers; the views and climbing appeal to different interests. The Žižkův dub memorial oak is also located at Panský rybník. The view of the landscape and municipality contrasts with the memorial oak at Panský rybník.
If you are travelling for the slalom course, checking the training dates should be part of your itinerary planning.
Discover more destinations: Velký Rybník, Nová Buková, Zachotín, Dehtáře, Pacov, Kámen U Pacova, Knizata, Pelhrimov
For the broader travel overview: Okres Pelhřimov.
