Top 10 Highlights at the Abbey of St. Thomas and Mendel

The abbey complex is located in the Staré Brno district. It offers a peaceful escape from the busy city center. You can spend several hours exploring the different sections of the grounds. Most visitors start at the museum before heading to the church. Here are the top ten things you should not miss during your visit.

• Quick Pick: Best for Science - Mendel Museum
• Quick Pick: Best for History - Basilica of the Assumption
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - The Abbey Garden
• Quick Pick: Best Nearby Trip - Špilberk Castle

1. Name: Mendel Museum of Masaryk University Type: Museum Why go: This museum explains Mendel's life and his groundbreaking work. You can see original documents and tools he used. It makes complex science easy to understand for everyone. Best for: Science enthusiasts and students. Where: Main abbey courtyard. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Approximately 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Take tram 1 or 5 to Mendlovo náměstí. Tip: Check the Mendel Museum Brno tickets and tours online for current prices.
2. Name: Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady Type: Sight Why go: This is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture in Moravia. It features beautiful brickwork and a stunning interior. It was founded by Queen Elisabeth Richeza in the 14th century. Best for: Architecture lovers and history buffs. Where: Adjacent to the museum. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to enter (donations welcome). Getting there: Located right on Mendel Square. Tip: Visit during the day to see the light through the stained glass.
3. Name: The Abbey Garden and Pea Greenhouse Type: Nature/Experience Why go: This is the exact spot where Mendel discovered the laws of inheritance. You can see the foundations of the original greenhouse. The garden is quiet and very well-maintained. Best for: A relaxing walk and photos. Where: Behind the main abbey buildings. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included with museum ticket. Getting there: Access through the museum entrance. Tip: Look for the pea plants usually growing there in summer.
4. Name: Mendel's Beehouse Type: Experience Why go: Mendel was also an avid beekeeper. He built a special beehouse to study the behavior of bees. It shows his diverse interests beyond just plants. Best for: Those interested in historical science. Where: Lower section of the abbey garden. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Part of the garden tour. Getting there: Follow the path from the greenhouse ruins. Tip: The beehouse is a great spot for a quiet moment.
5. Name: The Abbey Library Type: Sight Why go: The library holds thousands of ancient books and manuscripts. The room itself is a work of art with frescoed ceilings. It reflects the intellectual life of the Augustinian monks. Best for: Book lovers and researchers. Where: Upper floor of the abbey. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Usually requires a guided tour. Getting there: Ask at the museum reception for access. Tip: Photography is often restricted here to protect the books.
6. Name: Mendlovo Náměstí (Mendel Square) Type: Neighborhood Why go: This busy square features modern sculptures dedicated to Mendel's work. It is the heart of the Old Brno district. You can see the "Peas" sculpture which is quite famous. Best for: Seeing local life and modern art. Where: Directly in front of the abbey. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Major tram hub for many lines. Tip: This is a great place to find local snacks and coffee.
7. Name: Starobrno Brewery Type: Experience Why go: Located right next to the abbey, this is Brno's most famous brewery. It has a long history connected to the local area. You can enjoy fresh beer in their large beer garden. Best for: Foodies and beer fans. Where: Hlinky street, next to the square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate prices for food and drinks. Getting there: A two-minute walk from the abbey entrance. Tip: Try the local "Starobrno Medium" lager.
8. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Day trip/Sight Why go: This massive fortress overlooks the abbey and the whole city. It offers the best panoramic views of Brno. It has a dark history as a notorious prison. Best for: History fans and photographers. Where: On the hill above Old Brno. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; museum has a fee. Getting there: Walk uphill from the abbey for about 15 minutes. Tip: Check out the Spilberk Castle visiting guide for tour times.
9. Name: Brno Central Cemetery Type: Sight Why go: This is the final resting place of Gregor Mendel. His grave is located in the Augustinian section. The cemetery itself is a peaceful and beautiful park. Best for: Paying respects and quiet reflection. Where: Vídeňská street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 2 or 5 from Mendlovo náměstí. Tip: Visit the Brno Central Cemetery official site for a map of famous graves.
10. Name: St. Anne's University Hospital History Type: Sight Why go: This hospital has deep ties to the abbey's history. Mendel himself spent time here and interacted with doctors. The architecture of the older buildings is quite impressive. Best for: Medical history buffs. Where: Pekařská street, near the abbey. Time: 20 minutes (exterior view). Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up Pekařská street from the square. Tip: Look for the memorial plaques on the hospital walls.

Planning Your Visit to the Abbey of St. Thomas and Mendel

Getting to the Abbey of St. Thomas and Mendel is very easy. It is located just outside the main pedestrian zone. Most visitors find it simple to use the local tram system. You can learn how to get to St. Thomas Abbey from center in just a few minutes. The area is well-connected to all parts of Brno.

For the best experience, visit on a weekday morning. The museum is less crowded then, and the garden is very peaceful. Many people combine this visit with a trip to the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. Both sites offer a deep look into the city's spiritual past. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestones.

Check the DPMB - Brno Public Transport site for schedules. Tickets can be bought via mobile app or at yellow machines. Most trams running to Mendlovo náměstí are frequent. This makes planning your day very flexible and stress-free. The square is a major hub for the city.

Why the Abbey of St. Thomas and Mendel Matters Today

The Abbey of St. Thomas and Mendel is more than just a museum. it is a living monument to scientific curiosity. Mendel's work here changed how we understand life itself. He proved that traits are passed down in predictable ways. This discovery is the foundation of all modern biology and medicine.

The Augustinian monks still live and work in the abbey today. They maintain the tradition of education and research. This blend of faith and science is quite rare and special. Many visitors also explore the Capuchin Crypt mummies in Brno nearby. Both sites show different aspects of monastic life in the city.

In 2026, the abbey continues to host international science conferences. It remains a place where new ideas are born. Exploring these historical places in Brno helps you appreciate the city's heritage. The abbey stands as a symbol of human achievement and persistence. It is a highlight of any trip to the Czech Republic.