The moving history of Luboš Hruška Memorial Garden

Luboš Hruška was a soldier who became a political prisoner in the 1950s. He was held in the nearby Bory prison by the communist regime. During his long years of suffering, he made a solemn promise to God. He vowed to build a place of reconciliation if he ever regained his freedom. This promise became the foundation for the history of Luboš Hruška Memorial Garden.

After his release, Hruška returned to his family's fruit orchard. He began the hard work of clearing the old trees by hand. He did not want a productive farm but a spiritual space. He slowly replaced the apple trees with rare conifers and decorative shrubs. This was a dangerous task during the communist era, as the secret police watched him closely.

The garden eventually became a center for underground religious and cultural life. Hruška worked with the sculptor Roman Podrázský to create a monumental Way of the Cross. These sandstone statues tell a story of suffering and eventual triumph. In 1995, Hruška gifted the garden to the Bishopric of Plzeň to ensure its preservation. You can find more details in this Meditation Garden Plzeň visiting info guide.

10 Essential Sights at the Memorial Garden

This list includes the most important historical and artistic elements of the garden. We have also included a few nearby stops to complete your day trip. Each item reflects the spirit of peace that Luboš Hruška envisioned for Plzeň.

• Quick Pick: Best for reflection: The Way of the Cross sculptures.
• Quick Pick: Best for architecture: Chapel of St. Maximilian Kolbe.
• Quick Pick: Best for families: Borský Park (nearby).
• Quick Pick: Best for history: The Memorial to Victims of Evil.

1. Name: The Way of the Cross Type: Sight Why go: It features 12 massive sandstone sculptures by Roman Podrázský. These works are the artistic soul of the garden. Best for: Art lovers and spiritual seekers. Where: Along the main garden path. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Look closely at the facial expressions on the statues.
2. Name: Chapel of St. Maximilian Kolbe Type: Experience Why go: This award-winning modern chapel honors a saint who died in Auschwitz. It is a masterpiece of contemporary Czech architecture. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: The center of the garden. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to enter with garden ticket. Tip: Check for afternoon organ concerts in the summer.
3. Name: The Memorial to Victims of Evil Type: Sight Why go: This monument specifically honors those who died fighting for freedom. It is a central part of the history of Luboš Hruška Memorial Garden. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the chapel entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included. Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for total silence.
4. Name: Rare Conifer Collection Type: Nature Why go: Hruška planted hundreds of unique trees from around the world. The garden is now a significant botanical site in the Plzeň Region. Best for: Nature photographers. Where: Throughout the grounds. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Included. Tip: The colors are most vibrant in late May.
5. Name: The Founder's Plaque Type: History Why go: It tells the personal story of Luboš Hruška's life and mission. It helps visitors understand the emotional weight of the site. Best for: New visitors. Where: Near the entrance gate. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Read this first to set the mood for your walk.
6. Name: The Reconciliation Gate Type: Experience Why go: A symbolic entrance that represents moving from a dark past into a peaceful future. Best for: Photography. Where: Entry point. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Included. Tip: It makes for a very symmetrical photo.
7. Name: The Bory Prison Viewpoint Type: History Why go: You can see the walls of the prison where Hruška was held. This provides a stark contrast to the beauty of the garden. Best for: Understanding the context. Where: Perimeter of the garden. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Use a map to identify the prison towers in the distance.
8. Name: Borský Park Type: Day trip Why go: This is the largest park in Plzeň and is located right next to the garden. It is perfect for a long walk after your visit. Best for: Families and joggers. Where: 5-minute walk from the garden. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: There are several small cafes near the park entrance.
9. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Day trip Why go: Explore the industrial history of the city. It is a world-famous site just a short drive away. Best for: Beer fans. Where: Plzeň city center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by tour. Tip: Book your tour online at the Visit Plzeň website.
10. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: Day trip Why go: See some of the most famous modernist apartment designs in Europe. Best for: Design lovers. Where: Various city locations. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Ticketed tours. Tip: Check this tours guide for booking info.

Essential Meditation Garden Plzeň visiting info

Planning a trip to this site requires some timing. The garden is typically open from April through October. It often closes during the winter months to protect the sculptures and plants. Always check the official Visit Czechia site for current hours. Entry fees are very modest and help with the garden's maintenance.

To reach the garden, you can take public transport from the city center. Bus lines stop frequently near the Doudlevce area. If you are driving, there is small parking area nearby. For more detailed directions, see our guide on how to get to Meditation Garden Plzeň. It is a very quiet neighborhood, so please be respectful of the local residents.

Photography is allowed, but visitors should remain quiet. This is a place of prayer and remembrance for many locals. Group tours are available if you book in advance. These tours provide deep insights into the history of Luboš Hruška Memorial Garden. Expect to spend about 90 minutes to two hours exploring everything at a slow pace.

Exploring More of Plzeň's Rich Heritage

Plzeň is much more than just its famous brewery. While the brewery is a must-see, the city has many hidden gems. The Meditation Garden is one of the most significant spiritual sites in the country. It offers a different perspective on the 20th-century history of the Czech Republic. Many visitors find it to be the highlight of their trip.

After visiting the garden, you might want to explore the city's alternative side. There are many street art spots and local cafes that tourists often miss. You can find these in our alternative guide to Plzeň. The city is very walkable and easy to navigate in 2026. Make sure to try some local food in the historic square before you leave.