
Franciscan Monastery and Church of the Assumption
A serene oasis with beautiful gardens, historic chapels, and fascinating catacombs. A peaceful escape offering rich history and art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Guided tours available

Franciscan Monastery and Church of the Assumption
Best Time
Guided tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene oasis with beautiful gardens, historic chapels, and fascinating catacombs. A peaceful escape offering rich history and art.
"A very pretty monastery-museum. If there's one thing not to be missed in the city, it's this."

🎯 Book Guided Tours Online
Secure your spot for catacombs & lower church tours online. Walk-ins may be possible. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens Daily
Enjoy the free, open gardens from 9 am to 4:45 pm for a peaceful retreat. :seedling:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Gardens
A peaceful oasis with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and quiet paths. Perfect for a serene escape and reflection.
Catacombs and Lower Church
Explore fascinating underground chambers and a historic lower church. Guided tours offer unique insights into the monastery's history.
Chapel of St. Barbara
Admire beautiful crucifixion depictions in this stunning chapel, a highlight for many visitors.
Diocesan Museum
Discover Gothic and Baroque architecture, a cloister with 17th-century windows, and a 14th-century chapter house.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Guided Tours Recommended
Peaceful Oasis in the City
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours Online
Secure your spot for catacombs & lower church tours online. Walk-ins may be possible. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens Daily
Enjoy the free, open gardens from 9 am to 4:45 pm for a peaceful retreat. :seedling:
🏛️ Visit the Diocesan Museum
Discover Gothic and Baroque architecture and historical artifacts. :museum:
✨ Admire Chapel of St. Barbara
Don't miss the beautiful crucifixion depictions in this chapel. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours Online
Secure your spot for catacombs & lower church tours online. Walk-ins may be possible. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens Daily
Enjoy the free, open gardens from 9 am to 4:45 pm for a peaceful retreat. :seedling:
🏛️ Visit the Diocesan Museum
Discover Gothic and Baroque architecture and historical artifacts. :museum:
✨ Admire Chapel of St. Barbara
Don't miss the beautiful crucifixion depictions in this chapel. :sparkles:
♿ Wheelchair Accessible Areas
The Diocesan Museum is accessible via platforms and an elevator. :wheelchair:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Franciscan Monastery for its beautiful, free gardens and the historical richness of its museum and chapels. While the D.C. location offers free entry to its serene grounds, the Pilsen site provides an affordable museum experience. Some visitors note that guided tours are essential for fully appreciating certain areas like the catacombs. Overall, it's considered a peaceful and culturally significant destination.
"Chapel of St. Barbara is beautiful, especially crucifixion depictions"
Mike Abrams
"Nice"
Carlos
"A very pretty monastery-museum. If there's one thing not to be missed in the city, it's this. Visits are completely free in all areas of the monastery, which also serves as a museum. Many interesting museum pieces are housed in a well-appointed space for an affordable price."
Olivier Mondet
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Franciscan Monastery is located in Brookland, NE D.C. Public transportation options are available, and it's often considered a peaceful escape from the city center.
The Franciscan Monastery in Pilsen is a notable landmark and often mentioned as a must-visit. It's centrally located within the city.
While specific details vary by location, in D.C., public transport is a common way to reach Brookland. In Pilsen, it's often a walkable destination within the city center.
Information on parking can vary. It's advisable to check the specific monastery's website or local parking regulations for the most up-to-date details.
Yes, the Franciscan Monastery, especially in D.C. and Pilsen, is often visited as part of a day trip due to its accessibility and manageable size.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Franciscan Monastery and its gardens in D.C. are free to visit. In Pilsen, the museum has an affordable entry fee.
The gardens in D.C. are typically open daily from 9 am to 4:45 pm. It's always a good idea to confirm hours before your visit.
For guided tours of the catacombs and lower church in D.C., booking online is recommended. While walk-ins are sometimes allowed, it's best to secure your spot.
In D.C., guided tours for the catacombs and lower church are usually offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 1 PM and 2 PM, and Sundays at 12 PM and 1:30 PM.
Yes, the church is part of the monastery complex and is generally accessible to visitors.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore peaceful gardens, historic chapels like the Chapel of St. Barbara with its crucifixion depictions, and the Diocesan Museum featuring Gothic and Baroque architecture.
Yes, the Franciscan Monastery in D.C. offers guided tours that include access to underground catacombs.
The monastery's gardens, architecture, and chapels offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
It's described as a peaceful oasis, a hidden gem, and a serene escape from the city.
The Diocesan Museum in Pilsen is accessible via platforms and an elevator. Accessibility at other locations may vary, so it's best to inquire directly.
📸 📸 Photography
The tranquil gardens, the historic architecture of the church and cloister, and the unique catacombs (where permitted) are excellent for photography.
While general photography in the gardens is usually fine, it's always wise to check for specific restrictions inside the church or museum areas.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and historical landmarks. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
The gardens offer natural light, while indoor areas like the church and museum will have ambient or artificial lighting, which can create different moods for your photos.
The stained glass windows, the intricate details of the architecture, and the serene garden landscapes are often highlighted as visually appealing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks for the kids, as amenities might be limited. The overall serene atmosphere makes it a good option for a calmer outing. Remember that some areas might have specific rules regarding noise or movement, so keeping children mindful of their surroundings is key.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
This makes it a perfect spot for a picnic lunch in the gardens or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance without spending a dime. It's a chance to experience history, art, and nature on a budget, making it a highly recommended stop.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Taking a guided tour can also be a rewarding solo activity, offering opportunities to learn and engage with history and culture. The monastery's atmosphere is conducive to introspection and a sense of calm, making it a great place to recharge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Gardens and Grounds
Beyond the immediate garden areas, the grounds themselves often feature architectural elements and serene corners that add to the overall tranquil experience. Whether you're seeking a moment of peace or simply enjoying the natural beauty, the outdoor spaces are a highlight. Remember to check the specific opening hours for the gardens, as they are a key feature for many visitors.
Seasonal Beauty
The gardens can offer different visual experiences throughout the year, with spring and summer likely showcasing the most vibrant blooms. Even in other seasons, the structured landscaping and mature trees provide a sense of calm and beauty.
Guided Tours: Unlocking History
The tours often cover areas not accessible otherwise, providing a unique perspective on the monastery's past. Visitors have noted the beauty of the Chapel of St. Barbara and its crucifixion depictions as a memorable part of these guided experiences. The Diocesan Museum, with its Gothic and Baroque elements, also benefits from guided explanations to fully appreciate its historical context.
Tour Logistics
In D.C., tours are typically offered on specific days and times, so checking the schedule and booking ahead is crucial. While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, relying on them might lead to disappointment. The cost of these tours is often minimal or included in a general admission fee for the museum sections, making them a worthwhile addition to your visit.
Architectural and Artistic Treasures
These historical elements offer a glimpse into centuries of craftsmanship and devotion. The preservation and presentation of these features make the monastery a valuable cultural site. The combination of religious spaces and museum collections provides a rich experience for those interested in history, art, and architecture.
Artistic Highlights
Key artistic highlights include the detailed crucifixion depictions in the Chapel of St. Barbara and the historical artifacts displayed within the Diocesan Museum. The architectural details, such as the cloister windows and the ancient chapter house, are also significant points of interest for visitors.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit