The History of the Memorial to the Victims of Evil

The Memorial to the Victims of Evil Plzeň history began in the 1950s. Luboš Hruška was arrested for his political beliefs. He suffered greatly in various labor camps and prisons. During his time in jail, he made a solemn promise. He vowed to build a garden for everyone if he survived. He wanted a place where people could find inner peace. This garden was meant to honor all victims of totalitarian regimes.

After his release, Hruška began working on his family land. He spent decades planting trees and creating a spiritual atmosphere. He worked alone at first, often under the watch of the secret police. The garden slowly grew into a masterpiece of landscape design. In 1995, the site was officially dedicated to the public. It now serves as a national memorial and a place for meditation. The history of this site is a testament to human resilience.

The garden is more than just a park. It is a living monument to freedom and reconciliation. Many local residents consider it the heart of the city’s spiritual life. You can learn more about the region's heritage through the official city tourism board. The site remains a quiet escape from the busy city center. It reminds us that peace is a gift we must protect. Every path and sculpture here tells a part of Hruška’s journey.

10 Essential Sights at the Memorial and Plzeň

Plzeň offers many historical treasures for curious travelers. The following list includes the best sights at the Luboš Hruška Meditation Garden Plzeň and beyond. These locations highlight the city's complex and fascinating past.

1. Name: Luboš Hruška Meditation Garden Type: nature Why go: This is the site of the memorial. It offers a serene environment for reflection. Best for: Solo travelers and history buffs. Where: Doudlevce district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Tip: Visit in spring for the blossom.
2. Name: Chapel of St. Maximilian Kolbe Type: experience Why go: This modern chapel is the spiritual center of the garden. It honors a martyr from Auschwitz. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Inside the Meditation Garden. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in garden entry. Tip: Look for the unique lighting inside.
3. Name: The Stations of the Cross Type: sight Why go: These fourteen sculptures depict the suffering of Christ. They mirror the suffering of political prisoners. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Along the garden paths. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free with entry. Tip: Read the descriptions for deeper meaning.
4. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: museum Why go: It honors the liberation of Plzeň by the US Army in 1945. It provides great WWII context. Best for: Military history fans. Where: City center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Check for special 2026 liberation events.
5. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: experience Why go: Explore a labyrinth of medieval tunnels and cellars. It shows a different side of Plzeň history. Best for: Families and adventurers. Where: Near the main square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Ticket required. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground.
6. Name: Great Synagogue Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. It survived the Nazi occupation against all odds. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Smetana Park area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small donation suggested. Tip: Climb the tower for a great view.
7. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: sight Why go: This Gothic cathedral has the tallest spire in the country. It is a landmark of the city. Best for: Viewpoints. Where: Republic Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the nave. Tip: Take the stairs to the top.
8. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: experience Why go: See world-class modernist apartment designs from the early 20th century. They represent the city's pre-war wealth. Best for: Design lovers. Where: Various city locations. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Booking required. Tip: Book tours well in advance.
9. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: experience Why go: Learn about the history of the world's first pilsner beer. It is an industrial heritage site. Best for: Beer lovers. Where: Near the train station. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Higher than average. Tip: Try the unfiltered beer in the cellar.
10. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: museum Why go: This interactive museum is located in former Škoda factory buildings. It blends industrial history with science. Best for: Families with children. Where: Borská street. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Family tickets available. Tip: Visit the 3D planetarium.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Memorial in Plzeň

Visiting the Memorial to the Victims of Evil requires some planning. The garden is located outside the main city center. You should check how to get there before you leave. Public buses run regularly from the central bus station. The ride takes about fifteen minutes. Always check the seasonal opening hours on the national tourism board website.

The atmosphere in the garden is very quiet. Visitors are asked to speak softly and respect the space. It is not a place for loud picnics or games. Photography is allowed but should be done discreetly. Many people find that visiting in the morning is best. The light is beautiful for photos and the crowds are thin. Expect to spend at least an hour wandering the paths.

You can easily combine this visit with other sights. The Doudlevce district is near the river, which is great for walks. Many visitors head back to the city center for lunch. Plzeň is very walkable and safe for tourists. If you travel in 2026, look for local history festivals. These events often include guided walks through historical districts. Always carry a small amount of local currency for entry fees.