The history of a monastery, Jewish heritage and architecture offer different ways to explore Dolní Kounice during your stay. Rosa Coeli, the synagogue, the Jewish cemetery, and the castle and chateau represent different historical themes. The Chapel of St Anthony offers views over the town and its surroundings; an asphalt cycle path along the Jihlava adds an option for a walk or bike ride. You can tailor your visit to suit your interests in culture, views or outdoor activity.
Rosa Coeli: a monastery with a distinguished regional history
Rosa Coeli was originally the oldest convent for women in Moravia. The Premonstratensian Order founded the monastery in 1181, not far from the centre of Dolní Kounice. Its founding year and historical status offer two perspectives on the same place: the monastery’s origins and its place in the history of Moravian monasteries.
An audio guide for visitors to Rosa Coeli was introduced in 2019. Visitors could use a mobile phone and headphones to explore the monastery at their own pace. If you plan to use the audio guide during your visit, check in advance whether it is still available.
Synagogue and Jewish cemetery
The synagogue in Dolní Kounice was built between 1652 and 1655 in the early Baroque style and is one of the oldest synagogues in Moravia. The dates indicate the construction period, while the early Baroque classification specifies its architectural character. Guided tours of the synagogue, with commentary, begin on the hour during the monument’s opening hours. As the schedule may change, check the current times before your visit.
The Jewish cemetery in Dolní Kounice was established in 1680 and contains around 1,500 irregularly arranged gravestones. Alongside the synagogue as a building, the cemetery is another focal point of Jewish history in the town. The synagogue offers an introduction through its architecture, while the cemetery tells its story through its founding history and the number and arrangement of its gravestones.
Castle, chateau and views over the town
Dolní Kounice Castle and Chateau were originally built to protect the monastery. Their original purpose therefore connects them directly with Rosa Coeli; the buildings can be considered as part of the town’s history alongside that of the monastery. Guided tours of the castle and chateau are available. As schedules may change, check the current tour times before your visit.
The Chapel of St Anthony offers a beautiful view over the entire town and the surrounding area. While the historic sites draw attention to architectural history and the past, the chapel provides a perspective on the town as a whole and its wider setting.
A different focus: the cycle path along the Jihlava
The 4 km asphalt Ivančice–Dolní Kounice cycle path follows the Jihlava River through picturesque countryside. It opened to the public in September 2025. The path is for cyclists and pedestrians only. Its length, riverside route and explicitly stated permitted users make it a clearly defined active alternative to visits focused on cultural history.
Discover more destinations: Nové Bránice, Nosislav, Ochoz U Tišnova, Litostrov, Silůvky, Kuřim, Lubné, Popůvky.
For the broader travel overview: Brno-Country District.
