In the charming village of Ostrá, near Lysá nad Labem, you’ll find a unique destination that transports visitors back in time — to an era when traditional crafts were an essential part of everyday life. The Botanicus Craft Centre and Herb Gardens recreates the atmosphere of a medieval village, filled with the sights, sounds, and scents of artisanal life and lush gardens.
From late April to early October (daily except Mondays), visitors can explore a wide variety of historic crafts — from tinsmithing, pottery, and rope-making, to soap-making, candle-making, and papermaking. Many of the workshops are interactive, allowing guests of all ages to try their hand at the techniques under the guidance of experienced artisans or on their own.
The beautifully recreated medieval marketplace offers a chance to purchase handmade products directly from the craftspeople. Payment is made using special “groše,” a stylized local currency that can be exchanged at the centre’s entrance. Available products include handcrafted candles, soaps, ceramics, rope, paper, and a selection of natural cosmetics made under the Botanicus brand.
Visitors can enjoy refreshments on-site, including Celtic-style pancakes made with buckwheat flour, or cool down with herbal syrups. In the Great Hall, traditional meals prepared with ingredients sourced directly from the organic gardens are served, offering an authentic and healthy dining experience.
After the bustle of the craft village, you can unwind in the expansive herb gardens, which cover an area of over 22 hectares. These thematically organized gardens include monastic, oriental, kitchen, white, lavender, and traditional herb gardens, as well as a natural maze and labyrinths that are especially popular with children. All gardens are organically cultivated and serve as a source of raw materials for the production of cosmetics and natural products sold in the onsite shop.
Every Saturday, the centre comes alive with a rich cultural program that includes falconry shows, live music, theatre performances, and street entertainers. On weekends, additional workshops like blacksmithing and woodcarving are often open, with many hands-on experiences for visitors.
Please note that smoking and dogs are not allowed anywhere on the grounds to help preserve the peaceful and clean environment. Visitors are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes, as some areas lead through natural terrain.
The Botanicus Craft Centre and Herb Gardens is an ideal destination for a family outing, school field trip, or a day of mindful exploration. It offers a rare opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, experience the satisfaction of handcraft, and enjoy a truly immersive journey into history and ecology.
