This historic Moravian city has a 35-meter Baroque Holy Trinity Column, six mythological fountains, and a unique astronomical clock. It's known for its pungent local cheese.
Olomouc, the historic capital of Moravia, is a city of 100,000 people in the eastern Czech Republic. In the main square, you can see the Holy Trinity Column, a 35-meter Baroque monument, surrounded by fountains depicting mythological figures. The city is home to Palacký University, founded in 1573. From the Town Hall tower, you can enjoy views of the city's spires and squares. St. Wenceslas Cathedral features a mix of architectural styles from different periods. Olomouc is also known for its locally produced cheese with a strong aroma.
The Holy Trinity Column and Upper Square
The Holy Trinity Column stands in the center of Olomouc's Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Built in the early 18th century, this 35-meter Baroque monument commemorates the end of a plague epidemic. The column includes sculptures of saints and biblical figures. Since 2000, it has been recognized as a World Heritage site due to its artistic and cultural importance. The Upper Square surrounding the column has colorful buildings with cafes and shops, making it a popular meeting place.
Olomouc Town Hall and Astronomical Clock
The Gothic Town Hall is located in the center of Upper Square. You can climb its 75-meter tower for views of the city. On the north side of the Town Hall, you'll see Olomouc's astronomical clock. Originally constructed in the 15th century, it was rebuilt after World War II in the Socialist Realist style. The clock now displays workers, scientists, and farmers instead of saints and religious figures. At noon each day, you can watch a short mechanical show as figurines emerge from the clock.
St. Wenceslas Cathedral
St. Wenceslas Cathedral, with its three neo-Gothic spires, can be seen from many parts of the city. Its construction began in the 12th century, but it has undergone several rebuilds and expansions. Inside, you can observe various architectural styles, including Romanesque crypts and Baroque chapels. The main spire is 100 meters tall, making it the second-tallest church tower in the Czech Republic.
Baroque Fountains
You can find six Baroque fountains throughout Olomouc's old town. Each fountain represents a figure from classical mythology. On Upper Square, the Caesar Fountain depicts the legendary founder of the city. Elsewhere, you can see the Hercules Fountain showing the hero fighting the Hydra. These fountains were once part of the city's water supply but are now decorative elements.
University Life and Cafes
Palacký University contributes to Olomouc's youthful atmosphere. During the academic year, you'll see students in the city's many cafes and pubs. Some popular spots include Café 87 near the astronomical clock and Long Story Short, a cafe in a former military bakery. As you walk through the old town, you'll notice university buildings adding to the city's architectural variety.
Olomouc Cheese (Olomoucké tvarůžky)
Olomoucké tvarůžky, also called "stinky cheese," is a local specialty. This soft, ripened cheese has a strong smell and taste. You can try it at local restaurants or visit the A.W. company store, which has been making the cheese since 1876. If you're interested in the cheese's history, you can take a day trip to the Muzeum Olomouckých Tvarůžků in nearby Loštice.
