Historic places in Olomouc

Historic places in Olomouc

1. See

   Astronomical clock

   It was constructed in the 15th century, but takes its present appearance from the 1950s, during a refurbishment to repair damage inflicted in World War II. Czechoslovakia was under Communist rule by then and the clock reflects the values of the day, the saints and angels being replaced by scientists, sportspeople and labourers. At noon the clock has a presentation that is unique to its structure and construction. There is one other astronomical clock in the Czech lands (in the other ancient capital, Prague), but as a surviving example of Socialist-Realism, the Olomouc Astronomical clock is unique world-wide. It is another popular rendezvous point in the city.

2. See

   Hradisko Monastery

   Hradisko is the oldest monastery in Moravia and its location on the banks of the Morava river, just upstream from the orthodox church, makes it a pleasant 20-minute walk from the cathedral end of town. The monastery building has belonged to the military since the monastic order was banned by Emperor Joseph II in 1784. It is now used as a hospital and is open to the public within guided tours.

   Apr-Sep every first Sat of the month: 08:00, 09:00, 10:00 and 11:00; Every working Thu: 14:00 and 15:00·80 Kč / 40 Kč

3. See

   St. Michael's church

   Kostel sv. Michala

   The church appears quite plain from the outside. Upon entering, however, most first time visitors find their breath stolen away. Inside is one of the most beautiful baroque churches in Central Europe. One notable feature is a painting of an apparently pregnant Virgin Mary, quite rare in a Catholic church. It’s also possible to enter the old monastery attached to the side of the church and climb its bell tower.

   07:00–18:00 daily

4. See

   St. Wenceslas Cathedral

   Katedrála sv. Václava

   A thousand-year-old cathedral, dominates the city’s skyline with the tallest spire in Moravia (second tallest in the Czech Republic). Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa both visited the cathedral and the holy relics of Saint Jan Sarkander are interred within.

   Open daily, variable times, usually 07:00–17:00. During the tourist season (end of April to end of September) it is possible to take a guided tour, also in English·500 Kč for a guided tour in English/group

5. See

   The Archbishops’ palace

   Arcibiskupský palác

   The official seat of Olomouc bishops and archbishops. It was in this building on 2 December 1848, that Franz Joseph acceded to the throne of the Austro-Hungarian Hapsburg Empire.

   Apr, Oct: Mon–Fri upon previous booking, weekends and holidays 10:00-17:00; May–Sep: Tue-Sun 10:00-17:00; Nov–Mar: Mon–Fri upon previous booking·180 Kč / 120 Kč

6. See

   The Premyslid palace

   Přemyslovský palác, Romanesque Bishop’s Palace, Zdíkův palác

   The building has undergone a thorough restoration and now houses the extensive Archdiocese museum. The building is the oldest in Olomouc and much of the original stonework has been exposed. On the upper floors, the circular chapel of St Barbara is a highlight.

   Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00·70 Kč / 35 Kč. Su, 1st W of month, certain public holidays free

7. See

   Veteran Arena

   Motor museum with a large collection of well-preserved historic cars and motorcycles, focused mostly on Czechoslovak pre-war production, mainly Tatra, Praga, Aero, Škoda, Jawa and Walter.

   Apr-Oct: Tue-Sun 10:00-17:00·198 Kč / 148 Kč

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Olomouc (CC BY-SA 4.0).