Must-See Famous Statues in Brno City Centre

The heart of Brno is filled with bold artistic statements. Many of these pieces were added recently to celebrate the city's history. They often spark debate among locals and tourists alike. Here are the most iconic modern additions to the city landscape.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Courage (The Giant Horse)
• Best for families: The Brno Dragon
• Best free: All statues on this list are free to view!

1. Name: Courage (Odvaha) Type: Sculpture Why go: This 8-meter tall bronze horse represents Jošt of Luxembourg. It is famous for its extremely long legs. Best for: Photography and modern art lovers. Where: Moravské náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main station. Tip: Stand directly under the horse and look up for a surprising perspective.
2. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: Monument Why go: Locally called the "bullet," this black stone clock releases a glass marble every day at 11:00 AM. Best for: Experiencing local traditions. Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central pedestrian zone. Tip: Arrive at 10:45 AM if you want to catch a marble.
3. Name: Statue of Justice Type: Sculpture Why go: It depicts a man lifting a heavy block over a fountain. It represents the weight of judicial responsibility. Best for: Deep thinkers and art fans. Where: In front of the Administrative Court. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from Freedom Square. Tip: This is a great spot for a quiet break away from the main crowds.
4. Name: Mozart Statue Type: Sculpture Why go: This statue shows a young, naked Mozart with one wing. It commemorates his performance in Brno as a child. Best for: Music history buffs. Where: In front of Reduta Theatre at Zelný trh. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the Zelný trh market. Tip: The Reduta is one of the oldest theatre buildings in Central Europe.

Historical Monuments and Legends

Brno is a city of legends that date back centuries. Some of the most famous statues in Brno city centre are tied to these ancient tales. You can see these stories carved into the very walls of the city. These sites offer a glimpse into the medieval soul of Moravia.

1. Name: The Brno Dragon Type: Legend/Display Why go: It is actually a preserved crocodile hanging from the ceiling. It is the city's most famous mascot. Best for: Kids and folklore fans. Where: Entrance of the Old Town Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow signs for the Old Town Hall. Tip: Look for the "crooked pinnacle" on the building's portal while you are there.
2. Name: The Brno Wheel Type: Legend/Display Why go: A wooden wheel made by a carpenter in a single day to win a bet. It represents local determination. Best for: History lovers. Where: Old Town Hall passage. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Next to the Dragon. Tip: Read the full story on the nearby plaque to learn about the legends of Brno.
3. Name: Parnas Fountain Type: Baroque Fountain Why go: A massive, ornate fountain featuring figures from Greek mythology and a cave-like structure. Best for: Baroque art fans. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy walk from the Cathedral. Tip: Visit during the day to see the market vendors selling local produce.
4. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Religious Monument Why go: A beautiful example of Baroque religious art. It was built to thank God after a plague ended. Best for: Religious history. Where: Zelný trh. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Upper part of the market square. Tip: The detail on the statues is best seen in the morning light.

Unique Art and Hidden Figures

Beyond the main squares, Brno hides many artistic treasures. These statues often honor famous residents or quirky local myths. Finding them is like a treasure hunt through the city's winding alleys. They make any self-guided walking tour more exciting.

1. Name: The Three Fauns Type: Sculpture Why go: Small, playful figures located on a building facade. They add a touch of whimsy to a busy street. Best for: Sharp-eyed explorers. Where: Corner of Freedom Square. Time: 2 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look up near the entrance to the pedestrian zone. Tip: These are easy to miss, so keep your eyes focused on the upper floors.
2. Name: T.G. Masaryk Statue Type: Monument Why go: Honors the first president of Czechoslovakia. It is a symbol of national pride and democracy. Best for: History buffs. Where: In front of the Medical Faculty, Komenského náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the tram to Česká stop. Tip: The park nearby is a great place to sit and relax.
3. Name: Gregor Mendel Memorial Type: Statue Why go: Honors the father of genetics who lived and worked in Brno. Best for: Science enthusiasts. Where: Mendlovo náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 1 or 5 from the centre. Tip: Visit the nearby abbey where Mendel performed his famous pea plant experiments.

Planning Your Art Walk in Brno

Brno is very compact. You can see most of these famous statues in Brno city centre in about three hours. Start your walk at the main train station. Head towards the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul for a great view first. Then, descend into the historic heart.

Is Brno walkable for tourists? Absolutely. Most of the city centre is a pedestrian zone. You won't need to worry about heavy traffic while looking at art. Wear comfortable shoes as some streets have old cobblestones.

If you have more time, consider exploring the Brno Central Cemetery. It is home to many artistic tombstones and memorials. It is a short tram ride away from the main square. You can find more information on the Go To Brno official portal.

Public transport is efficient if you want to see statues further out. Use the DPMB website to check tram schedules. Most statues are well-lit at night, offering a different atmosphere for photography. Enjoy the blend of the old and the new in this vibrant city.