Where is the Brno Astronomical Clock Statue? Top 10 Sights
Brno is a city known for its quirky and modern public art. Many visitors arrive asking where is the Brno astronomical clock statue because of its unique shape. This guide helps you find the clock and other famous landmarks. You can easily see them all on a Brno famous statues walking tour through the historic center. Let’s explore the most iconic sculptures in the Moravian capital.
Finding Where is the Brno Astronomical Clock Statue
The Brno astronomical clock is located in the heart of the city. You will find it on the eastern side of Náměstí Svobody, also known as Freedom Square. This is the main square in Brno's Old Town. It is hard to miss because of its tall, black granite shape. Many locals and tourists gather here every day.
The clock does not look like a traditional timepiece. It resembles a large bullet or a phallus. This design commemorates the city's defense against the Swedish siege in 1645. It is a symbol of strength and local pride. You can find more details about its history on the official Go To Brno tourism portal.
Every day at 11:00 AM, the clock performs a special ritual. It releases a single glass marble from one of its four openings. People often wait for hours to catch this unique souvenir. If you want a marble, arrive at least 30 minutes early. It is one of the most popular free activities in the city.
Top 10 Stops for a Brno Famous Statues Walking Tour
Brno is filled with creative sculptures that tell fascinating stories. This list covers the best items for your walking itinerary. Most are within a short walk of each other in the pedestrian zone. Wear comfortable shoes as you explore these urban treasures.
- Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: Sculpture/Clock Why go: It is the city's most famous and controversial landmark. Best for: Catching a free glass marble souvenir. Where: Náměstí Svobody (Freedom Square). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Stand by the openings at 11:00 AM sharp.
- Name: Courage (The Long-Legged Horse) Type: Statue Why go: An 8-meter tall bronze knight on a horse with unusually long legs. Best for: Surreal photos and checking the meaning of the Brno horse statue from below. Where: Moravské náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look up from between the horse's front legs for a funny perspective.
- Name: Statue of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Type: Sculpture Why go: A slender, winged statue of the composer as a child. Best for: Music lovers and history buffs. Where: In front of the Reduta Theatre at Zelný trh. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Notice the single wing, representing his early death.
- Name: Justice (Spravedlnost) Type: Statue Why go: A man struggling to lift a heavy block over a fountain. Best for: Artistic appreciation and deep symbolism. Where: In front of the Supreme Administrative Court. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is located just a short walk from the Horse statue.
- Name: The Brno Dragon Type: Local Legend Why go: It is actually a stuffed crocodile hanging from the ceiling. Best for: Families and fans of local folklore. Where: The archway of the Old Town Hall. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Don't forget to look up when entering the courtyard.
- Name: The Brno Wheel Type: Woodwork Why go: A legendary wooden wheel made in a single day in 1638. Best for: Learning about local history and legends. Where: Old Town Hall, next to the Dragon. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This is a great stop during a Brno old town walking circuit.
- Name: Gregor Mendel Monument Type: Monument Why go: Honors the father of genetics who lived and worked in Brno. Best for: Science enthusiasts. Where: Mendlovo náměstí. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit the nearby Mendel Museum for more context.
- Name: The Three Giants Type: Architectural Sculpture Why go: Three massive figures holding up the balcony of a palace. Best for: Seeing impressive 19th-century craftsmanship. Where: Náměstí Svobody, on the facade of the Klein Palace. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: They are very close to the Astronomical Clock.
- Name: The Edison Lampshades Type: Light Sculpture Why go: A tribute to Thomas Edison, who electrified the local theater. Best for: Seeing modern art glow at night. Where: Malinovského náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit after sunset to see them illuminated.
- Name: Patafyzik on a Ladder Type: Surrealist Sculpture Why go: A small man sitting on top of a very tall, thin ladder. Best for: Finding hidden gems on a walking route to weird statues in Brno. Where: On the slopes of Špilberk Castle. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Combine this with a walk through the castle gardens.
Practical Tips for Your Brno Statue Tour
Most of these statues are located in the pedestrian-friendly city center. You can easily reach the start of your tour by tram. Check the DPMB - Brno Public Transport site for schedules. Most central stops are just a few minutes from Náměstí Svobody.
The best time for photography is early morning. The squares are less crowded before 9:00 AM. This allows you to get clear shots of the Astronomical Clock. If you visit in winter, dress warmly as the squares can be windy. Brno is very safe for walking at all hours.
Consider downloading a digital map of the city. While signs are helpful, some smaller statues are tucked away. Many cafes are located near the main stops. You can take a break at Zelný trh between sightings. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of Moravia's largest city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Brno astronomical clock statue located exactly?
The Brno astronomical clock statue is located in Náměstí Svobody (Freedom Square). It stands on the eastern side of the square near the intersection with Rašínova street. You can easily recognize it by its tall, black granite bullet shape.
What time does the Brno clock drop the marble?
The Brno astronomical clock drops a glass marble every day at 11:00 AM. This time commemorates the end of the Swedish siege. People gather at the four collection points at the base of the clock to catch it.
Is the Brno statue walking tour accessible for everyone?
Yes, most of the famous statues in Brno are located in the flat, pedestrianized city center. This makes the tour accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Only the Patafyzik statue near Špilberk Castle involves a slight uphill walk.
Brno offers a unique mix of history and modern art that you won't find elsewhere. Now that you know where is the Brno astronomical clock statue, you can start your adventure. Be sure to explore the other quirky sculptures like the giant horse and the legendary dragon. For a complete experience, follow a structured Brno old town walking circuit to see the best of the city. Enjoy your time in the heart of Moravia!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Go To Brno — Official tourism portal; unverified source.
- City of Brno — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
- UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat — International heritage designation; unverified source.
- Lonely Planet Brno — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.
