Must-See Baroque Architecture in Olomouc Squares

The main squares of Olomouc serve as an open-air museum. You can find incredible stone carvings and water features here. These monuments were built to show the city's wealth and faith. Most are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site for their cultural value. Here are the top picks for your square-side stroll.

• Best overall: Holy Trinity Column
• Best for photos: Caesar Fountain
• Best free activity: Viewing the Marian Column
• Best for families: Exploring the Upper Square

1. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: iconic sight Why go: It is the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20–30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main tram stop at náměstí Republiky. Tip: Look for the small golden cannonball embedded in the column. Read more about the Holy Trinity Column history before you go.
2. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: sight Why go: This is the largest and most complex fountain in the city. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located just steps from the Town Hall. Tip: The statue depicts Julius Caesar, the legendary founder of the city.
3. Name: Marian Column Type: sight Why go: It was built as a thanks for the end of the plague. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short 5-minute walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Visit at night when the statues are beautifully lit.
4. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: sight Why go: It shows the hero Hercules fighting the Hydra. Best for: Fans of mythology. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the Astronomical Clock. Tip: Check out the Visit Czechia site for seasonal fountain schedules.

Grand Churches and Palatial Baroque Interiors

The skyline of Olomouc is defined by its massive domes and towers. These buildings offer a look at the spiritual life of the city. Inside, you will find gold leaf, frescoes, and dramatic altars. These are some of the best examples of baroque architecture in Olomouc for indoor exploration. Many of these sites are still active places of worship.

1. Name: Church of Saint Michael the Archangel Type: museum/indoor Why go: It features three distinct domes that dominate the skyline. Best for: Interior design fans. Where: Žerotínovo náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Usually free, donations welcome. Getting there: Walk up the hill from the Lower Square. Tip: You can climb the tower for a great view of the city.
2. Name: Archiepiscopal Palace Type: museum/indoor Why go: This is where Emperor Franz Joseph I was crowned. Best for: Royal history enthusiasts. Where: Wurmova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee for tours. Getting there: Located near the Cathedral in the historic center. Tip: Check the official website for guided tour times in English.
3. Name: Church of the Virgin Mary of the Snows Type: sight Why go: It has a stunning monumental facade and rich stucco work. Best for: Architecture students. Where: Denisova street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the Museum of Art. Tip: The acoustics here are amazing; look for concert listings.

Baroque Gems Just Outside the City Center

If you have extra time, head to the outskirts of the city. These locations are easy day trips from the center. They offer a mix of nature and grand design. You can reach them quickly by local public transport. These sites complete the story of Moravian Baroque art.

1. Name: Hradisko Monastery Type: day trip Why go: Often called the "Moravian Escorial" due to its massive size. Best for: Those who like grand scale. Where: Northern edge of Olomouc. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small fee for guided tours. Getting there: Take bus number 18 or 15 from the city center. Tip: It now serves as a hospital, so tours are limited to specific days.
2. Name: Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary Type: viewpoint/nature Why go: A stunning pilgrimage site on a hill overlooking the city. Best for: Views and fresh air. Where: Svatý Kopeček. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Free to enter the basilica. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Visit the nearby zoo after seeing the Baroque church.