The Fascinating History of Caesar Fountain on Upper Square

The Caesar Fountain was completed in 1725. It stands as a symbol of local pride. Sculptor Jan Jiří Schauberger created the impressive equestrian statue. He worked alongside master stonemason Václav Render. Render was also responsible for the Holy Trinity Column history and its grand design.

The fountain depicts Julius Caesar on a rearing horse. Legend says Caesar founded the city of Olomouc. Historians know this is just a myth. However, the city used this story to show its ancient roots. The statue faces toward the Michalský Hill. This is where a Roman camp allegedly stood.

At the base of the statue, you will see two male figures. These figures represent the Morava and Danube rivers. There is also a seated dog. The dog symbolizes the city's loyalty to the monarch. The fountain remains a masterpiece of Baroque art in Central Europe.

9 Essential Stops on an Olomouc Baroque Fountains Itinerary

Olomouc is famous for its "fountain trail." Most of these sights are within walking distance. You can easily follow a map of all six Baroque fountains in Olomouc to see them all. Here are the top stops to include on your visit.

• Best overall: Caesar Fountain
• Best for families: Arion Fountain
• Best UNESCO sight: Holy Trinity Column
• Best free activity: Walking the Upper Square

1. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous fountain in the city. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15-20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from any central hotel. Tip: Look for the details on the river god figures at the base.
2. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: sight Why go: This fountain shows the hero fighting a hydra. Best for: Fans of Greek mythology. Where: Upper Square, near the Town Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located 100 meters from the Caesar Fountain. Tip: This was the second Baroque fountain built in the city.
3. Name: Arion Fountain Type: experience Why go: A modern addition that fits the Baroque theme perfectly. Best for: Families with children. Where: Southwest corner of Upper Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from the Town Hall. Tip: Children are often allowed to splash in the water here during summer.
4. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: sight Why go: The oldest of the six Baroque fountains. Best for: Seeing the start of the city's fountain tradition. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from Upper Square. Tip: Check out the nearby Jupiter Fountain while you are in this square.
5. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: sight Why go: Features the king of gods with a thunderbolt. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Lower Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the opposite end of Lower Square from Neptune. Tip: This fountain was renovated in the early 18th century.
6. Name: Mercury Fountain Type: sight Why go: Considered the most artistically refined of the group. Best for: Those seeking hidden gems. Where: Near the Prior department store. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 2 minutes from the Upper Square. Tip: It is often less crowded than the main square fountains.
7. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a Baroque masterpiece. Best for: Everyone visiting Olomouc. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It stands right next to the Caesar Fountain. Tip: Visit the small chapel located inside the base of the column.
8. Name: Olomouc Town Hall Type: sight Why go: Home to a unique socialist-realist astronomical clock. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Center of Upper Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for tower tours. Getting there: The central point of the historic district. Tip: Watch the clock strike at 12:00 PM for the full show.
9. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: museum Why go: To see deeper history and regional masterpieces. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: A short walk from the Mercury Fountain. Tip: Check the Olomouc Museum of Art website for current exhibitions.

Practical Tips for Your Olomouc Fountain Tour

Plan your visit between May and October. This is when the water is usually running. The city turns off the fountains during the cold winter months. Early morning is the best time for photography. The light hits the Caesar Fountain perfectly at sunrise.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestones. Most of the historic center is pedestrian-only. You can find many cafes around the Upper Square. These are great for resting while you admire the views. For more details on the city, visit the Olomouc Tourism Portal for maps.

The city is very safe for tourists. You can easily see all major sights in one day. If you have more time, consider a historic walk in Olomouc to see the hidden courtyards. Most signs are in English and Czech. This makes navigation very simple for international visitors.