The History of the Olomouc Fortress

Olomouc was transformed into a powerful fortress during the 1700s. Empress Maria Theresa ordered the construction of modern defenses. These walls protected the city from Prussian invasions for many years. You can still see the UNESCO-listed heritage within the city center today. The military eventually decommissioned the fortress in the late 19th century.

Instead of destroying everything, the city built parks along the wall lines. This created a green ring around the historic core. This unique layout makes Olomouc city walls and parks easy to explore on foot. You will find a mix of massive stone walls and peaceful gardens. It is a perfect blend of military history and nature.

Before you start your walk, here are some quick picks for your visit:

• Best overall: Bezručovy Sady
• Best for photos: Terezská Brána
• Best for families: Korunní pevnůstka
• Best free activity: Walking the park ring

9 Best Spots for Seeing the Remnant Theresian Walls in Olomouc

There are several locations where the historic fortifications remain visible. Most are located within the ring of parks surrounding the Old Town. Each spot offers a different perspective on the city's defensive past. Use this list to plan your route through the city.

1. Name: Bezručovy Sady Type: Sight/Park Why go: This park contains the longest continuous stretch of the city walls. Best for: Scenic walks and history lovers. Where: South side of the city center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Lower Square. Tip: Use the walking route through Bezrucovy Sady park for the best views.
2. Name: Terezská Brána (Theresian Gate) Type: Sight Why go: It is the only fully preserved gate from the Theresian era. Best for: Architecture fans and photographers. Where: Palachovo náměstí. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the main post office. Tip: Look for the decorative relief of Empress Maria Theresa.
3. Name: Korunní pevnůstka (Crown Fortress) Type: Experience Why go: This was once a central ammunition depot and military area. Best for: Families and science fans. Where: Near the Botanical Garden. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free to enter the grounds. Getting there: Walk through Bezručovy Sady. Tip: Visit the "Fortress of Knowledge" museum located inside.
4. Name: Michalský výpad (St. Michael’s Sally Port) Type: Sight Why go: A steep, narrow staircase that cuts directly through the medieval and Theresian walls. Best for: Quick shortcuts and unique photos. Where: Behind St. Michael’s Church. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the church courtyard. Tip: The view from the top of the stairs is excellent.
5. Name: Botanical Garden Walls Type: Sight Why go: The garden uses the old fortress bastions as natural boundaries. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Inside the Crown Fortress area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Enter via Bezručovy Sady. Tip: Visit in June to see the roses in full bloom.
6. Name: Litovelská Brána (Litovel Gate) Type: Sight Why go: This historic gate was moved from its original location to the park edge. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Near Čechovy Sady. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the tram to the "Náměstí Hrdinů" stop. Tip: It stands near the modern city center.
7. Name: Smetanovy Sady Defenses Type: Park Why go: These gardens follow the outer defensive line of the fortress. Best for: Long walks and flower shows. Where: West of the city center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the Terezská Brána. Tip: Check the local calendar for the Flora Olomouc exhibition.
8. Name: Čechovy Sady Type: Park Why go: This park offers a view of how the walls integrated with the city moat. Best for: A quiet afternoon break. Where: Northwest of the center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Litovelská Brána. Tip: Visit the nearby Red Church after your walk.
9. Name: Fortress XVII Křelov Type: Day trip Why go: A perfectly preserved fort that was part of the outer defense ring. Best for: Military history buffs. Where: Křelov village (5 km from Olomouc). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid guided tours. Getting there: Short drive or local bus from Olomouc. Tip: Book tours in advance to ensure availability.

Tips for Your Historic Walk in Olomouc

Plan your walk for the morning or late afternoon. The light on the stone walls is beautiful during these times. Most sites are free and open all day. You can follow a historic walk in Olomouc to see the main sights. Wear comfortable shoes because many paths are made of cobblestones.

For more details, visit the Olomouc Tourism Portal for maps. They offer printed guides for the fortress route. You can also find information about seasonal events in the parks. Most of the walls are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some sally ports have steep stairs.