What to See and Do in Olomouc

Astronomical Clock (Orloj)

There are only two astronomical clocks in the country, and the one in Olomouc was remodeled in the style of social-realism popular in the communist era. Some people love it, some hate it and most think it's quirky, but it's worth being there for the mechanical performance at noon to make up your own mind. The clock is part of the town hall building on Horní náměstí (Upper Square).


Olomouc University

Palacký University in Olomouc was established in 1573, which makes it the second oldest university in the Czech Republic. Its departments include law, music, fine arts, languages, education, environmental sciences, philosophy, theology, and medicine. Being a college town, Olomouc has lots of cafés and bars, plenty of cultural activity, and an overall lively feel.


Churches and St. Wenceslas Cathedral

As Moravia's capital until the 17th century, the most important religious buildings of the land were built in Olomouc. The 900 year old St. Wenceslas Cathedral (Dóm Svatého Václava) dominates the city skyline with the tallest spire in Moravia (second tallest in the country). The current and former archbishop's palaces are accessible to the public and there seems to be a church or chapel around every corner.


Parks and Gardens

The ring of parks that grew up when most of the city walls were demolished separates the old town from the new. A branch of the Morava River runs through Bezruč Park (Bezručovy Sady) and there are several defense towers remaining from the old city walls, two of which you can climb. The botanical gardens are within the parks, and the greenhouses have aquarium exhibits from the nearby zoo.

The well-respected Olomouc Zoo is on a hillside overlooking the city and actively participates in the protection of more than 50 endangered species.


Sculpture

Olomouc is a city of public sculpture. The Holy Trinity Column on the main square (Horní náměstí) represents a unique sculptural style, Olomouc Baroque, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The city's six Baroque fountains that are scattered around its two main squares have been joined by a seventh modern fountain on Horní náměstí (Upper Square), which has become the favourite of locals and visitors alike.