Summary
Brno is the Czech Republic’s second-largest city and possesses a diligent reputation, although commerce constitutes merely a small component of this eclectic city’s narrative.
Situated at the confluence of the Svitava and Svratka Rivers, Brno served as the capital of Moravia from the 1100s until the communist period. Consequently, a significant amount of heritage persists, allowing visitors to appreciate an array of Gothic and Baroque architecture along the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. However, what truly defines Brno is its dedication to the eccentric, intriguing, and occasionally unsettling.
This article outlines the top attractions in Brno.
1. Villa Tugendhat
No need for apprehension here. Open daily for guided tours, Villa Tugendhat ranks alongside Le Corbusier’s Villa Savoye in Paris as a seminal example of modern architecture. Constructed between 1928 and 1930, it was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and is celebrated as a UNESCO-listed masterpiece of functionalism.
This structure revolutionized architectural design with its open floor plans and expansive rear windows. The historical significance of Villa Tugendhat is as noteworthy as its design; the Tugendhats, a Jewish couple, were compelled to escape Brno after 1938. Subsequently, the villa became a stronghold for the Gestapo and later served as quarters for the Soviet army.
It was not until 1967 that Greta Tugendhat returned and initiated the restoration process.
2. The Old Town Hall
This location offers insight into Brno’s enduring sense of enjoyment, as well as a captivating view of the city from the tower. Upon approach, one might observe that one of the turrets on the Town Hall’s ornate facade appears slightly misaligned.
The narrative suggests that Anton Pilgram, the building’s architect, was denied payment by Brno’s City Council, leading him to intentionally distort the design. Alternatively, some claim he was simply intoxicated during construction.
The building dates back to the 1200s and served as part of the city’s defenses during the notable siege by Swedish forces in 1645. Further details on this event will follow.
3. The Town Hall’s Curios
Here, things begin to take a turn towards the peculiar. Suspended from the ceiling in the passage beneath the tower is an object resembling a large taxidermied crocodile. However, this marks the realm of the legendary Brno dragon.
In the city’s formative years, this creature terrorized the residents and their livestock until a resourceful butcher devised a plan involving a sack filled with lime. After consuming the sack, the dragon sought hydration and drank excessively, ultimately leading to its demise.
Mounted on the wall is the Brno wheel, a wagon wheel claimed to have been constructed and transported from Teplice, located 45 kilometers away, in a mere 12 hours as part of a medieval wager. This serves as a representation of Brno’s work ethic.
4. Gregor Mendel’s Abbey and Museum
The father of genetics lived predominantly in Brno and is recognized as one of the 19th century’s most influential scientists. At the Abbey of Saint Thomas, visitors can tour the garden where he conducted his renowned experiments with pea plants, which ultimately uncovered the principles of heredity.
For additional insights, the Mendel Museum, situated outside the old town, features comprehensive exhibits that elucidate his methodologies and the initial opposition he faced from the church regarding his experiments with mice.
Information regarding his ventures in beekeeping is also available; however, these have had a lesser impact on historical developments.
5. Špilberk Castle
As the seat of Moravian rulers, this structure has existed for nearly as long as Brno itself. Consequently, it showcases a diverse range of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque. This substantial hilltop fortress has served multiple functions and has witnessed considerable historical events throughout its existence.
Similar to the Town Hall, Špilberk Castle played a role in repelling the Swedish army during the siege of the Thirty Years’ War in the 1600s.
During this period, it also functioned as a prison, accommodating and torturing Protestants, given that Brno was a predominantly Catholic city. The museum onsite explains why ending up in Špilberk was something to avoid for those of the incorrect denomination.
6. Capuchin Monastery
Continuing with the somber atmosphere, the Capuchin Monastery located on Kapucínské Square is not suited for the faint of heart. The façade and ground level are exquisite, offering no hint of the macabre hidden below.
The structure features Baroque design, complemented by an elaborately decorated rococo interior, which includes a remarkable fresco and a well-preserved library filled with ancient texts extending to lofty ceilings.
However, upon venturing downstairs, one encounters an 18th-century crypt where members of the Capuchin order and other notable figures from that era rest mummified as if they have chosen to slumber for 200 years.
7. Modern Architecture
In conjunction with Villa Tugendhat, Brno experienced a surge in architectural innovation during the early 20th century, resulting in numerous striking landmarks situated beyond the old town. Presently, Brno is adorned with around 70 functionalist buildings.
Architecture enthusiasts can utilize downloadable guides to navigate a walking tour to uncover these historical gems. By investing time in exploration, you will be rewarded with remarkable yet lesser-known sites, most of which retain their original purposes for public and residential utility.
In central Brno, look out for Žáckův rodinný dům, Bassova vila, and Haasova vila, state-of-the-art residences constructed for Brno’s elite in the 1920s and 1930s.
8. Cathedral of Saint Peter and Paul
The Swedish siege of Brno in 1645 made a lasting impact on the city, leading to an intriguing peculiarity with the cathedral’s clocks.
In an unusual tale, it is said that the Swedes promised to abandon their conquest if they had not succeeded by noon on August 15, 1645.
Astutely, the defenders of Brno advanced their clock by one hour, prompting it to chime at 11 instead of 12. To this day, the midday chimes resonate at 11.
9. Brno Underground
Beneath the Cabbage Market in the old town lies an intricate labyrinth of tunnels and chambers. These were made accessible to the public in 2011 as part of an engaging 40-minute walking tour. The square above has its origins in the 1200s, and many of the passageways below have similar historical significance.
Visitors will see how provisions were preserved during the medieval period, explore an antique wine cellar, and examine an authentic alchemist’s laboratory.
As is often the case in a historic place like Brno, there exists a darker side—here you will find a genuine pillory, a device used for public punishment during the Middle Ages.
10. The Cabbage Market
Above the underground passages lies a marketplace that has remained active since the 1200s. Visitors can still purchase fresh produce at the farmers’ market while also exploring various surrounding monuments.
One such monument is the Parnas Fountain, adorned with a statue of Hercules. Historically, fishmongers showcased their wares by allowing their carp to swim in the fountain.
Adjacent to the south lies Reduta Theatre, a concert hall dating back to the Renaissance era, where an 11-year-old Mozart performed alongside his sister in 1767.
11. Brno MotoGP
Another noteworthy aspect of Brno is its association with motorcycling sports. The city has been linked with this activity since 1930, and for several years, the Masaryk Circuit functioned as a challenging street race on cobblestones.
After the circuit was paved with asphalt in the 1960s, Brno became a staple in the World Grand Prix circuit, and the street course was eventually superseded by a dedicated facility in 1987.
Every August, MotoGP arrives in the city, bringing three exhilarating days of action with elite riders from around the globe.
12. The Church of Saint James
A remarkable national monument, this church has remained unscathed for nearly 500 years, with origins tracing back to the 1200s.
This beautiful Gothic edifice showcases towering vaulted ceilings, but recent excavations have revealed a rather grim aspect beneath.
For those willing to delve deeper, there exists the largest ossuary in Europe outside of the Paris Catacombs. Opened in 2012, it houses the remains of approximately 50,000 individuals, with bones and skulls meticulously arranged in decorative patterns and stacks.
13. Macocha Abyss
This sinkhole, located thirty minutes north of the city, resembles a scene from a fantasy film. The Macocha Abyss is part of the Punkva cave system and attracts both dedicated subterranean explorers and casual tourists desiring to experience the deepest sinkhole in Central Europe.
The Abyss formed after the ceiling of a deep cave collapsed, creating a feature that is integral to a sprawling and labyrinthine tunnel network, which can be explored on foot during guided tours and subsequently by boat within the cathedral-like depths of the Abyss.
Aboveground, a scenic trail through the rugged landscape is popular among walkers and cyclists.
14. Brno Dam
The optimal time to visit Brno’s dam is after sunset during late May and early June, when teams from around the globe compete for prestigious accolades at the Ignis Brunensis fireworks festival.
This celebration began as a simple exhibition but evolved into a competitive event in 2003, attracting high-tech pyrotechnics companies eager to demonstrate their capabilities. This spirit of competition benefits the audience, as increasingly elaborate displays are beautifully reflected in the reservoir’s waters.
During the day, visitors flock to the reservoir’s wooded shores in summer for boating, water activities, and cycling.
15. Brno’s Parks
Lužánky Park holds the distinction of being the first public park in what is now the Czech Republic, earning it national monument recognition. The Jesuits were instrumental in its establishment, using the grounds for contemplation and relaxation. Upon their expulsion in the late 1790s, Lužánky was redesigned in the French formal style, later transitioning to a botanical garden featuring an ornamental stream.
Denis Gardens serve as a link between the Cathedral of Peter and Paul and Špilberk Castle. For those who are prepared to navigate the slope, the park abounds with surprises, including 19th-century gazebos and an elegant colonnade.
Various lookout platforms provide arguably the most romantic vistas in Brno.
