The Brno Astronomical Clock Explained

The Brno astronomical clock is a modern monument in Freedom Square. It is made of polished black granite from Africa. The clock commemorates the Swedish siege of 1645. During the Thirty Years' War, Swedish troops surrounded the city. The Swedish general said he would leave if the city did not fall by noon. The local bell ringer was clever. He rang the bells for noon at 11 AM instead.

The Swedes stopped their attack and left as promised. Today, the clock still honors this trick. Every day at 11 AM, the clock releases a glass marble. This is why the Brno astronomical clock explained often focuses on timing. People gather around the clock before 11 AM. They hope to catch one of the four marbles that drop through slots. It is a fun local tradition for tourists and residents alike.

Reading the time on this clock is quite difficult. It does not have traditional hands or numbers. Instead, rotating parts indicate the minutes and hours. Most people just enjoy the design rather than checking the time. It has become a symbol of the city's stubborn spirit. Make sure to arrive early if you want to catch a marble in 2026.

11 Best Things to Do in Brno

Brno is a city of layers, history, and vibrant culture. You can spend days exploring its hidden corners. Here are the top attractions to visit during your stay.

Quick picks for your trip:

• Best overall: Špilberk Castle
• Best for families: Labyrinth Under Vegetable Market
• Best rainy-day: Moravian Gallery
• Best free activity: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

1. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: It offers the best views of the city skyline. It was once a feared prison for political rebels. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: On a hill overlooking the city center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate for museum entry; park access is free. Getting there: A short walk uphill from Husova street. Tip: Visit the casemates to see the dark underground prison cells.
2. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: This iconic church sits on Petrov Hill. Its bells ring for noon at 11 AM, just like the clock. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to enter; small fee for the tower. Getting there: Walk from the main train station or Zelný trh. Tip: Climb the tower for a 360-degree view of Moravia.
3. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Experience Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a masterpiece of modern functionalist architecture. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Černá Pole neighborhood. Time: 2 hours. Cost: High; booking months in advance is required. Getting there: Take tram 3 or 5 to the Dětská nemocnice stop. Tip: Book your tickets at least 3-4 months before your visit.
4. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: Unique experience Why go: You can see naturally mummified monks from the 18th century. The unique air flow preserved their bodies perfectly. Best for: Fans of the macabre. Where: Capuchin Square near the Vegetable Market. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Two minutes on foot from the main square. Tip: Be respectful as this is a religious burial site.
5. Name: St. James Ossuary Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe after Paris. It holds the remains of over 50,000 people. Best for: History seekers. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located right in the city center near Rašínova street. Tip: The lighting and music create a very moving atmosphere.
6. Name: Labyrinth Under Vegetable Market Type: Neighborhood experience Why go: Explore the ancient cellars where food was once stored. It is a cool escape from summer heat. Best for: Families and curious travelers. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk to the historic market square. Tip: Wear a light jacket as the underground is always cold.
7. Name: Old Town Hall Type: Sight Why go: See the famous "Brno Dragon" (a crocodile) hanging in the passage. The crooked turret on the portal is also famous. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Radnická street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free for the passage; small fee for the tower. Getting there: Located between Freedom Square and the Vegetable Market. Tip: Ask the staff about the legend of the Brno wheel.
8. Name: Moravian Gallery Type: Museum Why go: It is the second-largest art museum in the country. It spans several beautiful historic buildings. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Multiple locations including Husova street. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by exhibition; some sections are free. Getting there: Use any tram to the city center. Tip: Check out the design shop for unique local souvenirs.
9. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Unique experience Why go: This was a secret nuclear shelter for city officials. You can explore the tunnels and see Cold War equipment. Best for: Modern history fans. Where: Under Špilberk hill. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is on Husova street. Tip: You can actually stay overnight in the bunker hostel.
10. Name: Villa Stiassni Type: Architecture Why go: A stunning 1920s villa with a massive garden. It hosted many famous world leaders. Best for: Quiet walks and history. Where: Hroznová street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram 1 to the Výstaviště stop. Tip: The gardens are often open even when the villa is closed.
11. Name: Mendel Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn about Gregor Mendel, the father of genetics. He lived and worked in this abbey. Best for: Science enthusiasts. Where: Mendlovo náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Take any tram to the Mendlovo náměstí hub. Tip: Visit the garden to see where he grew his famous peas.

Planning Your Visit to Brno in 2026

Brno is very easy to reach by train or bus. It sits on the main line between Prague and Vienna. The city center is compact and walkable. For longer trips, use the excellent Brno Public Transport system. You can buy tickets with a contactless card on every bus and tram. This makes getting around very simple for tourists.

Most attractions are open year-round. However, summer is the busiest season for festivals. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. In December, the Christmas markets in Freedom Square are magical. You can see the astronomical clock surrounded by festive stalls. Always carry some Czech Koruna for small shops, though cards are widely accepted.

Brno is generally a very safe city for travelers. People are friendly and many speak English. It is a university town, so it feels young and lively. Be sure to try the local Moravian wine. It is just as famous as the local beer. Plan to spend at least two full days to see everything on this list.