The Legend of the Old Town Hall Crooked Pinnacle

The story of the Old Town Hall crooked pinnacle begins in 1511. The city council hired a master builder named Anton Pilgram. They wanted a grand entrance for their municipal building. Pilgram was a talented but temperamental artist who expected fair pay.

Legend says the council refused to pay the full agreed amount. Pilgram was furious at this betrayal. He decided to leave a permanent mark of his anger. He intentionally bent the middle turret of the ornate portal. This act of defiance created the famous crooked pinnacle we see today.

Some historians suggest the bend was simply a late Gothic style. They believe it was meant to show off technical skill. However, locals prefer the story of the vengeful architect. It adds a layer of mystery to the historic city center.

Today, the portal remains one of Brno's most photographed spots. It stands as a symbol of the city's unique character. Visitors often stop to marvel at the detail before heading inside. The building itself now serves as a tourist information center.

10 Must-See Brno Sights Near the Crooked Pinnacle

Brno is easy to explore on foot. Most major attractions are close to the Old Town Hall. Here are the top picks for your 2026 itinerary.

• Best for views: Old Town Hall Tower
• Best for history: Spilberk Castle
• Best for families: Brno Dragon
• Best for unique vibes: St. James Ossuary

1. Name: Old Town Hall Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the city center. You can see the crooked pinnacle from below and the whole city from above. Best for: Photographers and first-time visitors. Where: Radnická street, City Center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approximately 100 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Visit at sunset for the most beautiful light.
2. Name: The Brno Dragon Type: Unique local experience Why go: This is actually a preserved crocodile hanging in the Old Town Hall passage. It is linked to many famous Brno legends. Best for: Families and fans of folklore. Where: Old Town Hall entrance. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Located in the same building as the pinnacle. Tip: Look for the wooden wheel hanging next to it.
3. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of modern architecture. It was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 400-450 CZK. Getting there: Take Tram 9 or 11 from the center. Tip: Book tickets several months in advance as they sell out fast.
4. Name: Spilberk Castle Type: Museum Why go: This massive fortress was once a feared prison. It now houses the Brno City Museum and offers great park walks. Best for: History buffs and hikers. Where: Spilberk Hill. Time: 3 hours. Cost: 150-300 CZK depending on the tour. Getting there: Walk uphill from Husova street. Tip: Visit the casemates to see the dark history of the prison.
5. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Iconic sight Why go: Its twin towers dominate the skyline. The interior is stunning and the bells ring noon at 11:00 AM. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the nave; small fee for towers. Getting there: Short walk from the main train station. Tip: Climb the towers for a different perspective of the city.
6. Name: Labyrinth Under the Vegetable Market Type: Experience Why go: Explore a network of medieval cellars and tunnels deep underground. It shows how food was stored centuries ago. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Around 200 CZK. Getting there: Walk 2 minutes from the Old Town Hall. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground even in summer.
7. Name: St. James Ossuary Type: Experience Why go: This is the second-largest ossuary in Europe after Paris. It is a deeply moving and unique site. Best for: Those interested in the macabre. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 160 CZK. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes north of Freedom Square. Tip: Respect the quiet atmosphere of this burial site.
8. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Museum Why go: This Cold War nuclear shelter is built into the rock under Spilberk. It offers an immersive historical experience. Best for: Modern history fans. Where: Husova street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 180 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center towards the castle. Tip: You can actually stay overnight in the hostel part of the bunker.
9. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: Experience Why go: See the mummified remains of monks and local nobles. The natural air flow preserved the bodies. Best for: History and science enthusiasts. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: 100 CZK. Getting there: Near the Vegetable Market. Tip: Read the inscriptions for fascinating stories about the deceased.
10. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: Iconic sight Why go: This modern black marble monument is shaped like a bullet. It releases a glass marble every day at 11:00 AM. Best for: Quirky art fans. Where: Freedom Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central point of the pedestrian zone. Tip: Stand at one of the holes at 11:00 AM to catch a marble.

Planning Your Visit to the Old Town Hall

Visiting the Old Town Hall is straightforward. The building is open daily during the main tourist season. You can find the official tourism portal for the latest hours. The information center inside can help with maps and booking tours.

To see the pinnacle, just stand in front of the main portal. Access to the tower requires a ticket. The climb involves many steps but the view is worth it. Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the whole complex.

Brno is very walkable. However, you can use the excellent public transport system for longer trips. Trams are the most common way to get around. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on the vehicle.

Try to visit early in the morning. This helps you avoid the largest groups of tourists. The area around the hall is filled with cafes. It is a great place to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.

Beyond the Old Town Hall Crooked Pinnacle

Brno is famous for its quirky statues. Besides the pinnacle, look for the long-legged horse on Moravian Square. The city doesn't take itself too seriously. This makes exploring the streets a fun and surprising experience.

The local food scene is thriving. Visit the Vegetable Market for fresh local produce. In the evenings, the city comes alive with unique bars. Brno is often called the coffee capital of the Czech Republic.

Safety in Brno is generally very high. It is a student city with a friendly vibe. Standard travel precautions are usually enough. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Make sure to explore the hidden courtyards. Many historic buildings hide beautiful cafes and shops. Brno is a city that rewards those who wander. You will find something interesting around every corner.