Why is the Old Town Hall Tower Crooked? Brno’s Famous Legend

Brno is a city full of quirks and legends. One of the most famous sights is the Old Town Hall. Visitors often stop and stare at the stone portal. They wonder why is the Old Town Hall tower crooked in its design. The central pinnacle of the Gothic entrance bends sharply to the side.

This architectural oddity is not a mistake. It is a deliberate act of defiance. Local legends tell a story of a master builder and a greedy city council. Understanding this tale adds magic to your visit to Brno. It is a highlight of any trip to the Moravian capital.

In this guide, we explore the history behind the bent turret. We also list the top things to see at this historic site. From dragons to hidden bunkers, Brno has much to offer. Let’s dive into the mysteries of the Old Town Hall crooked pinnacle and beyond.

The Legend: Why is the Old Town Hall Tower Crooked?

The story dates back to the early 16th century. The city council hired Master Anton Pilgram. He was a famous late-Gothic architect and sculptor. They wanted him to create a grand entrance for the town hall. Pilgram was a man of great talent and pride.

The council promised Pilgram a large sum of money for his work. However, as the project neared completion, they tried to pay him less. They thought they could cheat the artist. Pilgram was furious at this betrayal. He decided to leave a permanent mark of his anger.

He intentionally carved the middle stone pinnacle with a sharp bend. He told the council that their justice was just as crooked as his work. Today, this bent turret remains a symbol of his revenge. It is the first thing people notice when they arrive. This legend is a key part of why the building is so famous.

10 Best Sights at Brno Old Town Hall and Nearby

The Old Town Hall is more than just a crooked tower. It is the oldest secular building in the city. You can spend hours exploring its courtyards and rooms. Here are the top things to see during your visit to the heart of Brno.

Best overall: The Old Town Hall Tower Viewpoint
Best for families: The Brno Dragon
Best for history: The Gothic Portal
Best free sight: The Courtyard

Name: The Crooked Pinnacle Type: sight Why go: To see the result of Anton Pilgram's revenge against the city council. Best for: Architecture lovers and legend seekers. Where: Main entrance portal on Radnická street. Time: 5-10 minutes. Cost: Free to view from the street. Tip: Look closely at the intricate carvings around the bent turret.
Name: The Brno Dragon Type: experience Why go: See the legendary "dragon" that once terrorized the city, which is actually a stuffed crocodile. Best for: Families and fans of local folklore. Where: Hanging from the ceiling in the entrance passage. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Read the plaque nearby to learn how the dragon was finally defeated.
Name: The Brno Wheel Type: sight Why go: A wooden wheel made in a single day as part of a historical bet. Best for: History buffs. Where: Mounted on the wall in the entrance passage. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This wheel was allegedly rolled all the way from Lednice to Brno in 1638.
Name: Old Town Hall Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: Enjoy 360-degree views of the city from 63 meters high. Best for: Photographers and sightseers. Where: Entrance inside the courtyard. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Small admission fee (around 100 CZK). Tip: Consider climbing the Old Town Hall tower just before sunset for the best light.
Name: The Renaissance Courtyard Type: sight Why go: Admire the beautiful arcades and peaceful atmosphere inside the hall. Best for: A quiet break from the crowds. Where: Behind the main entrance passage. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Check the official tourism portal for seasonal events held here.
Name: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market) Type: market Why go: A vibrant historic square just steps from the Old Town Hall. Best for: Foodies and local atmosphere. Where: 2-minute walk from the tower. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to browse. Tip: Try the seasonal fruits or visit the underground labyrinth beneath the square.
Name: Brno Ossuary Type: sight Why go: Visit the second-largest ossuary in Europe, located under St. James Church. Best for: Those interested in unique and macabre history. Where: Jakubské náměstí, 5-minute walk away. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Paid entry. Tip: The Brno Ossuary is very popular, so book ahead during peak summer months.
Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: museum Why go: Explore a former nuclear shelter from the Cold War era. Best for: Modern history enthusiasts. Where: Near Špilberk Castle, 10-minute walk away. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Tip: The 10-Z Bunker often hosts exhibitions and has a retro milk bar inside.
Name: Špilberk Castle Type: sight Why go: A massive fortress that offers history, museums, and great park walks. Best for: A half-day trip within the city. Where: On the hill overlooking the city center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free for grounds; paid for museum and casemates. Tip: Walk up through the park for a scenic route away from traffic.
Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: day trip Why go: A world-famous UNESCO site and a masterpiece of modern architecture. Best for: Design and architecture fans. Where: Černopolní street, accessible by tram. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry; booking months in advance is essential. Tip: Visit the Villa Tugendhat page to see why this house changed modern living.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you climb the Old Town Hall tower in Brno?

Yes, you can climb the tower for a small fee. It offers a 360-degree view of the city center and Špilberk Castle. The climb involves stairs, so wear comfortable shoes. It is open seasonally, usually from April to October, but check local listings for current hours.

Who was the architect of the crooked pinnacle?

The architect was Anton Pilgram, a renowned Gothic sculptor. He worked on several famous buildings, including St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna. He allegedly bent the pinnacle in 1511 as a protest against the Brno city council for not paying his full fee.

Is the Brno dragon real?

The "dragon" hanging in the Old Town Hall is actually a taxidermied crocodile. It was a gift to the city hundreds of years ago. Local legends claim it was a monster that lived in the Svratka River, but it is actually an exotic animal from overseas.

The Old Town Hall is the heart of Brno’s historic center. Whether you are curious about why is the Old Town Hall tower crooked or want to see the famous dragon, it is a must-visit. The legend of Anton Pilgram reminds us that art often carries a message of justice. Don't forget to climb the tower for the best views in the city.

Brno is easily accessible via the public transport system. Start your journey at the Cabbage Market and wander through the narrow streets. For more ideas on what to see, check out our guide on unusual things to do in Brno. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant Czech city!

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.

Go To Brno — Official tourism portal; unverified source.
City of Brno — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat — International heritage designation; unverified source.
Lonely Planet Brno — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.