Medieval Justice and Execution Sites

Public punishment was a common sight in medieval Olomouc. The city squares served as stages for both trade and justice. Criminals were often displayed to the public to serve as a warning. These sites remain central to the city today. You can still feel the weight of history in these open spaces.

• Best overall: The Olomouc Town Hall
• Best for families: Museum of Local History
• Best rainy-day: Archdiocesan Museum
• Best free: Upper Square Pillory Site

1. Name: Olomouc Town Hall Type: sight Why go: This was the center of legal power for centuries. It housed the city court and temporary holding cells. Best for: History buffs. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to view outside; small fee for tower. Getting there: Walk to the city center. Tip: Look for the old judicial symbols on the facade.
2. Name: The Executioner’s House (Katovna) Type: sight Why go: The executioner was a social outcast. He lived in this specific house near the city walls. Best for: Dark history enthusiasts. Where: Near the University walls. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior only). Getting there: A short walk from the Lower Square. Tip: The house is located near the old city gate for easy disposal of bodies.
3. Name: Upper Square Pillory Site Type: sight Why go: A pillory once stood here to shame local criminals. People would throw rotten food at those tied to it. Best for: Quick photo stop. Where: Near the Holy Trinity Column. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central tram stop at Náměstí Republiky. Tip: Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for seasonal walking tours.

Infamous Crimes and Royal Scandals

Not all crimes involved common thieves or petty brawlers. Olomouc was the site of a murder that changed Central European history. High-profile scandals often took place behind closed palace doors. These events left a lasting mark on the local culture. Exploring these sites helps you understand the high stakes of medieval politics.

1. Name: Archdiocesan Museum (The Deanery) Type: museum Why go: This is the site of the murder of King Wenceslas III in 1306. It ended the Přemyslid dynasty forever. Best for: Royal history. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Tram to the Cathedral stop. Tip: Visit the Olomouc Museum of Art website for current exhibition hours.
2. Name: Museum of Local History (Torture Exhibit) Type: museum Why go: This museum features a section on judicial history and torture devices. It shows how confessions were extracted in the past. Best for: Seeing physical artifacts. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Walk from the Upper Square. Tip: The exhibit is detailed, so it may be intense for very young children.
3. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Crypt Type: experience Why go: The crypt holds the remains of bishops and noblemen. It reflects the somber side of religious life and death. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Olomouc Castle grounds. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Tram 2, 3, 4, or 6. Tip: Dress warmly as the crypt stays cold even in summer.
4. Name: The Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: While a UNESCO World Heritage site, it was built after a devastating plague. It represents the city's survival of a different kind of "punishment." Best for: Iconic views. Where: Upper Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walkable from any central hotel. Tip: Use the haunted places to visit in Olomouc city center guide to find nearby ghost spots.

Military Prisons and Dark Fortifications

Olomouc was a major fortress city for the Habsburg Empire. Its walls did more than just keep enemies out. They also kept prisoners in. Military discipline was harsh, and the cells were often damp and dark. These structures show the architectural side of crime and punishment history in Olomouc.

1. Name: Terezská Gate (Theresian Gate) Type: sight Why go: This gate was part of the city's massive fortifications. It often housed guards and military detainees. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Palachovo náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: South side of the city center. Tip: Visit at night when the gate is beautifully illuminated.
2. Name: The Old City Jail (Hrnčířská Street) Type: sight Why go: This street was once known for its small, cramped prison cells. You can still see the narrow windows and heavy doors. Best for: Seeing the "common" prisoner's life. Where: Hrnčířská Street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior). Getting there: Near the Church of St. Michael. Tip: The street is very narrow and perfect for atmospheric photos.
3. Name: Crown Fortress (Korunní pevnůstka) Type: experience Why go: This large military complex had various uses, including barracks and storage. It represents the strict military rule of the 18th century. Best for: A long walk. Where: Near the Botanical Garden. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to enter the grounds; some museums charge. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the center. Tip: Check for local events or historical reenactments held here in 2026.