The Legend of the Arion Fountain Turtle Olomouc

The Arion Fountain is the newest addition to the city's famous collection. Completed in 2002, it was designed by sculptor Ivan Theimer. He is a native of Olomouc who lives in France. The fountain tells the story of Arion, a Greek poet and musician.

According to the myth, Arion was thrown overboard by sailors. A dolphin, charmed by his music, saved his life. In most versions, the dolphin carries him to shore. However, the legend of the Arion fountain turtle Olomouc takes a creative turn.

Theimer chose a giant turtle to be the central figure. The turtle represents stability and the long history of the city. It also serves as a playful element for children. You will see kids climbing on the smaller turtle shell nearby every summer.

The fountain is made of bronze and stone. It features intricate engravings of maps and historical texts. It stands as a bridge between the city's Baroque past and its modern future. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal about its construction.

9 Unusual Fountains and Statues in Olomouc

Exploring the city is easy on foot. You can follow a walking route for Olomouc Baroque fountains to see them all. Here are nine must-see spots.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Arion Fountain
• Best for families: The Turtle Shell
• Best history: Holy Trinity Column
• Best free: All city fountains

1. Name: Arion Fountain Type: sight Why go: To see the famous turtle and modern bronze work. Best for: Families and art lovers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main tram stop at Náměstí Republiky. Tip: Look for the hidden inscriptions on the turtle's back.
2. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the largest and most complex Baroque fountain in the city. Best for: History buffs. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the Town Hall. Tip: The statue depicts Julius Caesar, the city's legendary founder.
3. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: sight Why go: See the mythical hero fighting the multi-headed Hydra. Best for: Dramatic photos. Where: Upper Square, northern side. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: The fountain dates back to 1687.
4. Name: The Socialist Astronomical Clock Type: experience Why go: A rare example of socialist-realist art on a medieval building. Best for: Unique history. Where: Town Hall facade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Center of the Upper Square. Tip: Check the socialist astronomical clock Olomouc guide for the noon show.
5. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: sight Why go: Features the king of gods with a thunderbolt. Best for: Classical mythology fans. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk two minutes south from the Upper Square. Tip: This fountain was renovated in the late 19th century.
6. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the oldest Baroque fountain in Olomouc, built in 1683. Best for: Seeing early Baroque craftsmanship. Where: Lower Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easily reached on foot from the Jupiter fountain. Tip: Notice the four sea horses at the base.
7. Name: Triton Fountain Type: sight Why go: Features beautiful sculptures of dolphins and water deities. Best for: Artistic detail. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Olomouc Museum of Art. Tip: This is one of the most elegant designs in the city.
8. Name: Mercury Fountain Type: sight Why go: Experts consider this the most artistically valuable Baroque fountain. Best for: Art connoisseurs. Where: Near 8. května street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Look for the god Mercury holding his staff.
9. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of sculpture. Best for: Everyone. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central point of the historic district. Tip: Read about the Holy Trinity column to understand its religious meaning.

Planning Your Olomouc Fountain Tour

Most fountains are located in the pedestrian zone. This makes Olomouc a very walkable city. You should start your tour in the Upper Square. This area holds the highest concentration of monuments.

The fountains are usually active from April to October. In the winter, they are often covered to protect the stone. Visit during the evening to see them illuminated. The lights create a magical atmosphere in the old town.

Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. You can find many cafes near the squares. Grab a coffee and enjoy the view of the water. It is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.