Why Olomouc is the City of Baroque Fountains

Most European cities removed their old fountains when they built modern water pipes. Olomouc decided to keep its Baroque treasures instead. This decision created one of the best-preserved collections of Baroque art in Central Europe. The city leaders wanted to show off their power and culture. They used themes from Greek and Roman mythology for each fountain.

The fountains are located in the historic center. This area is very easy to explore on foot. Each statue tells a different story about the city's past. The craftsmanship is incredibly detailed and impressive. Many visitors come here specifically to see these stone masterpieces.

The fountains are part of a larger artistic movement. This movement includes the famous Holy Trinity Column. This column is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Together, these monuments make the city squares feel like an open-air museum. You will feel like you have stepped back in time.

The Essential List of All Six Baroque Fountains in Olomouc

The following list covers the six original Baroque fountains. These are the main historical attractions in the city center. Most are located on the two main squares. You can see all of them in a single afternoon walk. Here is the complete list for your itinerary.

1. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous fountain in the city. It depicts the legendary founder of Olomouc. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the center of the Upper Square near the Town Hall. Tip: Look for the small dog statue at the base of the monument.
2. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: Viewpoint Why go: This fountain shows the hero Hercules fighting a hydra. It offers a great view of the Astronomical Clock. Best for: Mythological art fans. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí), northern part. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is a short walk from the Caesar Fountain. Tip: Visit at noon to see the nearby clock show at the same time.
3. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the oldest of the six Baroque fountains. It was completed in 1683 and features the god of the sea. Best for: Seeing the earliest Baroque styles. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the Upper Square to the Lower Square. Tip: The fountain is beautifully lit at night.
4. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: It features the king of the gods with a lightning bolt. It sits in the heart of the Lower Square market area. Best for: Soaking up the local square atmosphere. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí), southern part. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the opposite end of the Neptune Fountain. Tip: Check out the nearby cafes for a quick coffee break.
5. Name: Mercury Fountain Type: Iconic sight Why go: This fountain is considered the most artistically advanced. It shows the god of commerce and travelers. Best for: Art students and critics. Where: Intersection of 8. května and Denisova streets. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from the Lower Square toward the tram tracks. Tip: This fountain is often quieter than the ones on the main squares.
6. Name: Triton Fountain Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: It features sea deities and dolphins in a very dynamic pose. It is located right next to the Museum of Art. Best for: Combining with a museum visit. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the tram to the Náměstí Republiky stop. Tip: The statues are very expressive and look great in close-up photos.

Bonus: Modern Additions and Nearby Baroque Landmarks

While the six Baroque fountains are the main draw, there is more to see. The city added a modern fountain in 2002 to complete the set. There are also massive religious columns that dominate the squares. These sites are essential for any walking tour of the city.

• Name: Arion Fountain Type: Unique local experience Why go: This modern fountain fits perfectly with the Baroque style. It features a giant turtle that children love to climb. Best for: Families with children. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí), near the Town Hall. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is located right next to the Caesar Fountain. Tip: This is the only fountain where people often dip their feet in summer.
• Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is a massive UNESCO monument. It is the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe. Best for: Everyone visiting Olomouc. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: You cannot miss it in the center of the main square. Tip: Read about the Holy Trinity Column history before you go.
• Name: Marian Column Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: Built after a plague epidemic, this column is a beautiful piece of religious art. It stands proudly in the Lower Square. Best for: Seeing religious history. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located between the Neptune and Jupiter fountains. Tip: Look for the statues of saints at the base of the column.

How to Plan Your Olomouc Fountain Walking Tour

Planning your walk is very simple. Start at the Upper Square to see the largest monuments. Then move to the Lower Square for the quieter fountains. Finally, head to Republic Square to finish your tour. This route takes about 60 to 90 minutes at a slow pace.

Most fountains operate from April until late October. During winter, the water is turned off to protect the stone. However, the statues are still visible and look beautiful in the snow. Summer is the best time for the full experience. You can hear the splashing water throughout the historic center.

The entire city center is a pedestrian zone. Wear comfortable shoes because the streets are made of cobblestones. You can reach the center easily by tram from the main train station. Most tram lines will take you to the "Náměstí Hrdinů" or "Okresní soud" stops. From there, it is just a short walk to the squares.