Understanding the Brno astronomical clock meaning

The Brno astronomical clock is located in Náměstí Svobody (Freedom Square). It was completed in 2010 to mark the 365th anniversary of the Swedish siege. The clock is made of polished black granite from South Africa. Its bullet shape represents a cannonball. This design honors the city's defense during the Thirty Years' War in 1645. The Swedish army promised to leave if they did not win by noon.

To save the city, the local bell ringer rang the midday bells at 11:00 AM. The Swedes believed it was noon and stopped their attack. This is why the clock releases a glass marble every day at 11:00 AM instead of noon. People gather around the four openings to catch the marble as a souvenir. It is a fun local tradition that happens daily. You can find more details on the Go To Brno official tourism portal.

Reading the time on this clock is very difficult. It uses a complex system of rotating stone parts. Most locals do not use it to check the time. They view it as a piece of modern art and a historical tribute. The clock has become a symbol of the city's independent spirit. It is one of the most photographed spots in the Czech Republic.

10 unusual statues and sculptures in Brno

Brno is famous for its unconventional public art. You can walk through the city center to find these pieces. Each one has a story or a specific meaning. Here are the top 10 items for your list.

• Name: Courage (Statue of Jošt) Type: sight Why go: It is a giant knight on a horse with incredibly long legs. Best for: photographers Where: Moravian Square Time: 10 mins Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from the main square Tip: Stand directly under the horse's head and look up for a funny perspective.
• Name: Statue of Justice Type: sculpture Why go: It depicts a man lifting a heavy block over a fountain. Best for: art lovers Where: In front of the Supreme Administrative Court Time: 5 mins Cost: Free Getting there: Take tram 1 or 6 to Moravské náměstí Tip: It represents the struggle and weight of the judicial system.
• Name: The Naked Mozart Type: sight Why go: It is a unique statue of Mozart as a naked child with one wing. Best for: history buffs Where: In front of the Reduta Theatre Time: 5 mins Cost: Free Getting there: Check the location of the Mozart statue in Brno near Zelný trh. Tip: Mozart performed in the nearby theatre when he was only 11 years old.
• Name: The Brno Dragon Type: experience Why go: It is actually a preserved crocodile hanging from the ceiling. Best for: families Where: Old Town Hall entrance Time: 10 mins Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from the main square Tip: Read the legend of how the "dragon" was defeated with a bag of lime.
• Name: The Brno Wheel Type: sight Why go: A wooden wheel made by a wheelwright in a single day as a bet. Best for: folklore fans Where: Old Town Hall passage Time: 5 mins Cost: Free Getting there: Located right next to the Dragon Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Brno underground labyrinths nearby.
• Name: Paternoster Elevator Type: experience Why go: A rare, constantly moving wooden elevator without doors. Best for: thrill seekers Where: New Town Hall or Post Office Time: 15 mins Cost: Free Getting there: Near the main train station Tip: Do not be afraid to stay on as it loops at the top or bottom.
• Name: The Three-Headed Statue Type: sculpture Why go: A tribute to the poet Jan Skácel made of thousands of small metal pipes. Best for: literature fans Where: Špilberk Park Time: 15 mins Cost: Free Getting there: Walk up the hill toward Špilberk Castle Tip: The view of the city from this point is excellent.
• Name: Obelisk in Denis Gardens Type: viewpoint Why go: A tall stone needle commemorating the end of the Napoleonic Wars. Best for: sunset views Where: Denisovy sady Time: 20 mins Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Tip: This is the best spot to see the sunset over the city.
• Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: experience Why go: A Cold War nuclear shelter built into the hillside. Best for: history buffs Where: Husova street Time: 1 hour Cost: Paid Getting there: Book a 10-Z bunker tour in advance. Tip: They have a retro milk bar inside the bunker.
• Name: Veveří Castle Type: day trip Why go: A medieval castle overlooking the Brno Reservoir. Best for: nature lovers Where: 15km from city center Time: 4 hours Cost: Paid for interiors Getting there: Take tram 1 to Bystrc and then a boat or bus Tip: Visit in summer to enjoy the boat ride on the lake.

Planning your Brno art walking tour

Most of the unusual statues and sculptures in Brno are in the pedestrian zone. You can easily see the main items on foot within two hours. Start at Freedom Square to see the astronomical clock. Then walk toward the Old Town Hall and Zelný trh. This route covers the most famous landmarks and hidden gems.

For statues further away, use the excellent public transport system. You can check schedules on the DPMB public transport website. Trams run frequently and are very reliable. Buy a 24-hour ticket if you plan to visit Veveří Castle or the outskirts. This makes travel easy and affordable for any tourist.

The best time for photography is early morning or late afternoon. The light on the black granite clock is best before the crowds arrive. If you want to catch a marble, arrive at Freedom Square by 10:45 AM. Position yourself at one of the holes in the clock. It is a competitive but friendly daily event for visitors and locals alike.