The Legend: Why is the Brno Clock Shaped Like That?

The unique shape of the clock is a tribute to Brno's resilience. In 1645, during the Thirty Years' War, Swedish forces besieged the city. The Swedish General Torstenson declared he would leave if the city did not fall by noon. The locals were exhausted and knew they could not hold out much longer.

To save the city, the bell ringer at the cathedral rang the noon bells an hour early. At 11:00 AM, the Swedish general thought he had lost his bet and withdrew his army. This clever trick saved Brno from defeat. Today, the bells still ring for "noon" at 11:00 AM every single day.

The clock is shaped like a bullet to commemorate this historic victory. It is made of polished black granite from South Africa. Every day at 11:00 AM, a small glass marble drops through the mechanism. Lucky bystanders can try to catch it as a free souvenir from the city.

10 Best Attractions to Visit in Brno

Brno is a city that blends medieval history with modern design. Here are the top picks for your itinerary. Use these Brno highlights to plan your route through the city center.

• Best overall: Špilberk Castle
• Best for families: VIDA! Science Centre
• Best rainy-day: Labyrinth Under Vegetable Market
• Best free: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

1. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: Sight Why go: To see the unique bullet shape and try to catch a glass marble. Best for: History buffs and souvenir hunters. Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Any tram to Náměstí Svobody. Tip: Read more about the Brno astronomical clock history before you go.
2. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: This former royal castle offers the best views of the city and a dark history as a prison. Best for: Viewpoints and history. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate for museum entry; grounds are free. Getting there: A short uphill walk from the city center. Tip: Follow our guide for visiting Špilberk Castle to see the casemates.
3. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: This iconic Gothic cathedral is where the bells ring at 11:00 AM for noon. Best for: Architecture and quiet reflection. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (small fee for tower climb). Getting there: Short walk from the main train station. Tip: Climb the tower for a 360-degree view of Moravia.
4. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Experience Why go: A masterpiece of modern architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Best for: Design lovers and art fans. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: High (booking in advance is mandatory). Getting there: Tram 9 or 11 to Tomanova. Tip: You must book Villa Tugendhat tickets months in advance.
5. Name: Labyrinth Under Vegetable Market Type: Experience Why go: Explore a network of medieval cellars and tunnels used for food storage and alchemy. Best for: Families and rainy days. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground even in summer.
6. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe, holding the remains of over 50,000 people. Best for: Those interested in unique and macabre history. Where: Under the Church of St. James. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near Freedom Square. Tip: The lighting and music create a very peaceful atmosphere.
7. Name: Old Town Hall Type: Sight Why go: See the famous "Brno Dragon" (a crocodile) and the twisted Gothic pinnacle. Best for: Local legends. Where: Near the Vegetable Market. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to see the dragon; small fee for tower. Getting there: Center of the Old Town. Tip: The tourist information center is located inside this building.
8. Name: Parnas Fountain Type: Sight Why go: A stunning Baroque fountain located in the heart of the daily vegetable market. Best for: Photography and local atmosphere. Where: Zelný trh. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the main station. Tip: Visit in the morning to see the local farmers selling produce.
9. Name: Moravian Karst Type: Day Trip Why go: Explore incredible limestone caves and the deep Macocha Abyss. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: North of Brno. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Moderate for cave tours. Getting there: Train to Blansko, then a local bus. Tip: Book cave tours online early, especially for the Punkva Caves.
10. Name: Veveří Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: A romantic castle overlooking the Brno Reservoir. Best for: Couples and scenic walks. Where: On the edge of the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Take a boat ferry from the Brno Reservoir stop in summer. Tip: Combine this with a walk through the surrounding forest trails.

Essential Tips for Your Brno Adventure

Getting around Brno is very easy thanks to the excellent tram network. You can check schedules on the official DPMB website. Most of the historic center is pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot. Consider buying a 24-hour pass if you plan to visit the suburbs or Villa Tugendhat.

Brno is known for its vibrant cafe culture and student energy. Prices are generally lower here than in Prague. Try the local Moravian wine or a craft beer from one of the many microbreweries. Most restaurants offer a "daily menu" at lunch for a very affordable price.

The best time to visit is from May to September. During these months, the squares are full of outdoor seating and festivals. If you visit in December, the Christmas markets in Brno are among the most authentic in the country. Always carry some small change for public restrooms or market stalls.