Why the Baroque Fountains in Olomouc are Unique

The fountains in Olomouc are not just decorations. They were originally built as a practical water supply for the city. After the Thirty Years' War, the city decided to beautify these sites. Most cities destroyed their fountains when modern pipes arrived. Olomouc chose to preserve them as high art. This decision created a unique open-air gallery that survives today.

Each fountain features a specific figure from Roman mythology. This choice was meant to link Olomouc to the glory of ancient Rome. Local legends even claim the city was founded by Julius Caesar. You can learn more about this grand vision in our Olomouc highlights guide. The craftsmanship of the stone carvings is truly world-class.

The fountains are grouped around the main squares. This makes it very easy to visit them on foot. You can see the evolution of baroque style in each statue. Some are dramatic and full of movement. Others are more serene and classical. Together, they create a sense of harmony in the urban landscape. It is a rare experience for any history lover.

9 Essential Stops on a Baroque Fountains in Olomouc Tour

This list covers the six original baroque fountains and three nearby must-see sights. Following this order will lead you through the most beautiful parts of the city. You can use a map of all six baroque fountains in Olomouc to stay on track. Most stops are within five minutes of each other.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Caesar Fountain
• Best for kids: Arion Fountain
• Best for history: Holy Trinity Column
• Best free activity: All fountains are free to view

1. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: sight Why go: This is the largest and most famous fountain in the city. It depicts the legendary founder of Olomouc on a horse. Best for: Iconic photos and history fans. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look at the statue's face; it is pointed toward the Town Hall.
2. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: sight Why go: It shows the hero Hercules fighting the Hydra. It symbolizes the city's strength and resilience. Best for: Seeing dramatic baroque action. Where: Upper Square, near the Astronomical Clock. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Check out the Astronomical Clock nearby while you are here.
3. Name: Arion Fountain Type: experience Why go: This modern fountain was built in 2002 to complete the original baroque set. It features a friendly turtle and the poet Arion. Best for: Families and children who want to touch the water. Where: Upper Square, southwest corner. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Read about the history of the Arion fountain in Olomouc to see how it fits the set.
4. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: sight Why go: Jupiter is the king of the gods, shown with his lightning bolts. It was the last of the six baroque fountains to be completed. Best for: Seeing late-baroque detail. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: The Lower Square is often quieter than the Upper Square for photos.
5. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: sight Why go: This was the very first baroque fountain built in the city. It shows the god of the sea holding a trident. Best for: Fans of early baroque design. Where: Lower Square, northern end. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Compare its simple lines to the more complex Caesar fountain.
6. Name: Mercury Fountain Type: sight Why go: Mercury is the protector of merchants, which was vital for this trading city. It is considered the most artistically valuable fountain. Best for: Art students and detail seekers. Where: 28. října Street, near the square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is located slightly off the main square in a charming side street.
7. Name: Triton Fountain Type: sight Why go: This fountain features elaborate dolphins and sea shells. It creates a very different atmosphere from the others. Best for: Nature-inspired art. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This square is home to the Olomouc Museum of Art.
8. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: This UNESCO monument is the largest baroque sculptural group in Central Europe. It stands right next to the fountains. Best for: Seeing world-class UNESCO heritage. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: You can enter a small chapel at the base of the column during summer.
9. Name: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: A massive Gothic cathedral that provides a stunning backdrop to the city's history. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Tip: It is a 10-minute walk from the main fountain route.

Planning Your Walking Route Through the Old Town

A baroque fountains in Olomouc tour is best done in a loop. Start at the Upper Square to see the largest monuments first. This area includes the Caesar and Hercules fountains. You can find more details in our Upper and Lower Square guide. Most visitors spend about two hours on this walk.

Morning is the best time for photography. The light hits the stone carvings beautifully before noon. In the evening, the fountains are often lit up. This creates a romantic atmosphere for a late-night stroll. You can find many cafes nearby to rest between stops. For more information, visit the Olomouc Tourism Portal for current event schedules.

Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are mostly cobblestone. The route is very flat and accessible for everyone. If you have extra time, consider a short walk to the city walls. You can read about the Olomouc parks and fortress walls for a nature break. The city is very safe and easy to navigate in 2026.