The Baroque Fountains in Olomouc Heritage

Olomouc is unique because it kept its baroque fountains. Most cities removed theirs when modern water pipes arrived. Olomouc chose to keep them as beautiful decorations. These fountains show stories from ancient Greek and Roman myths. They were built to provide water and protect the city from fire.

Today, they are the stars of any baroque fountains in Olomouc tour. The city originally had six of these stone structures. They were built in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Each one features a different hero or god. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal for seasonal events near the water.

The fountains are located in the main squares. They are within easy walking distance of each other. This makes Olomouc one of the best cities for a walking tour in Moravia. The craftsmanship of the stone carvers is still visible today. These sites are part of the city's rich cultural identity.

History of the Arion Fountain in Olomouc

The history of the Arion fountain in Olomouc began long after the baroque era. For centuries, a spot on the Upper Square remained empty. Plans for a seventh fountain existed since the 18th century. However, the project was not finished until 2002. It was designed to complete the set of historical fountains.

The famous sculptor Ivan Theimer created the fountain. He is a native of Olomouc who lives in France. He used bronze for the sculptures instead of the traditional stone. This creates a beautiful contrast with the surrounding buildings. You can see a map of all six baroque fountains in Olomouc and the Arion fountain online.

The fountain tells the myth of Arion. He was a Greek poet and musician. Legend says a dolphin saved him from the sea. Theimer added many small details to the bronze turtle and dolphin. Children love to touch the smooth bronze surfaces. It has become a modern symbol of the city's creative spirit.

11 Stops on a Baroque Fountains in Olomouc Tour

Use this list to plan your route through the city. These stops include the seven main fountains and nearby landmarks. Most are free to visit and located in public squares.

• Quick Pick: Best for Families: Arion Fountain (interactive sculptures).
• Quick Pick: Best for History: Caesar Fountain (largest in the city).
• Quick Pick: Best for Photos: Holy Trinity Column.

1. Name: Arion Fountain Type: Experience Why go: It is the only modern fountain in the set. The bronze turtle is a local favorite for photos. Best for: Families and art lovers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the tiny details hidden on the turtle's shell.
2. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This is the most famous and largest baroque fountain. It depicts Julius Caesar, the legendary founder of the city. Best for: History buffs. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit at night when it is beautifully lit.
3. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This massive monument is the largest of its kind in Central Europe. Best for: Everyone. Where: Upper Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Read about the Holy Trinity Column history before you go.
4. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It shows the hero Hercules fighting the Hydra. It is a powerful example of baroque drama. Best for: Photography. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is located right in front of the Town Hall.
5. Name: Olomouc Town Hall Type: Experience Why go: See the unique Astronomical Clock. It was redesigned in the Socialist Realist style after WWII. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view outside. Tip: The clock performs a show every day at noon.
6. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This fountain was the last of the original baroque set. It features the king of the gods with a lightning bolt. Best for: Myth lovers. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It sits at the top end of the Lower Square.
7. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It was the very first fountain built in the city. It features the god of the sea with his trident. Best for: History fans. Where: Lower Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Notice the four sea horses at the base.
8. Name: Mercury Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It is considered the most artistically valuable of the baroque fountains. It shows the messenger god. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Near the Prior department store. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is slightly tucked away from the main square.
9. Name: Triton Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This fountain features intricate carvings of sea monsters. It was moved to its current location in the 1880s. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is near the Museum of Art.
10. Name: Lower Square Type: Neighborhood Why go: This square is quieter than the Upper Square. It has a relaxed atmosphere with great cafes. Best for: A coffee break. Where: Dolní náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to walk. Tip: Try a local pastry at one of the bakeries here.
11. Name: Upper Square Type: Neighborhood Why go: This is the heart of the city. Most of the major fountains and monuments are located here. Best for: Starting your tour. Where: Horní náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: This is the best place for people-watching.

Practical Tips for Your Olomouc Fountain Walk

Walking is the best way to see the fountains. The city center is mostly pedestrian-friendly. You can see all the sights in about two to three hours. Wear comfortable shoes as some streets have cobblestones. The fountains usually run from April until late October.

If you visit in winter, the water is turned off. However, the sculptures are still beautiful to see. The Visit Czechia site has great info on winter markets. Olomouc is much less crowded than Prague. This makes it perfect for a peaceful weekend trip.

Don't forget to try the local cheese called Olomoucké tvarůžky. It has a very strong smell but a unique taste. You can find it in shops near the Upper Square. Many restaurants also serve it as a snack with beer. It is a true local experience.