10 Reasons Why the Holy Trinity Column is UNESCO Listed

The column is more than just a stone pillar. It is a complex work of art with dozens of statues. It serves as a focal point for the city's main square. Here are the top features and nearby attractions to include in your trip.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: The Holy Trinity Column
• Best for families: Arion Fountain
• Best view: Saint Moritz Church Tower
• Best free activity: Upper Square walking tour

1. Name: The Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: It is the largest group of Baroque statues in one monument in Central Europe. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the city center tram stops. Tip: Look for the golden cannonball that marks the 1758 siege.
2. Name: The Inner Chapel Type: experience Why go: It is the only plague column in the world with a functional chapel inside its base. Best for: Unique architecture lovers. Where: Inside the base of the column. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Entrance is on the ground level of the column. Tip: The chapel is usually open during the summer tourist season.
3. Name: The Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Type: neighborhood Why go: This historic square provides the perfect architectural context for the column. Best for: People watching and atmosphere. Where: Olomouc City Center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central hub for all city trams. Tip: Visit at night when the column is beautifully illuminated.
4. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: Located on the Town Hall, it features a rare socialist-realist design from the 1950s. Best for: Quirky history. Where: North side of the Town Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 50 meters from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Be there at noon to see the figures move.
5. Name: The Arion Fountain Type: experience Why go: A modern masterpiece that completes the square's collection of Baroque fountains. Best for: Families and art fans. Where: Southwest corner of the Upper Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from the main column. Tip: The turtle statues are a favorite for children to climb.
6. Name: Saint Moritz Church Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: The church tower offers the best bird's-eye view of the UNESCO column and city. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Just behind the Upper Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: 2-minute walk from the column. Tip: The stairs are steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
7. Name: Olomouc Archdiocesan Museum Type: museum Why go: It houses incredible religious art that explains the spiritual climate of the Baroque era. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Near the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approximately 150 CZK. Getting there: 10-minute walk or short tram ride from the center. Tip: Do not miss the ornate golden carriage of the archbishops.
8. Name: Tasting Olomoucké tvarůžky Type: experience Why go: This is the only original Czech cheese, famous for its strong aroma and low fat. Best for: Foodies. Where: Local shops and restaurants around the square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 50-200 CZK. Getting there: Look for the specialized ALois shop near the Town Hall. Tip: Try it on fresh bread with plenty of butter.
9. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: day trip Why go: A stunning romantic castle that looks like it belongs in a fairytale. Best for: Day trips. Where: 35km northwest of Olomouc. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: 200-300 CZK for tours. Getting there: Best reached by car or organized bus tour. Tip: Many Czech movies were filmed here because of its beauty.
10. Name: Kroměříž Archbishop's Palace Type: day trip Why go: Another UNESCO site nearby with world-famous Baroque gardens. Best for: Nature and garden lovers. Where: 45km south of Olomouc. Time: Full day. Cost: 200 CZK for garden entry. Getting there: Direct train from Olomouc takes about 45 minutes. Tip: Visit the Flower Garden for incredible symmetrical landscapes.

The Artistic Value of the Holy Trinity Column

The UNESCO World Heritage Centre lists this site for its unique artistic expression. Most plague columns were designed by famous architects from major capitals. This one was created by local craftsmen and citizens. It shows the spirit of the people of Olomouc. The history of the Holy Trinity Column in Olomouc is a tale of perseverance. It took nearly 40 years to finish. The column stands 35 meters high. It features 18 statues of saints and 12 light-bearers. All these figures are carved from local sandstone. The top is crowned with a gilded copper sculpture. This combination of materials is very rare. It creates a striking visual impact against the sky.

Planning Your Visit to Olomouc in 2026

Getting to Olomouc is quite simple for most travelers. You can take a fast train from Prague. The trip takes about two hours. The trains are modern and offer great views of the countryside. Once you arrive, the Olomouc city guide can help you find your hotel. Most major sights are in the pedestrian zone. You can easily walk between the squares. The city is very safe and welcoming. If you visit in 2026, check for local festivals. The city often hosts Baroque music concerts. These events take place near the column. They offer a magical way to experience the local culture.

Check the Visit Czechia - Olomouc website for current event dates. It is helpful to book your accommodation early. The city is popular during the summer months. However, the fall is also a beautiful time to visit. The autumn leaves make the Baroque architecture look even better. Always carry some local currency (Czech Koruna) for small shops. Most large restaurants will accept credit cards.