Olomouc, besides the extraordinary architectural heritage of the Baroque period, is a historic city that boasts a vibrant cultural life, strong popular traditions, and a delicious typical cuisine. Its still authentic atmospheres can be experienced by walking through a city never overwhelmed by tourists. It is located just two hours by train from Prague.
The Baroque Heart of Olomouc
The elegant, redundant, rich artistic style that between the 17th and 18th centuries redesigned the face of the Czech Republic expressed itself at its best in Olomouc. It can be recognized in every corner of the city, characterized by a unique architectural style that left its mark not only on the main urban monuments (listed in the UNESCO List) but also on religious buildings and castles.
The symbol monument of Olomouc and its Baroque is certainly the majestic Holy Trinity Column, in the main square. With its 35 meters of height, it is the tallest sculpture in the entire Czech Republic and the concentration of statues that adorn it is the highest in Central Europe. The squares of Olomouc are then dotted with beautiful Baroque fountains, six in total. The Church of St. Michael the Archangel, with the characteristic three domes that soften the city skyline, designed by bell towers, spires (including those of the Gothic Cathedral of St. Wenceslas) and towers, is also a Baroque masterpiece. Another important Baroque monument watches over the city from Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill): it is the Baroque Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with splendidly decorated interiors. The sanctuary is the destination of thousands of pilgrims every year. And in this regard, we recommend a visit to the nearby Hradisko Monastery, an imposing Baroque complex spread out on a hill on the northern outskirts of the city. Very ancient, it was rebuilt in Baroque style after the Swedish devastation in the Thirty Years’ War.
Olomouc, not just Baroque
Beyond the strong Baroque imprint, Olomouc is still a concentration of historical, architectural, and artistic monuments that testify to its long and turbulent history. Do not miss the beautiful churches, starting with the elegant St. Wenceslaus Cathedral (neo-Gothic but with Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements). Also notable are St. Maurice (late Gothic) and the Chapel of St. John Sarkander (neo-Baroque). Among the secular buildings, not to be missed are: the Town Hall, which displays a splendid astronomical clock on the tower, the ancient university, the Archbishop’s Palace, and of course the Olomouc Castle, with the magnificent complex known as the Palace of the Premyslids.
Svatý Kopeček, the Holy Hill and Greenery
At the already mentioned Svatý Kopeček, the holy hill of Olomouc, not only pilgrims heading to the aforementioned sanctuary go, but also lovers of nature, animals, and breathtaking views. Here, in fact, is the Olomouc zoo, populated by an incredible variety of animals, including rare ones (from deer to bison, passing through giraffes, macaques, wolves, kangaroos, etc.), but known above all for its marine aquarium and particularly for the shark tank. The zoo, recently renovated, is open all year and promises great new features for 2017. On the hill stands a panoramic tower, 32 meters high, from which the view extends over the entire city of Olomouc and its green surroundings. The city and Svatý Kopeček are connected by a bus service, so it is possible to comfortably reach both the zoo and the basilica.
Olomouc historic festival and Baroque Festivals
From June 2 to 4, don’t miss the city’s historic festival, this year inspired by the 300th anniversary of the birth of Maria Theresa, the most important sovereign of the Bohemian land. You can visit the fairs and medieval markets or attend concerts by soloists of the Theatre of Moravia and the Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra, theatrical performances, and the evocative historic parade in costume. Immediately afterward, from July 6 to 30, comes the Baroque Festivals, baroque opera performances in costume hosted in a faithful replica of a baroque theater, with hand-painted sets.
Olomouc ricottas (tvarůžky)
At festivals and fairs, don’t miss tasting the Olomouc ricottas (tvarůžky) characterized by intense flavor and smell. They are called “Olomouc” because they were originally sold in local markets and, although not produced directly in Olomouc, are strongly linked to the city’s culinary identity. In fact, you will find them in specialty shops. The advice is to pair them with local beer, for a truly unique palate experience.
Olomouc Card, les avantages
Si vous décidez de venir à Olomouc, il vaut la peine d’acheter une Olomouc Card. La carte garantit un accès gratuit aux 78 lieux les plus intéressants non seulement d’Olomouc, mais de toute la Moravie Centrale et des monts Jeseníky. L’utilisation des transports en commun du réseau urbain est également incluse. En achetant la carte, vous recevez également un guide pratique et des informations sur les lieux intéressants de la convention. Deux types de Olomouc Card sont disponibles : pour 48 heures à 240 couronnes et pour 5 jours à 480 couronnes. La carte peut être achetée au centre d’informations d’Olomouc.
