Moravia is the eastern part of the Czech Republic, known for its rolling hills, historic towns, and warm hospitality. It was once part of Great Moravia, one of the first Slavic states, which capital was Olomouc, a very important city, where Czech kings were crowned and where Napoleon stayed before the Battle of Austerlitz, one of his biggest victories. So, I am going to visit this important city for a weekend.
Nowadays Olomouc has a population of around 100000 people, making it the 6th largest city in the Czech Republic. Despite being a regional hub, it has a small-town feel compared to larger cities like Prague or Brno. The city is home to a large student population, thanks to the Palacky University in Olomouc, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country, which gives the city a vibrant, youthful energy.
My hotel is located in the very city centre. With this wooden ceiling and short bed I felt as a knight from the medieval times.
So, after the fast check-in I immediately went to see the historical part of the city.
Interestingly, Olomouc has two main squares. Horni namesti (Upper Square) is the city’s lively heart, which is the second-largest historic square in the country, right after Prague. And Dolni namesti (Lower Square), which lies just a short walk south of the Upper Square.
The number one attraction on the main square is The Holy Trinity Column, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This Baroque masterpiece is the tallest of its kind in the country. It was built to commemorate the end of a plague in the 18th century and is adorned with sculptures of saints, angels, and religious figures.
On the main square you also can find a unique 600-year-old astronomical clock, once redesigned to match communist ideals, replacing the saints with the factory workers.
Of course, I could not miss tasting the local delicatessen, which is Olomoucke tvaruzky, quite specific smelly cheese. Honestly, it has a very salty and unusual taste to me, so the only way I could eat it was with the beer.
At the evening I visited Svaty Kopecek (Saint Hill), a hilltop near Olomouc, known for its stunning Church of Saint Wenceslas. The Baroque pilgrimage church was built in the 17th century and features beautiful frescoes, altars, and impressive statues.
It’s a popular destination for both religious visitors and nature lovers, with peaceful walking paths and gardens around the church.
And this location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Olomouc itself. Ideal place for drinking wine on the stairs and admiring the sunset!
Olomouc feels like a place stuck in time. Stunning Baroque architecture, cozy medieval streets, beautiful parks, relaxed atmosphere and great nature around. It’s a city that makes you want to slow down and enjoy its hidden spots. But tomorrow I am moving to another small city in Morava.
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