The Story of the Brno Astronomical Clock

The Brno astronomical clock is the most famous landmark in Freedom Square. It is made of black granite from Africa. The shape is meant to look like a bullet. This design honors the city's victory over the Swedish army in 1645. During the siege, the Swedes said they would leave if they did not win by noon. The locals rang the bells at 11:00 AM to trick them. This is why the clock still celebrates "noon" one hour early every single day.

Many people find the clock difficult to read at first glance. It does not have hands like a normal clock. Instead, it uses rotating glass components. If you want to master it, you can learn how to read the Brno astronomical clock before you go. It is a very modern take on a classic timepiece. It was finished in 2010 and has been a talking point ever since.

The most exciting part happens every day at 11:00 AM. A glass marble is released from the top of the clock. It rolls down one of four channels to the bottom. Crowds often gather early to try and catch it. The marble is a free souvenir from the city. If you miss the marble, don't worry. The clock itself is a masterpiece of engineering and art that looks great in photos.

10 Best Brno Astronomical Clock and Statues

Brno is full of famous weird statues throughout Brno city centre that tell local stories. Here are the top ten items to add to your walking tour. Each one offers a unique photo opportunity and a bit of history.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall: Brno Astronomical Clock
• Quick Pick: Best for Families: The Brno Dragon
• Quick Pick: Best View: Statues at Veveří Castle
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity: Catching the marble at 11 AM

1. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: Sight Why go: It is the most iconic modern monument in the city. Best for: History buffs and souvenir hunters. Where: Náměstí Svobody (Freedom Square). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Any tram to Náměstí Svobody. Tip: Arrive at 10:30 AM if you want a chance to catch the marble.
2. Name: The Courage Statue (The Horse) Type: Statue Why go: This tall statue of a knight on a horse has a funny optical illusion. Best for: Quirky photography. Where: Moravské náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes north from the main square. Tip: Stand between the horse's front legs and look up for a surprise. You can read more about the meaning of the horse statue in Moravian Square to understand its history.
3. Name: The Statue of Justice Type: Statue Why go: It shows a man lifting a heavy block, representing the weight of justice. Best for: Art lovers. Where: In front of the Supreme Administrative Court. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on Moravské náměstí near the Horse statue. Tip: It is often used as a fountain in the summer months.
4. Name: The Brno Dragon Type: Legend/Sight Why go: It is actually a preserved crocodile hanging from the ceiling. Best for: Families and kids. Where: Old Town Hall entrance. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk towards the Old Town Hall from the vegetable market. Tip: Look for the bent wooden turret on the building's facade while you are there.
5. Name: The Indecent Little Man Type: Statue Why go: A tiny, cheeky figure hidden on the side of a church. Best for: Those who like hidden details. Where: St. James Church (Kostel sv. Jakuba). Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Look high up on the arch of the window facing the square. While there, you can also visit the Brno Ossuary nearby.
6. Name: The Mozart Statue Type: Statue Why go: Commemorates Mozart's performance in Brno as a child. Best for: Music fans. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right in the center of the market square. Tip: The statue shows Mozart as a naked child with a single wing.
7. Name: The Edison Bulbs Type: Statue/Experience Why go: Huge intertwined lightbulbs honoring Thomas Edison. Best for: Evening walks. Where: Malinovského náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Mahen Theatre. Tip: They look best when they glow at night.
8. Name: Statue of Gregor Mendel Type: Statue Why go: Honors the father of genetics who lived in Brno. Best for: Science enthusiasts. Where: Mendel Square (Mendlovo náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 1 or 5 to Mendlovo náměstí. Tip: Visit the Mendel Museum right next to the statue.
9. Name: Memorial to the Victims of Communism Type: Memorial Why go: A moving and somber tribute to Czech history. Best for: History students. Where: Rooseveltova street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Janáček Theatre. Tip: It is a quiet spot for reflection away from the main crowds.
10. Name: Statues at Veveří Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: Beautiful historic statues in a castle setting. Best for: Nature and history lovers. Where: Near the Brno Reservoir. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Small fee for castle grounds. Getting there: Take a boat from the reservoir or bus 303. Tip: Combine this with a boat trip on the water for a full day out.

Planning Your Brno Public Art Walk

Seeing the Brno astronomical clock and statues is easy on foot. Most of these items are located within the historic center. You can start your walk at the main train station. From there, it is a short walk to the Vegetable Market. This area is one of the best attractions in Brno for food and art. You will see the Mozart statue and the Brno Dragon very quickly.

For transport, the city has an excellent tram system. You can check the DPMB - Brno Public Transport site for schedules. Most trams pass through the center every few minutes. If you are visiting in 2026, look for digital ticket machines on the trams. You can just tap your card to pay for a ride. This makes getting to further spots like Mendel Square very simple.

Don't forget to look up when walking through the streets. Brno hides many of its best statues on the corners of buildings. The city is very safe for tourists. You can explore the art at any time of day. However, the statues in Moravian Square are especially beautiful during the golden hour. This is the best time for photography without too many people in the way.