The Iconic Brno Astronomical Clock and Statues

The most discussed piece of art is located in Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). It is officially known as the Brno astronomical clock and statues collection. This six-meter-tall black granite structure looks like a bullet. Locals often give it more provocative nicknames due to its shape. It commemorates the city's resistance against the Swedish siege in 1645.

Every day at 11:00 AM, the clock releases a glass marble. This timing represents the legend of the "noon" bell being rung an hour early. Crowds gather daily to catch the falling marble as a souvenir. It is one of the most interactive experiences in the city. You can learn more about its complex mechanics through how to read the Brno astronomical clock guides online.

• Quick Picks:
• Best Overall: The Astronomical Clock
• Best for Families: The Brno Dragon
• Best Free: Courage (The Horse)
• Best Unique Experience: Catching the 11 AM marble

Must-See Famous Weird Statues Throughout Brno City Centre

Brno does not shy away from unconventional designs. Many of these statues are within a five-minute walk of each other. They make for a perfect self-guided walking tour. Here are the top items to add to your list.

1. Name: Courage (Odvaha) Type: Statue Why go: It features a knight on a horse with incredibly long legs. Best for: A funny photo from a specific angle underneath the horse. Where: Moravian Square (Moravské náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Read about the horse statue in Moravian Square to understand the visual joke.
2. Name: Justice (Spravedlnost) Type: Statue Why go: It depicts a man struggling to lift a heavy block of water. Best for: Fans of symbolic and heavy-hitting modern art. Where: In front of the Supreme Administrative Court. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the edge of Moravian Square. Tip: Locals often slide under the block for photos.
3. Name: The Little Man with the Bare Bottom (Neunartel) Type: Architectural sculpture Why go: It is a tiny figure on the church wall showing his rear to the cathedral. Best for: Those who love hidden historical insults. Where: St. James Church (Kostel sv. Jakuba). Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look up at the windows on the south side. Tip: Bring binoculars or use your camera zoom.
4. Name: The Brno Dragon Type: Taxidermy/Legend Why go: It is actually a stuffed crocodile hanging from the ceiling. Best for: Families and fans of local folklore. Where: Old Town Hall (Stará radnice). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view the passage. Getting there: Walk through the archway of the Old Town Hall. Tip: Look for the "crooked turret" on the building's exterior while you are there.
5. Name: The Brno Wheel Type: Historical relic Why go: It represents a legend about a man who made a wheel in one day. Best for: History buffs. Where: Old Town Hall. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Right next to the Dragon. Tip: This is one of the best attractions in Brno for local legends.

Unique Modern Art and Hidden Gems

Beyond the most famous pieces, Brno holds several other artistic surprises. These works often blend history with modern aesthetics. They are scattered throughout the pedestrian zones. You can easily find them while exploring the city's cafes and shops.

6. Name: Mozart Statue Type: Statue Why go: It shows Mozart as a naked child with one wing. Best for: Music lovers. Where: In front of the Reduta Theatre at Zelný trh. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the Vegetable Market square. Tip: Mozart actually performed in this theatre as a child.
7. Name: Edison Lightbulbs Type: Modern sculpture Why go: Huge intertwined lightbulbs made of steel mesh. Best for: Night photography when they are often lit up. Where: Malinovského náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Mahen Theatre. Tip: This honors Thomas Edison, who designed the theatre's electrical lighting.
8. Name: The Bench of Václav Havel Type: Functional art Why go: Two chairs and a table built around a tree. Best for: A quiet moment of reflection. Where: Near the Capuchin Crypt. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from Zelný trh. Tip: It is designed to encourage dialogue between people.
9. Name: Memorial to the Victims of Communism Type: Memorial Why go: A haunting, modern piece located in a park setting. Best for: Understanding local history. Where: At the foot of Špilberk hill. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk toward the park after visiting Spilberk Castle. Tip: The park offers great views of the city.

Planning Your Brno Statue Walking Tour

Most of these statues are located in the pedestrian zone. This makes Brno very easy to explore on foot. You can see all the main statues in about two hours. Start at Náměstí Svobody and work your way toward the Old Town Hall. For more information, check the official Go To Brno tourism portal.

If you prefer public transport, the city has an excellent tram system. You can check schedules on the DPMB website. Most trams stop near the main railway station, which is very close to the center. Brno is generally safe and very walkable for all ages. It is a great destination for a weekend trip in Visit Czechia itineraries.