The Legend of the Brno Dragon and Wagon Wheel

The story of the Brno dragon is famous across the Czech Republic. Legend says a terrifying monster once lived in the Svratka River. It ate local livestock and scared the citizens. A clever butcher eventually defeated it using a hide filled with lime. When the dragon drank water, the lime expanded and killed it.

The dragon is actually a preserved crocodile. It has hung in the Old Town Hall passage for centuries. You can see it there today. It serves as a reminder of the city's clever history. Many tourists take photos with it every day.

The wagon wheel has its own unique story. In 1635, a wheelwright named Jiří Birk made a bold bet. He claimed he could make a wheel and roll it to Brno in one day. He traveled over 50 kilometers from Lednice. He succeeded and the wheel remains a symbol of Moravian hard work. You can find more details on the official Go To Brno portal.

10 Best Sights Linked to Brno's Famous Legends

Brno offers many historical treasures. Most are within walking distance in the Old Town. Use this list to plan your 2026 adventure. Many sites offer guided tours in English.

1. Name: The Brno Dragon Type: Sight Why go: It is the most famous symbol of the city. Best for: Everyone Where: Old Town Hall entrance Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Look up as you enter the passage.
2. Name: The Brno Wagon Wheel Type: Sight Why go: To see the result of a legendary 1635 bet. Best for: History buffs Where: Old Town Hall passage Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located next to the dragon. Tip: Read the plaque nearby for the full story.
3. Name: The Bent Gothic Pinnacle Type: Sight Why go: A master mason bent it as revenge for low pay. Best for: Architecture lovers Where: Old Town Hall portal Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: It is right above the main entrance. Tip: It is the middle spire on the stone carving.
4. Name: Old Town Hall Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of Brno. Best for: Photographers Where: Radnická Street Time: 30-45 minutes Cost: Around 100 CZK Getting there: Enter through the tower entrance. Tip: Visit at sunset for amazing light.
5. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Experience Why go: A massive fortress with deep dungeons and history. Best for: Families Where: Špilberk Hill Time: 2-3 hours Cost: Varies by exhibit Getting there: Walk uphill from Husova Street. Tip: Check out the castle casemates for a spooky tour.
6. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: Famous for ringing its bells at 11:00 AM instead of noon. Best for: Culture seekers Where: Petrov Hill Time: 1 hour Cost: Free (tower has a fee) Getting there: A short walk from the vegetable market. Tip: The 11:00 AM bell commemorates a trick played on the Swedes.
7. Name: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market) Type: Market Why go: A vibrant square with a labyrinth underneath. Best for: Foodies Where: Brno Center Time: 1 hour Cost: Free to browse Getting there: Use the tram to Zelný trh stop. Tip: Buy local honey or seasonal fruit here.
8. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Experience Why go: A UNESCO World Heritage site of modern architecture. Best for: Design enthusiasts Where: Černá Pole Time: 2 hours Cost: 400+ CZK Getting there: Take tram 9 or 11. Tip: Book tickets months in advance.
9. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: Sight Why go: The second-largest ossuary in Europe. Best for: Dark history fans Where: Under St. James Church Time: 45 minutes Cost: 160 CZK Getting there: Walk from Rašínova Street. Tip: The atmosphere is very quiet and respectful.
10. Name: Parnas Fountain Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful Baroque fountain in the Cabbage Market. Best for: Relaxing Where: Center of Zelný trh Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located in the center of the market square. Tip: It is a great meeting point for tours.

Practical Tips for Your Legend-Hunting Tour

Brno is very walkable. Most legendary sites are close together. You can see the dragon and wheel any time. The passage is open even when the hall is closed. For more transport info, check the DPMB transport site.

Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones. The hills to the castle and cathedral are steep. Consider buying a BrnoPas for discounts. This card covers many top attractions and transport. It is a great value for 2026 travelers.

Visit the Tourist Information Center in the Old Town Hall. They provide free maps of the city. You can also find souvenirs related to the dragon. The staff speaks excellent English and is very helpful. Plan your visit for a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.