Why visit the baroque fountains in Olomouc?

Olomouc has one of the best-preserved Baroque centers in Central Europe. The fountains are a key part of this heritage. Most cities removed their old water systems as they grew. Olomouc kept its fountains because they were so beautiful. They are masterpieces of stone carving and design. You will see figures like Neptune, Hercules, and Jupiter standing tall in the squares.

The fountains were built to provide water to the citizens. They also served as protection against fires. Each one was designed by a skilled artist of the time. They used Roman mythology to make the city look like a "New Rome." This makes the city feel very grand and classical. You can easily see them all on a walking tour of the fountains through the city.

Visiting these sites is completely free for everyone. You can enjoy the sound of splashing water while you explore. The squares are often filled with cafes and markets. It is a great way to experience the local Moravian culture. In 2026, the city plans several festivals around these historic sites. It is the perfect time to plan your visit to this UNESCO-listed destination.

12 essential baroque fountains in Olomouc and sights

Below is a list of the most important fountains and Baroque sights. Use this list to plan your route through the city center. Most of these are located within a five-minute walk of each other. They are the pride of the local community.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Caesar Fountain
• Best for families: Arion Fountain
• Best for photos: Neptune Fountain
• Best free sight: Holy Trinity Column

1. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: sight Why go: This is the largest and most famous fountain in the city. It shows Julius Caesar on a horse. Legend says he founded Olomouc. The statue is very detailed and powerful. It is the centerpiece of the Upper Square. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main tram stop at náměstí Republiky. Tip: Look for the two dogs at the base representing local rivers.
2. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: sight Why go: This fountain shows the hero Hercules fighting the Hydra. It represents the strength of the city. The statue is very expressive and full of movement. It was created by the artist Mandík in the late 1600s. Best for: Fans of classical mythology. Where: Upper Square, near the Town Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the main square. Tip: Visit at night when the statues are beautifully lit.
3. Name: Arion Fountain Type: experience Why go: This is a modern fountain but it fits the Baroque theme. It tells the story of the poet Arion saved by a dolphin. It has many bronze turtles that kids love to climb on. It was designed by Ivan Theimer in 2002. Best for: Families with children. Where: Upper Square, southwest corner. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Caesar Fountain. Tip: The fountain is safe for kids to touch and play around.
4. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: sight Why go: This is the oldest of the six Baroque fountains. It depicts the god of the sea with his trident. The horses rising from the water look very realistic. It was the first step in creating the city's grand water system. Best for: Seeing the oldest art in the city. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the Upper Square. Tip: This square is usually quieter than the Upper Square.
5. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: sight Why go: Jupiter is the king of the Roman gods. He holds a lightning bolt and stands over an eagle. This fountain was the last of the original six to be finished. It completed the Baroque ensemble of the city squares. Best for: Completing the Lower Square tour. Where: Lower Square, eastern side. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the Neptune Fountain. Tip: There are many great ice cream shops nearby.
6. Name: Mercury Fountain Type: sight Why go: Mercury is the protector of merchants and travelers. This fountain is considered the most artistically valuable. The movement of the figure is very elegant. It is tucked away slightly from the main squares. Best for: Art students and detail lovers. Where: 8. května Street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk towards the Church of St. Moritz. Tip: It is located in a busy shopping area, so watch for trams.
7. Name: Triton Fountain Type: sight Why go: This fountain features the son of Neptune. It has complex carvings of dolphins and sea shells. It was moved to this square in the 1800s. It is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings. Best for: Seeing unique sea-themed carvings. Where: Republic Square (náměstí Republiky). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take any tram to the náměstí Republiky stop. Tip: Visit the nearby museum right after seeing this fountain.
8. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: While not a fountain, it is the city's greatest Baroque treasure. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the largest group of Baroque statues in one monument in Central Europe. You can learn more about its Holy Trinity Column history online. Best for: Everyone visiting Olomouc. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: You cannot miss it in the main square. Tip: There is a small chapel inside the base that is sometimes open.
9. Name: Marian Column Type: sight Why go: This column was built to thank God for the end of a plague. It is a beautiful example of religious Baroque art. It stands in the center of the Lower Square. It creates a perfect triangle with the Neptune and Jupiter fountains. Best for: Spiritual and historical interest. Where: Lower Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the center of the Lower Square. Tip: Look at the statues of saints around the base for intricate details.
10. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: This cathedral is a mix of styles but has a grand Baroque interior. Its towers dominate the city skyline. It is located in the old castle area. It is a very peaceful and impressive place to visit. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Wenceslas Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from Republic Square. Tip: Visit the crypt to see where famous bishops are buried.
11. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Type: experience Why go: This museum is located in the former Olomouc Castle. It holds amazing Baroque paintings and sculptures. You can see the famous golden carriage of the bishops. It is one of the top museums in the city. Best for: Rainy days and art fans. Where: Near the Cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Use the audio guide to hear the stories behind the art.
12. Name: Svaty Kopecek (Holy Hill) Type: day trip Why go: This is a massive Baroque pilgrimage site on a hill. It offers the best views of Olomouc and the countryside. The church is filled with gold and beautiful paintings. It is a short trip from the city. Best for: A half-day trip and great views. Where: 5km northeast of the city. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free to enter the church. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Check the Svaty Kopecek guide for bus times.

Planning your walking tour of the fountains

The best way to see the fountains is on foot. Start at the Upper Square to see the Caesar and Hercules fountains. Then, walk to the Lower Square for Neptune and Jupiter. This route takes about thirty minutes if you walk slowly. You will pass many historic houses along the way. Most streets in the center are for pedestrians only.

The fountains usually run from April until late October. In winter, the city covers them to protect the stone from frost. If you visit in summer, the water is very refreshing. Early morning is the best time for photos. There are fewer people and the light is soft. You can find more tips on the official tourism board website.

Olomouc is very flat and easy to walk. Wear comfortable shoes as some streets have cobblestones. Most fountains have benches nearby where you can rest. You can also find public toilets near the Town Hall. If you get tired, the city has an excellent tram system. Trams run frequently between the squares and the train station.

Nearby Baroque highlights to explore

After seeing the fountains, explore the rest of the Baroque center. The city has many churches with grand interiors. The Church of St. Michael is famous for its three domes. Inside, you will find rich decorations and a peaceful atmosphere. It is just a short walk up the hill from the Lower Square.

The Town Hall also has Baroque elements inside its Gothic walls. You can take a guided tour to see the historic rooms. The astronomical clock on the outside is a must-see. It was rebuilt in a Socialist Realist style but remains a major landmark. It is located right next to the Caesar Fountain.

For a deeper look at history, visit the local art galleries. They often host exhibitions about the Baroque era. The city's university also has many historic buildings. You can feel the academic spirit as you walk through the streets. Olomouc truly comes alive when you explore its hidden corners.