Planning Your Church of Saint Maurice Tower Climb

You will find this impressive church located just a short walk from the main city square. It is very easy to reach by foot from most central hotels or tram stops. Most tourists start their journey from the Holy Trinity Column located nearby. The church towers are visible from almost anywhere in the historic district.

Admission to the tower is very affordable for all types of international travelers. You can usually purchase your tickets directly at the entrance of the south tower. Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for the most current seasonal opening hours. Most people spend about thirty to forty-five minutes completing the entire experience.

Prepare yourself for a steep and somewhat narrow ascent to the top platform. It is wise to wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip for the stone. The climb is not recommended for those who have significant mobility issues or heart conditions. Always bring a small bottle of water if you visit during the hot summer.

Locate the small entrance door on the south side of the church building. The ticket office is often located near a small gift shop inside the vestibule. Staff members are generally very helpful and can provide basic information in several languages. They may also offer maps of the local area for your convenience.

The Unique Double Spiral Staircase Experience

This specific tower features a very rare and impressive architectural design. It utilizes a double spiral staircase that was built in the late 15th century. One path is used for going up while the other is for coming down. This clever system helps manage the flow of visitors in the narrow space.

The ancient stone walls feel cool and solid as you make your way up. You will notice several small windows carved into the thick masonry along the path. These openings offer interesting glimpses of the church interior and the high vaulted ceilings. The craftsmanship from the late Gothic period is truly a marvel to behold.

Take your time as you navigate the 206 steps to reach the summit. There are several small landing areas where you can pause to catch your breath. You will feel the weight of centuries in every worn stone step you climb. It is a physical connection to the medieval history of the Moravian region.

Panoramic Views of the Olomouc Skyline

Reaching the summit rewards every visitor with truly incredible and sweeping scenery. You can see the entire historic center of Olomouc from this high vantage point. The red rooftops of the old town look like a beautiful and complex mosaic. It is widely considered one of the best panoramic views in Olomouc today.

Look toward the north to see the spires of the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral. You can also easily spot the Olomouc Castle and cathedral views from this height. This perspective helps you understand the layout of the city and its fortifications. It is a perfect spot for geography lovers and urban explorers.

On clear days you can even see the distant peaks of the Jeseníky Mountains. The green landscape of Moravia provides a stunning contrast with the urban stone architecture. Many people find this to be the most peaceful spot in the entire city. It feels as though you are touching the sky above the busy streets.

You can also compare this view with the Olomouc Town Hall tower views nearby. Both towers offer unique and different angles of the historic Upper and Lower squares. Most travelers prefer the Saint Maurice view because it is slightly higher and more open. It provides a full 360-degree look at the surrounding Moravian countryside.

Photography Tips for Your Visit

Bring a wide-angle lens to get the best results from the narrow tower platform. The space can be a bit tight for using large professional tripods during peak hours. Use a sturdy neck strap to keep your camera gear safe while you climb. Check our Olomouc photography locations guide for more helpful ideas.

Golden hour provides the most magical and soft lighting for your city photos. The sun sets beautifully behind the rolling hills in the distant west. This creates long and dramatic shadows over the ancient city squares and monuments. It is a dream come true for professional and amateur photographers alike.

Try to capture the intricate detail of the massive historic church bells. They are located near the top and represent centuries of local craftsmanship. You can get very close to them as you exit onto the platform. Be careful of the loud ringing if you are there at noon.

Look for the best sunset spots in Olomouc while you are at the summit. The tower provides a clear view of the entire horizon in every direction. You can track the path of the sun very easily from here. This helps you plan your evening photography sessions with great precision.

History of the Church of Saint Maurice

The history of this sacred site dates back to the 11th century. It has survived numerous fires and many different regional wars over the years. The current Gothic appearance was largely completed around the year 1540. It remains a powerful symbol of local resilience and cultural pride.

This site is an important part of the UNESCO World Heritage buffer zone. It holds immense cultural and religious value for the entire Moravian region. You can feel the weight of history as you walk through the doors. Every stone in the tower tells a different story of the past.

The interior of the church houses one of the largest organs in Europe. It features over 10,000 pipes and produces an incredible and powerful sound. Many people visit the church just to hear the beautiful music during services. The tower climb simply adds another layer to this rich experience.

Local legends suggest that the tower once served as a vital lookout. Guards would watch the horizon for signs of fire or invading enemy armies. Today the tower serves a much more peaceful and scenic purpose for us. It connects modern visitors to the fascinating medieval past of the city.

Best Time to Visit in 2026

Spring is a truly wonderful time for your Church of Saint Maurice tower climb. The city parks are blooming with fresh flowers and vibrant green leaves. Temperatures are usually mild and perfect for a physical climb like this. You will also avoid the large crowds that arrive in summer.

The summer season offers the longest daily opening hours for the church tower. You can enjoy the views late into the warm evening during these months. However the interior of the tower can become quite warm and humid. It is best to visit early in the morning to stay cool.

Autumn brings a palette of vibrant colors to the surrounding Moravian landscape. The crisp air often makes the distant mountains look very clear and sharp. It is a very romantic places with views Olomouc experience during the fall. Winter visits offer a snowy and magical atmosphere for everyone.