The Gothic Grandeur of St Moritz

The Church of St Moritz Olomouc is a massive late Gothic structure. It sits right in the heart of the historic city center. Construction began in the late 14th century and took decades to finish. You can see the heavy stone walls and tall, narrow windows from blocks away.

This building has survived many difficult periods in Czech history. It stood through the Hussite wars and several major city fires. The exterior looks rugged and powerful compared to the delicate Baroque style seen elsewhere. It serves as a strong reminder of the city's medieval wealth and power.

The church is dedicated to Saint Maurice, a commander of the Theban Legion. You will notice two large, asymmetrical towers on the front facade. One tower is shorter and serves as a bell tower. The taller tower is the one you can actually climb for a view.

Walking around the exterior reveals many interesting stone carvings. These details show the skill of the 15th-century masons. It is a great place to start your tour of the city. You can find more information on the Olomouc Tourism Portal about local history.

Inside the Church of St Moritz Olomouc

The interior of the Church of St Moritz Olomouc is surprisingly bright and airy. High vaulted ceilings create a sense of immense space. The main draw here is the famous Michael Engler organ. It is one of the largest historic organs in Central Europe.

This organ features over 10,000 pipes and beautiful Baroque carvings. It was built in the 1740s and still sounds magnificent today. If you are lucky, you might catch a rehearsal or a concert. The acoustics of the stone hall make the music feel very powerful.

Near the entrance, look for the sculpture of the Mount of Olives. This late Gothic piece dates back to the mid-15th century. It is considered a masterpiece of European sculpture from that era. The detail in the faces and hands of the figures is remarkable.

The side altars and stained glass windows also deserve your attention. While some parts were updated in later years, the Gothic soul remains. It feels much more peaceful than the busy Olomouc Astronomical Clock area nearby. Take a moment to sit and enjoy the quiet atmosphere.

Climbing the Unique Double Spiral Tower

Climbing the tower is the highlight for many visitors to the Church of St Moritz Olomouc. It features a rare "double spiral" stone staircase. Two sets of stairs wind around each other in the same shaft. This design allowed people to go up and down without meeting each other.

The climb involves over 200 steps and can be quite narrow in places. It is not recommended for those with severe claustrophobia or mobility issues. However, the stone work on the stairs is a fascinating architectural feat. You can see the precision of the medieval builders as you ascend.

Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a 360-degree view. You can see the Olomouc Town Hall Tower clearly from this height. On a clear day, the Jeseníky Mountains are visible in the distance. It is the best spot for panoramic photography in the city.

The viewing platform is safe but can feel a bit windy. You will also get a close-up look at the massive church bells. Be careful if you are up there when the clock strikes the hour. The sound is incredibly loud but also very impressive.

Pros and Cons of Visiting

Every travel site has its ups and downs. The Church of St Moritz Olomouc is no different. Here is a quick look at what to expect during your visit. This should help you decide if it fits your schedule.

• Pros: Free entry to the main church area for prayer and viewing.
• Pros: The best panoramic views of the Olomouc city center.
• Pros: Home to one of the most famous historic organs in Europe.
• Cons: The tower stairs are very steep and narrow.
• Cons: Limited opening hours for the tower during the winter months.
• Cons: The exterior can look a bit plain compared to Baroque churches.

Most visitors find the pros far outweigh the cons. The central location makes it easy to add to any walking tour. It is located very close to the Holy Trinity Column Olomouc. You can easily see both in a single morning.

Practical Visitor Information for 2026

In 2026, the church remains an active place of worship. Entry to the nave is generally free, but donations are welcome. To climb the tower, you will need to pay a small fee. This fee usually costs around 50 to 80 CZK for adults.

The tower is typically open from April through October. During the winter, access depends on the weather and staff availability. Check the Visit Czechia site for the latest seasonal updates. Morning visits are best to avoid the small groups of afternoon tourists.

The church is located just a few minutes from the main square. You can walk there from the Baroque Fountains in Olomouc quite easily. There are several cafes nearby where you can rest after your tower climb. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the stone stairs.

If you enjoy religious art, consider visiting the Archdiocesan Museum and Castle afterward. It provides more context for the religious history of the region. Most people spend about 45 to 60 minutes at St Moritz. This includes time for both the interior and the tower climb.

Verdict: Is the Church of St Moritz Worth It?

Verdict: The Church of St Moritz Olomouc is a 5-star attraction for view-seekers. It offers a unique mix of Gothic architecture and musical history. The tower climb is a memorable experience that you won't find elsewhere. It is definitely worth the small effort to climb the stairs.

Best for: Photographers, history buffs, and fans of classical organ music.

Skip if: You have knee problems or a strong fear of heights. The stairs are the main challenge here.

Alternative: If you want grand Baroque interiors, visit the St Wenceslas Cathedral. It is located in the castle district and offers a different atmosphere. Both churches are key parts of the city's skyline.