The History of Caesar Fountain Olomouc Main Square

The history of Caesar Fountain Olomouc main square begins in the early 18th century. It was completed in 1725 by the master stonemason Václav Render. This fountain is the most complex of the baroque fountains in Olomouc. It depicts Gaius Julius Caesar, the legendary founder of the city. He sits proudly on a galloping horse facing the Michalský Hill. The statue symbolizes the city's connection to the Roman Empire.

The fountain was not just a piece of art. It served a vital role in the city's water supply. During the Baroque era, such fountains were essential for residents. Render worked with sculptor Jan Jiří Schauberger to create this masterpiece. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal. They used local stone to ensure the monument would last for centuries.

The design features various mythical figures. Below Caesar, you can see two reclining statues. These represent the Morava and Danube rivers. There is also a small dog, which is a favorite detail for many tourists. The fountain remains a symbol of Olomouc's historical wealth and cultural depth. It stands as a testament to the skill of Moravian artists.

10 Iconic Baroque Fountains and Sights in Olomouc

Olomouc is famous for its collection of water monuments. Most are located within walking distance of each other. You can follow a simple walking tour of Olomouc baroque fountains route to see them all. Here are the top ten sights to visit in the historic center.

• Name: Caesar Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the largest and most artistic fountain in Olomouc. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center tram stop. Tip: Visit at night when the lights highlight the Baroque details.
• Name: Hercules Fountain Type: sight Why go: It features a dynamic statue of the mythical hero fighting a hydra. Best for: Fans of Greek mythology. Where: Upper Square, near the Town Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right in the main square. Tip: This is a great spot for photos with the Town Hall in the background.
• Name: Arion Fountain Type: experience Why go: This is a modern addition that complements the historic style. Best for: Families with children. Where: Upper Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Caesar Fountain. Tip: Let the kids look for the bronze turtle statues nearby.
• Name: Neptune Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the oldest of the city's Baroque fountains, built in 1683. Best for: Seeing the evolution of local art. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes south from the Upper Square. Tip: Look for the sea horses at the base of the statue.
• Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: sight Why go: It depicts the king of the Roman gods with a thunderbolt. Best for: Religious and mythological art fans. Where: Lower Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the opposite end of the Lower Square from Neptune. Tip: The eagle at Jupiter's feet is a classic symbol of power.
• Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Baroque group of statues in Central Europe. Best for: Everyone visiting Olomouc. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is the most prominent landmark in the main square. Tip: Check if the small inner chapel is open for a quick look.
• Name: Mercury Fountain Type: sight Why go: Often considered the most artistically valuable of the group. Best for: Art students and historians. Where: 8. května Street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk two blocks from the Upper Square toward the tram lines. Tip: It is quieter here than in the main squares.
• Name: Triton Fountain Type: sight Why go: It features beautiful shell and dolphin motifs. Best for: Fans of intricate stone carving. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the Town Hall. Tip: It is located right next to the Museum of Art.
• Name: Olomouc Town Hall Type: experience Why go: You can see the unique socialist-realist astronomical clock here. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Upper Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for the tower tour. Getting there: It is the central building of the main square. Tip: Be there at noon to see the clock figures move.
• Name: Svatý Kopeček Type: day trip Why go: A stunning Baroque basilica with panoramic views of the city. Best for: Nature and spirituality. Where: 8 km from the center. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Price of a bus ticket. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Visit the local zoo nearby if you have extra time.

Planning Your Visit to Olomouc's Historic Center

Visiting Olomouc is easy and rewarding. Most sights are concentrated in the pedestrian zones. You should start your tour at the Holy Trinity Column Olomouc. From there, every major fountain is within a ten-minute walk. The city is very flat, making it accessible for everyone. Wear comfortable shoes as the squares are paved with cobblestones.

The best time to visit is from May to September. During these months, the fountains are active and flowing. The city also hosts many outdoor festivals in the squares. If you prefer fewer crowds, try visiting in the late spring. The weather is usually mild and perfect for walking. Many local cafes offer outdoor seating near the water features.

Public transport in Olomouc is very efficient. Trams connect the train station directly to the historic center. You can buy tickets at yellow machines or via mobile apps. Most locals speak some English, especially in shops and restaurants. Always keep a map of the center handy to find the smaller fountains. It is a safe and welcoming city for all travelers.