Why Visit the Holy Trinity Column Olomouc?

The Holy Trinity Column Olomouc is more than just a statue. It is a symbol of gratitude and faith. Local citizens built it between 1716 and 1754 after a plague ended. It reached such artistic heights that it earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The monument stands 35 meters high. It features dozens of stone figures and a small gilded chapel at its base.

The column represents the peak of Central European Baroque style. Every detail was crafted by local artists and master builders. It serves as a point of immense local pride. Unlike many monuments, it was funded by the people of Olomouc. This makes it a unique testament to the city's historical wealth and spirit. You can easily spend an hour admiring the intricate carvings and gold accents.

11 Best Things to Do Near the Holy Trinity Column

Olomouc is a compact city, making it perfect for walking tours. Most major sights are clustered around the main squares. Here are the top picks for your itinerary:

• Best overall: Holy Trinity Column
• Best for families: Flora Olomouc Parks
• Best rainy-day: Archdiocesan Museum
• Best free activity: Baroque Fountains tour

1. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: It is a UNESCO masterpiece and the city's main landmark. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Walk to the center of the Upper Square. Tip: Look for the golden cannonball that marks where the column was hit during a siege.
2. Name: Olomouc Town Hall & Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: See a unique socialist-realist astronomical clock from the mid-20th century. Best for: Quirky history. Where: Upper Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is located on the north side of the Town Hall. Tip: Watch the clock strike noon to see the mechanical figures move.
3. Name: Church of St. Moritz Type: sight/viewpoint Why go: This Gothic church of St. Moritz offers the best panoramic views of the city. Best for: Viewpoints. Where: Near the Upper Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the tower. Getting there: A two-minute walk from the Town Hall. Tip: The double spiral staircase in the tower is an architectural marvel.
4. Name: Baroque Fountains Type: sight Why go: Olomouc is famous for its collection of Baroque fountains featuring mythological themes. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Scattered across the Upper and Lower Squares. Time: 1 hour for a full circuit. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the walking path between the squares. Tip: The Caesar Fountain is the largest and most impressive of the group.
5. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: The St. Wenceslas Cathedral has the second-highest church tower in the country. Best for: Architecture. Where: Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry to the nave. Getting there: Take a 10-minute walk or a short tram ride from the center. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of local bishops and princes.
6. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Type: museum Why go: The Archdiocesan Museum showcases incredible religious art and historical artifacts. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Next to the Cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Typical museum admission fee. Getting there: Walk toward the castle district. Tip: Don't miss the Troyer carriage, a massive and ornate gold coach.
7. Name: Arion Fountain Type: art/experience Why go: This modern fountain by Ivan Theimer complements the older Baroque style. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the Town Hall. Tip: Look for the bronze turtle sculptures that children love to climb.
8. Name: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí) Type: neighborhood Why go: A quieter, charming square with cafes and the Marian Plague Column. Best for: Relaxing. Where: Just south of the Upper Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the narrow streets connecting the two squares. Tip: This is a great place to try local Moravian wine at a terrace.
9. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: museum Why go: Explore modern and contemporary art in a beautiful historic building. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walk five minutes from the main square. Tip: Check their temporary exhibitions for local Czech artists.
10. Name: Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill) Type: day trip Why go: Visit the Svatý Kopeček basilica for spiritual history and great views. Best for: Nature and views. Where: 8km from the city center. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Free entry to the church; bus fare required. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: The local zoo is also located on this hill, making it a great family outing.
11. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: day trip Why go: A fairytale fortress that looks like it belongs in a movie. Best for: Romance and history. Where: 30km from Olomouc. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Admission fee for guided tours. Getting there: Best reached by car or organized tour. Tip: Book your tour in advance during the summer months.

Planning Your Visit to Olomouc in 2026

Visiting Olomouc is easy and affordable. Most travelers arrive by train from Prague. The journey takes about two to three hours. For the latest travel updates, check the Olomouc Tourism Portal. The city is very walkable, so bring comfortable shoes. You can also use the efficient tram system to reach further sights.

The best time to visit is from May to September. During this time, the parks are in full bloom. You can find more details on the Visit Czechia page. Winter is also charming, especially during the Christmas markets. Prices in Olomouc are generally lower than in Prague. Expect to pay about 40 to 60 CZK for a local beer.

Top Tips for the Holy Trinity Column Olomouc

To truly appreciate the column, visit at different times of day. In the morning, the light hits the golden figures beautifully. At night, the monument is illuminated, creating a dramatic atmosphere. You should also try to visit the small chapel inside. It is often open during the summer months. This gives you a closer look at the stonework.

Photography enthusiasts should bring a wide-angle lens. The column is very tall and the square is wide. Be respectful of the monument and do not climb on the base. Many locals still consider it a sacred site. If you want to learn more, consider a guided walking tour. Local guides can share stories about the plague and the artists involved.