The Legacy of Science in Moravia

The Augustinian monks in Brno were very educated. They supported research in many fields. The Abbey of St. Thomas and Mendel became a center for intellectual life. This environment allowed Mendel to thrive.

Mendel was not just a monk. He was a meteorologist, a beekeeper, and a teacher. His experiments with pea plants laid the foundation for modern genetics. He tracked traits over many generations.

For a long time, the world ignored his work. It was rediscovered decades after his death. Now, Brno is known as the birthplace of genetics. You can feel this pride throughout the city today.

11 Sites to Explore History of Old Brno Abbey and Genetics

To understand the history of Old Brno Abbey and genetics, you must visit these specific locations. Here are our top picks for a complete experience.

• Best overall: Mendel Museum
• Best for families: VIDA! Science Centre
• Best rainy-day: Abbey Library
• Best free: Mendlovo Square

1. Name: Mendel Museum of Masaryk University Type: Museum Why go: This is the heart of Mendel's legacy. It features modern exhibits on DNA and genetics. Best for: Science enthusiasts and students. Where: Mendlovo Square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Tram 1, 5, or 6 to Mendlovo náměstí. Tip: Check out the Mendel Museum tickets online to skip the line.
2. Name: St. Thomas's Abbey Type: Sight Why go: Explore the actual living quarters of the Augustinian monks. The gothic architecture is stunning. Best for: History buffs. Where: Old Brno. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for guided tours. Getting there: Short walk from the tram stop. Tip: Look for the original sundials on the walls.
3. Name: Mendel's Greenhouse Type: Experience Why go: This is a modern reconstruction of the original site. It stands where Mendel performed his famous pea experiments. Best for: Photographers and gardeners. Where: Abbey Garden. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Inside the abbey grounds. Tip: Visit in spring when the surrounding flowers bloom.
4. Name: Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady Type: Sight Why go: This is one of the most beautiful brick gothic churches in Moravia. Mendel served as the abbot here. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Mendlovo Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Adjacent to the abbey. Tip: Respect the quiet atmosphere if a service is happening.
5. Name: The Abbey Library Type: Sight Why go: It houses thousands of ancient books. Mendel used these resources for his research. Best for: Bibliophiles. Where: Inside the Abbey. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Part of guided tour. Getting there: Access via the museum entrance. Tip: Ask about the rare botanical manuscripts.
6. Name: Mendel’s Statue and Memorial Type: Sight Why go: A large statue honoring the scientist. It is a great spot for a quick photo. Best for: Quick stops. Where: Mendlovo Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from the main tram hub. Tip: The square was recently renovated for a better visitor experience.
7. Name: Brno Central Cemetery (Mendel's Grave) Type: Experience Why go: Pay respects at the Augustinian tomb. Mendel is buried here among other notable figures. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Vídeňská Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 2 or 5. Tip: Consult the Brno Central Cemetery official site for a map of famous graves.
8. Name: Mendlovo Náměstí (Mendel Square) Type: Neighborhood Why go: This is the local hub of Old Brno. It features local markets and historic pubs. Best for: Local atmosphere. Where: Old Brno district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Major transport hub for many tram lines. Tip: Try the local beer at the nearby Starobrno Brewery.
9. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A massive fortress overlooking the city. It offers views of the Abbey and the whole Brno skyline. Best for: Viewpoints. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate for interiors; grounds are free. Getting there: 15-minute walk uphill from the center. Tip: Read a Špilberk Castle guide before you go to learn about its prison history.
10. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Day trip Why go: A UNESCO World Heritage site. It shows the modern side of Brno's history. Best for: Design fans. Where: Černá Pole. Time: 2 hours. Cost: High; book months in advance. Getting there: Tram 3 or 5. Tip: Check Villa Tugendhat tickets early as they sell out fast.
11. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: Sight Why go: The second-largest ossuary in Europe. It provides a unique look at the city's past. Best for: Unique experiences. Where: Near St. James Church. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 10-minute tram ride from Old Brno. Tip: It is underground and can be quite cool, even in summer.

Planning Your Visit to Old Brno

Visiting the abbey is easy with public transport. You can use the DPMB - Brno Public Transport website for schedules. Most sites are within walking distance once you arrive at Mendlovo Square.

The best time to visit is from May to September. This is when the abbey gardens are most beautiful. You can see the plants that inspired Mendel's work. Winters are cold but the museum remains open.

English tours are available at the Mendel Museum. It is wise to book these in advance. This ensures you get the full story of the history of Old Brno Abbey and genetics. Many signs in the area also have English translations.