Exploring the History of Olomouc

The Archdiocesan Museum is part of the Olomouc Museum of Art. It was founded in 1998 to showcase the spiritual culture of Moravia. The museum is located in the Deanery of the Chapter. This building has a very long history. It stands on the site where the Premyslid Castle once stood. This was the seat of the Moravian rulers many centuries ago.

The museum collection is very impressive. It includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Many of these items belonged to the local archbishops. They were great patrons of the arts. You can see how the church influenced the city's growth. The museum buildings themselves are works of art. They mix medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque styles perfectly.

Visiting this site gives you a deep look into the past. It is not just about the objects on display. The atmosphere of the old castle walls is very special. You can feel the weight of history as you walk through the halls. It is a quiet escape from the modern world. Every room tells a different part of the Olomouc story.

10 Best Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc Highlights

Here are the top things to see when you visit the museum. This list covers the most famous artifacts and rooms. Make sure to give yourself enough time to see them all.

• Best overall: Zdík's Palace
• Best for families: The Carriage Hall
• Best for art: The Picture Gallery
• Best for views: The Museum Loggia

1. Name: The Troyer Carriage Type: Sight Why go: This is a massive and ornate ceremonial carriage from the 18th century. It belonged to Bishop Ferdinand Julius Troyer. The detail on the carvings is truly amazing. It shows the wealth and power of the church at that time. Best for: History buffs Where: Ground floor Carriage Hall Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in museum entry Getting there: Walk to the ground floor from the main entrance. Tip: Look closely at the wheels to see the intricate gold leaf work.
2. Name: Zdík's Palace Type: Sight Why go: This is a rare Romanesque palace built in the 12th century. It is one of the most important medieval buildings in Central Europe. You can walk through the original rooms and see the stone walls. It is a highlight of visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum grounds. Best for: Architecture lovers Where: Upper floor of the museum complex Time: 30 minutes Cost: Included in museum entry Getting there: Follow the signs for the Premyslid Castle route. Tip: Check the lighting in the palace for great atmosphere photos.
3. Name: The Romanesque Windows Type: Sight Why go: These windows are famous for their beautiful stone carvings. They are located in the Zdík's Palace section. They represent the peak of medieval craftsmanship in the region. The patterns are very delicate and well-preserved. Best for: Photographers Where: The Northern wall of Zdík's Palace Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in museum entry Getting there: Walk through the palace cloister area. Tip: Visit in the morning when the light hits the stone carvings.
4. Name: Saint Barbara Chapel Type: Experience Why go: This chapel is a hidden gem inside the museum. It features beautiful Baroque decorations and a peaceful vibe. It was used by the local deans for private prayer. The ceiling paintings are very colorful and bright. Best for: Spiritual seekers Where: Near the main gallery rooms Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in museum entry Getting there: Follow the path from the Romanesque palace. Tip: Sit in the pews for a moment to enjoy the silence.
5. Name: The Picture Gallery Type: Sight Why go: This gallery holds a vast collection of European art. You can see works from the Gothic period to the Baroque. It includes famous pieces by Dutch and Italian masters. The layout makes it easy to see the changes in art styles. Best for: Art enthusiasts Where: Second floor galleries Time: 45 minutes Cost: Included in museum entry Getting there: Take the stairs or elevator from the lobby. Tip: Look for the Madonna of Sternberg, a very famous local statue.
6. Name: The Golden Carriage Type: Sight Why go: This is another stunning carriage used for royal visits. It is smaller than the Troyer carriage but even more gold. It represents the height of Baroque luxury. It is a favorite for children and families. Best for: Families Where: The Carriage Hall Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in museum entry Getting there: Located next to the Troyer carriage. Tip: Ask the staff about the history of the horses that pulled it.
7. Name: The Treasury Type: Sight Why go: The treasury holds the most valuable sacred objects. You will see gold monstrances, chalices, and jeweled crosses. These items were used in the cathedral for centuries. The craftsmanship is world-class. Best for: Jewelry fans Where: Secure room on the first floor Time: 20 minutes Cost: Included in museum entry Getting there: Follow the signs for the "Sacred Art" section. Tip: Notice the different types of gemstones used in the crosses.
8. Name: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: While technically next door, it is part of the museum experience. It is the main church of the city. The interior is vast and has a beautiful neo-Gothic look. You can explore the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc interior after the museum. Best for: Everyone Where: Adjacent to the museum entrance Time: 30 minutes Cost: Usually free (donations welcome) Getting there: It is right outside the museum doors. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of the bishops.
9. Name: The Museum Loggia Type: Sight Why go: This covered walkway offers great views of the courtyard. It is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. It is a perfect spot to take a break during your visit. You can see the cathedral towers from here. Best for: View seekers Where: Overlooking the inner courtyard Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in museum entry Getting there: Accessible from the upper floor galleries. Tip: This is the best spot for a selfie with the cathedral in the background.
10. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Day trip Why go: This is a short walk from the museum. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of the city. It is the largest Baroque sculpture group in Central Europe. You can read more in this Holy Trinity Column Olomouc guide. Best for: UNESCO fans Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the museum through the old town. Tip: Look for the small chapel inside the base of the column.

Visiting the Museum in 2026

Planning your trip for 2026 is a great idea. The museum is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday. It is often closed on Mondays. You should check the official website for holiday hours. The museum is very popular in the summer months. Spring and autumn are quieter times to visit.

Tickets are very affordable for most travelers. There are discounts for students, seniors, and families. You can find more info on Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc ticket prices and discounts online. It is best to buy your tickets at the entrance. They usually accept both cash and cards. The staff is very helpful and many speak English.

The museum is mostly accessible for people with mobility issues. There are elevators to reach the upper floors. However, some parts of the old castle may have uneven floors. Wear comfortable shoes for your visit. There is a small cloakroom where you can leave your bags. This makes walking through the galleries much easier.

Top Sights Near the Museum

The area around the museum is full of culture. It is part of the UNESCO heritage zone of Olomouc. You can spend hours just walking the nearby streets. The Wenceslas Square is a very peaceful spot. It is surrounded by old houses and historic walls.

If you have more time, consider a short trip nearby. You can visit the Hradisko Monastery Olomouc for more history. It is a short bus ride from the city center. The monastery is known as the "Moravian Escorial" because of its size. It is a very impressive building with a long history.

There are also many cafes near the museum. You can enjoy a coffee after your tour. Many places offer local Moravian treats. It is a great way to end your day of sightseeing. The city is very walkable and safe for tourists. You will find that everything is close together.