History of the Famous Engler Organ in Saint Maurice Church

Michael Engler completed this massive organ in 1745. He was a master builder from Wroclaw. The instrument features over 2,300 pipes in its original state. Later expansions increased this number significantly. Today, it boasts five manuals and thousands of individual pipes. It remains the largest Baroque organ in Central Europe.

The organ's sound is famous for its power and clarity. It fills the high Gothic vaults of the church perfectly. Experts recently finished a major restoration of the instrument. This ensures the pipes sound as they did centuries ago. You can hear the organ during regular mass or special festivals. The International Organ Festival is a great time to visit.

Visually, the organ is a work of art. It is decorated with intricate sculptures and gold leaf. These Baroque details contrast beautifully with the simple Gothic stone walls. It is a true centerpiece of the city's cultural heritage. Many visitors consider it one of the most famous landmarks in Olomouc today.

10 Must-See Highlights at the Church of Saint Maurice

To help you plan, here are the top things to see. This list includes the organ and nearby treasures. Use these quick picks for your itinerary:

• Best overall: The Engler Organ
• Best for views: South Church Tower
• Best for families: Astronomical Clock
• Best free activity: Upper Square walk

1. Name: The Engler Organ Type: sight Why go: To see and hear the largest Baroque organ in Central Europe. Best for: Music lovers and history buffs. Where: Inside the main nave. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Tip: Visit during the morning mass to hear it played.
2. Name: Double Spiral Staircase Type: experience Why go: It is a rare architectural feature from the late Gothic period. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Located at the back of the church. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Look up to see the unique geometric patterns.
3. Name: South Church Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best 360-degree view of Olomouc. Best for: Photographers. Where: Entrance near the side portal. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for climbing. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the church tower stairs.
4. Name: Gothic Main Altar Type: sight Why go: It features beautiful 15th-century wood carvings. Best for: Art historians. Where: The front of the sanctuary. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Use a flashlight or zoom lens to see the detail.
5. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: day trip Why go: This UNESCO site is just a short walk away. Best for: Everyone. Where: Upper Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This is the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe. Learn more about the Holy Trinity Column before you go.
6. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: A unique socialist-realist version of a medieval clock. Best for: History fans. Where: Town Hall wall. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Watch the figures move every day at noon.
7. Name: The Baptistery Type: sight Why go: See the oldest parts of the church foundation. Best for: Religious history. Where: Side chapel. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for guided tour times.
8. Name: Archbishop's Palace Type: experience Why go: Visit the place where Emperor Franz Joseph I was crowned. Best for: Royalty fans. Where: 10-minute walk from the church. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Tours must be booked in advance.
9. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: museum Why go: It houses a vast collection of modern and ancient art. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Near the cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Admission is often free on certain Sundays.
10. Name: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: A massive Neo-Gothic cathedral with a deep crypt. Best for: Architecture. Where: 15-minute walk. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of bishops.

Planning Your Visit to the Famous Engler Organ

The church is usually open daily for visitors. However, avoid walking around during active religious services. The best time for photos is early afternoon. The light hits the stained glass windows beautifully then. Check the official parish website for the latest concert schedules.

Getting to the church is very easy. It is located in the pedestrian zone of the city center. Most people walk from the main square. If you stay further away, use the local tram. Trams stop just a few minutes from the entrance. Olomouc is a very walkable city for most travelers.

For a deeper experience, look for the International Organ Festival. It usually takes place in September. You can hear the famous Engler Organ in Saint Maurice Church at its best. Tickets are affordable and the atmosphere is magical. You can find more details on the UNESCO website regarding the city's heritage.