The History of Plague Columns in Olomouc Squares

The history of plague columns in Olomouc squares began in the early 18th century. A deadly plague struck the city between 1713 and 1715. Thousands of citizens lost their lives during this dark time. Survivors wanted to show their gratitude to the heavens. They commissioned local artists to build grand religious monuments.

Wenzel Render was the mastermind behind many of these projects. He was a wealthy stonemason and architect in Olomouc. He wanted to create the most magnificent monuments in the Habsburg Empire. These structures are built in the high Baroque style. This style uses dramatic shapes and emotional sculptures.

The columns served as centers for outdoor religious services. People gathered at these sites to pray for protection. According to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, these columns represent the peak of Central European Baroque art. They are not just religious symbols. They are also symbols of civic pride and resilience.

10 Must-See Landmarks and Columns in Olomouc

Olomouc is easy to explore on foot. Most sites are located in the two main squares. Use this list to plan your walk through history. Here are the top picks for your 2026 visit.

• Best overall: Holy Trinity Column
• Best for history: Marian Plague Column
• Best for families: Arion Fountain
• Best free activity: Exploring the Upper Square

1. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from any city center hotel. Tip: Look for the small golden cannonball that marks the Prussian siege.
2. Name: Marian Plague Column Type: sight Why go: This was the first major plague column built in the city after the 1715 epidemic. Best for: History buffs. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short 5-minute walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Compare its smaller size to the massive Holy Trinity Column.
3. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the most famous fountain in Olomouc and depicts the legendary founder of the city. Best for: Photos. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the Town Hall. Tip: Visit at night when the water is beautifully lit.
4. Name: Olomouc Town Hall Type: sight Why go: This building has served the city for over 600 years and features a unique clock. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Upper Square center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Varies for tower tours. Getting there: Visible from anywhere in the Upper Square. Tip: You can climb the tower for the best view of the plague columns.
5. Name: Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: It is one of the few socialist-realist clocks in the world. Best for: Photography. Where: North side of the Town Hall. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the Town Hall's outer wall. Tip: Be there at 12:00 PM sharp to see the figures move.
6. Name: Arion Fountain Type: experience Why go: A modern addition that fits perfectly with the older Baroque fountains. Best for: Families with kids. Where: Lower Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the Marian Column. Tip: Kids are allowed to play in the water during summer.
7. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: sight Why go: Features a dramatic sculpture of Hercules fighting the Hydra. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the Astronomical Clock. Tip: Look for the city's coat of arms on the fountain.
8. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the oldest of the city's six Baroque fountains. Best for: History fans. Where: Lower Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the southern end of the Lower Square. Tip: Notice the detailed sea horses at the base.
9. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: sight Why go: The last of the original Baroque fountains to be completed. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Lower Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the center of the Lower Square. Tip: It stands very close to the Marian Column.
10. Name: Saint Moritz Church Type: sight Why go: A massive Gothic church with a famous organ and a great lookout tower. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Just off the Upper Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the tower. Getting there: Walk two minutes from the Hercules Fountain. Tip: The double spiral staircase is an architectural marvel.

Planning Your Visit to Olomouc's Historic Squares

Visiting Olomouc is very easy for most travelers. The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly. You can see all the major columns and fountains in one morning. Wear comfortable shoes as the squares have cobblestone streets. This can be tricky for some walkers.

The best time to visit is during late spring or early autumn. The weather is mild and the fountains are usually active. In winter, the columns are sometimes covered to protect them from frost. However, the Christmas markets in the squares are magical. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal.

Olomouc is only two hours from Prague by train. Fast trains run every hour from the main station. Once you arrive, take a tram to the center. Trams 1, 2, or 7 will take you to the squares. Most people find that Olomouc is much quieter than Prague.