Roteiro Urbano logo
Roteiro Urbano

Visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum

Plan your trip to Olomouc! Discover the best things to see when visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum, from Romanesque windows to golden carriages.

5 min readBy Editor
Share this article:
Visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum
On this page

Guide to Visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum

Visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum is a must for any traveler in Moravia. This historic site sits in the heart of Olomouc, Czech Republic. It blends ancient castle ruins with a world-class art collection. You will find thousand-year-old walls standing next to golden Baroque treasures. This guide helps you navigate the best Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc highlights for your next trip.

Quick Picks for Your Visit

If you are short on time, focus on these top selections. These picks ensure you see the most important parts of the museum complex. The site is large, so prioritizing helps you avoid fatigue.

  • Best Overall: The Romanesque Windows of Zdík’s Palace.
  • Best for Art Lovers: The Troyer Carriage and the Treasury.
  • Best Free Sight: The exterior of Saint Wenceslaus Cathedral.
  • Best Nearby: The Holy Trinity Column in the Upper Square.

Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc highlights

The museum complex is located on Wenceslas Square. It occupies the former Chapter Deanery and parts of the castle. Here are the top 10 things to see when visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum.

  1. Name: Zdík’s Palace Romanesque Windows Type: Sight Why go: These are among the finest 12th-century windows in Central Europe. They show the power of early Olomouc bishops. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Northern part of the museum. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Tip: Look closely at the intricate stone carvings on the columns.
  2. Name: The Troyer Carriage Type: Experience Why go: This massive, gilded Baroque carriage belonged to Bishop Ferdinand Julius Troyer. It is a stunning display of 18th-century wealth. Best for: Fans of royal luxury. Where: Carriage hall near the entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Tip: The carriage is so large it barely fits through the museum doors!
  3. Name: Saint Barbara’s Chapel Type: Sight Why go: This chapel features beautiful frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere. It is located inside the medieval round tower. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Inside the castle tower. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Tip: Check the acoustics; the round walls make sound travel uniquely.
  4. Name: The Gothic Cloister Type: Sight Why go: The cloister connects different parts of the museum. It features original wall paintings from the 14th and 15th centuries. Best for: Art historians. Where: Ground floor. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Tip: Visit on a sunny day to see light patterns on the stone floor.
  5. Name: The Picture Gallery Type: Experience Why go: This gallery holds a vast collection of paintings from the Gothic to the Baroque periods. It is managed by the Olomouc Museum of Art. Best for: Art fans. Where: Upper floors of the Deanery. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Tip: Look for the "Madonna of Šternberk," a famous local masterpiece.
  6. Name: The Treasury (Monstrances) Type: Sight Why go: See gold and silver liturgical objects encrusted with jewels. The craftsmanship is world-class. Best for: Jewelry and metalwork fans. Where: Secure room on the second floor. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Tip: The "Golden Sun of Moravia" is the most famous piece here.
  7. Name: Saint Wenceslaus Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: While technically next to the museum, it is part of the castle site. Its neo-Gothic towers dominate the skyline. Best for: Everyone. Where: Wenceslas Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of Olomouc bishops.
  8. Name: The Archaeological Cellar Type: Sight Why go: Walk through the foundations of the original castle. You can see how the site evolved over 1,000 years. Best for: Archaeology buffs. Where: Basement level. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven.
  9. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Day trip (Nearby) Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a short walk from the museum. Best for: Photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit at night when the column is beautifully illuminated.
  10. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: Experience (Nearby) Why go: This clock is unique for its socialist-realist design. It is located on the Town Hall wall. Best for: Curious travelers. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Watch the figures move every day at noon.

Planning Your Visit to the Museum

When visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum, check the official schedule. The museum is usually closed on Mondays. Most visitors spend about two to three hours exploring the entire complex. You can find more details on Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc ticket prices and discounts online. Family tickets and student rates are often available. Guided tours are recommended if you want to see the Romanesque palace rooms.

Exploring Historical Places in Olomouc

Olomouc is one of the most important historical places in Olomouc and the Czech Republic. After the museum, walk toward the Lower Square to see the fountains. The city has a high density of Baroque monuments. You can easily walk between the castle and the main squares. The Olomouc Tourism Portal offers maps for self-guided walking tours. Expect a relaxed atmosphere compared to the crowds in Prague.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Premyslid Castle part of the Archdiocesan Museum?

Yes, the remains of the Premyslid Castle are integrated into the museum complex. When you buy a ticket for the Archdiocesan Museum, you gain access to the Romanesque palace and the castle's historical structures. It is a seamless experience for visitors.

How much time do I need for the Archdiocesan Museum?

You should plan for at least 2 to 3 hours. This allows enough time to see the Romanesque windows, the carriage hall, and the cathedral next door. If you are an art lover, you might stay longer to enjoy the extensive picture gallery.

Can I visit the museum with children?

Yes, the museum is family-friendly. Children often enjoy the large golden carriage and the ancient castle cellars. The museum is located in a pedestrian zone, making it safe for walking with little ones. Check for family ticket discounts at the entrance.

Visiting the Premyslid Castle within Archdiocesan Museum offers a deep dive into Czech history. From the ancient Romanesque walls to the glittering Baroque treasures, there is something for everyone. Make sure to visit the nearby Holy Trinity Column to complete your Olomouc experience. Enjoy your journey through this historic Moravian gem!

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.