Brno is a large Czech city, which is second only to Prague. It is located at the confluence of two rivers - Svitavy and Svratka. Brno (Czech Republic) is famous for its rich history and many ancient buildings. Translated into Russian, its name can be translated as “armor” or “armor”. Brno is considered the center of Moravia (eastern region in the Czech Republic).
General information
This charming city is located among the Czech-Moravian mountains and the Drahany Upland. The first mention of the city dates back to the 9th century. The settlement began to be built around the Spielberg fortress, which was erected to protect against attacks from the south. Since 1243 it is considered a city. For a long time, the city of Brno was the capital of the Duchy of Moravia, as well as an important commercial and cultural center.
Spielberg Castle
This ancient building, perhaps, can be called the most important attraction of the city. It was erected on a high bank of the river, covering with itself a landscape extending further. The fortress was built in the 13th century by the Czech king Przemysl Otakar II. The castle was first mentioned in 1277, while it served as the residence of the famous Luxembourg family. Blanca Valois (wife of Karel IV) lived here for a short time.
However, the main purpose of the castle was strategic. He defended the locals during the Hussite wars, as well as during the discord between the Hungarians and the Czech king Jiri. Since the 15th century, interest in the castle has been declining. Some time later, Spielberg came under the authority of Brno (Czech Republic). True, after the rebellion of 1621, this defensive structure was confiscated and appointed an imperial fortress.
The castle became famous in 1645 when it withstood a 4-month siege at the very end of the Thirty Years War. The fortress was later restored. In the 17-19 centuries, Spielberg was a prison, where many political prisoners, as well as especially cruel and dangerous criminals, were kept. Those sentenced to life imprisonment were chained, feeding was very poor - they gave only 750 g of bread and a little water. In such inhuman conditions, the prisoners died very quickly. At present, there is a museum with an exposition of furniture, paintings and various antique pieces of furniture. In the summer, various cultural events are often held in Spielberg: concerts, festivals, tournaments. The fortress offers an excellent panoramic view of the city.
Historical quarter
We continue our journey through the city of Brno, Czech Republic. The sights of this settlement can also be explored in the historical quarter. Of particular interest is the Central Square, where it is always noisy and crowded. Here is a plague pillar, erected in 1689, with a statue of the Virgin Mary.
Further down Masarukova Street, if you turn into the small street Zametsnitska, you can see the Dominican church. In this area there is also an ancient monastery (1230) and the Church of St. Michael (1659-1672).
Town Hall
To fully enjoy the amazing city of Brno (Czech Republic), you should visit the old town hall. It was erected in the 13th century. On the arch of the building you can see the "dragon". As early as the beginning of the 16th century, one foreigner presented a scarecrow with a crocodile, which greatly affected the inhabitants of the city. In this regard, the legend was born about the terrible "Brno" dragon, who lived in these places and ate the local merchants. To kill the monster, people decided to build an unusual trap: quicklime was sewn into calfskin and left the bait on the shore. The dragon, having swallowed its prey, began to feel very thirsty and went to a watering place. As a result, the process of extinction began in his womb, from which the monster tore from the inside. As a sign of victory over the dragon, the locals took his skin and hung it on the wall of the town hall.
Zielni Square and other facilities
The city of Brno (Czech Republic) is a truly unique settlement with its own special flavor. Near the town hall is a beautiful fountain that illustrates the battle of Cerberus with Heracles, as well as the plague pillar of the Holy Trinity. Then you can admire the Cathedral of St. Paul and Peter. It began to cost back in the 11th century, for many centuries it was rebuilt more than once, and received a modern appearance only in the 19th century. Its main highlight is the statue of Our Lady (15th century).
Capuchin Monastery
Brno (Czech Republic) is also famous for the ancient Capuchin monastery. In the center of the city is located at first glance the unremarkable Capuchin Square. From here you can see part of the monastery - the Church of the Holy Cross, erected in the Baroque style. The church itself is hidden from the eyes of the inhabitants. The Capuchin monks led a rather modest, even ascetic, way of life. And they settled in Brno in the 17th century.
During the war, the monastery was destroyed by the Swedes, but soon a church was erected at this place: very modest on the outside and luxurious inside. The monastery was later revived. Thanks to the climate, all the people buried here turned into mummies. The most daring tourists can go down to the underground labyrinths of the monastery and look at the remains of nobles and monks who have been in the church since the 18th century.
Veverzhi Fortress
Spilberg Castle, medieval streets, churches - this is not all that Brno (Czech Republic) can surprise. Attractions are located literally throughout the city. In 2013, the castle of Veverzhi (it is also called the Castle) celebrated its 800th anniversary. However, according to legend, the fortress exists here much longer. The Czechs claim that this building is no less than 1,100 years old. The castle is located on a high and very narrow rock a few kilometers from the city. At this point, the river Svratka makes a sharp bend.
The fortress has changed its owners more than once, in connection with this it has another name - Moravian Karlštejn. It is also noteworthy that the Swedes could not capture Veverzhi. A serious reconstruction of the fortress began at the end of the 20th century, it took more than one million Czech crowns. Now Veverzhi is the most popular place among tourists. At the end of August, Greek Saturday is held here every year. On this day, you can taste many Greek dishes and even learn Greek dances.
Theaters
The city has one of the first Czech theaters - Reduta. The largest is considered the Brno National Theater. It is worth noting that there are a lot of similar cultural institutions in the city: the Puppet Theater "Joy", the children's theater "Vankovka", "Geese on a leash" and others.
Universities in Czech Republic, Brno
The history of the local education system dates back to 1899. At that time, the Technical University was opened here. Today, the city has many educational institutions.
In 1919, the University named after Masaryk. In the 20s he occupied a significant place in the scientific and cultural life of the Czech Republic. The university is now considered the second largest Czech state university. Many faculties are represented here: legal, medical, pedagogical, philosophical, social sciences, etc.
The oldest university in Brno is considered Technical University. It consists of 8 faculties. In addition to technical institutions, a number of art disciplines are also studied at the institution.
Pharmaceutical and Veterinary University. He opened his doors in 1918 and survived one suspension in 1939. Now students have the opportunity to study at 3 faculties that operate in this university.
University of Forestry and Agriculture Mendel. It was opened in 1919. It has in its arsenal several faculties (forestry, horticulture, regional development, economic).
In all these state universities, training is absolutely free. There are also a number of private educational institutions in Brno.
Moravian Karst Caves
Moravia is considered one of the largest karst regions in central Europe. In the area you can find various formations: dips, craters, caves. In general, there are about 1000 caves in Moravia. True, only four of them can be visited. The most popular is Punkva, the river of the same name flows through which you can take a boat tour. The canyons Dry and Empty trough, the Rudnitsky failure, as well as the White Water failure are also impressive. It is worth noting that the Moravian Karst is a protected area with unique flora and fauna.
City Hotels
There is no shortage of hotels here. Hotels in Brno (Czech Republic) are practically scattered throughout the city. Options in the historical center, of course, will be expensive, and on the outskirts you can settle for a very reasonable fee. Let's consider some of them.
- Hotel Europa. It is located in the central part of Brno. From here you can easily reach the main attractions of the city. The hotel has the opportunity to stay in comfortable rooms with a safe and designer bedding.
- Hotel Pegas Brno 4 *. This hotel rises right at the foot of Spielberg Castle. Other attractions are within walking distance. To find them all and not to miss anything, the Brno map will help you. All guests are provided with high quality service.
- Hotel Vaka. Located near the center of Brno. It offers guests rooms with a kitchenette, TV, microwave, telephone, Internet. Facilities for disabled guests are available.
- A budget option is the Garni Hotel Vinarska. It is located on the university campus. The rooms have a refrigerator, TV, internet, free parking is provided.
How to get to Brno?
To get to this town with amazing landscapes, ancient architecture and just a unique atmosphere is not at all difficult, since it has its own international airport. Brno (Czech Republic) is a medieval tale that can slightly open the veil of secrets of those times and tell a lot of interesting and informative. In addition, you can use the railway or other means of transport if you plan to leave for Brno from Prague. In one day, it will definitely not be possible to get around all the outstanding places of the city. So try to set aside at least 3-4 days for the trip, and you will definitely not regret that you came here and saw all this beauty with your own eyes.