Top 10 Experiences Near the Brno Clock

The area around Liberty Square is the beating heart of the city. While the marble drop is the highlight, there is much more to explore. Here are the best things to do while you wait for the clock to strike eleven.

• Best overall: The 11:00 AM marble drop
• Best for families: The Skácel Fountain
• Best rainy-day: Brno Ossuary
• Best free: Liberty Square people-watching

1. Name: The Brno Astronomical Clock Type: Sight Why go: This is the only place for catching the glass marble from the clock. Its phallic shape is a major talking point. Best for: Souvenir hunters and photography fans. Where: East side of Liberty Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take any tram to the Náměstí Svobody stop. Tip: Find the four catch-holes at the base of the clock.
2. Name: Liberty Square (Náměstí Svobody) Type: Neighborhood Why go: It is the largest and oldest square in Brno. The atmosphere is vibrant with many cafes and shops. Best for: Soaking up the local vibe. Where: City center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central walking district. Tip: Read about what to see in Liberty Square Brno before visiting.
3. Name: The Plague Column Type: Sight Why go: This Baroque monument dates back to 1689. It commemorates the city's survival of the plague. Best for: History buffs. Where: North side of Liberty Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walkable from the clock. Tip: Look for the statues of local patron saints.
4. Name: The Skácel Fountain Type: Experience Why go: This modern fountain features verses by poet Jan Skácel. It is a relaxing spot to sit near the water. Best for: Families with children. Where: Liberty Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Steps away from the Astronomical Clock. Tip: The fountain is most beautiful when lit up at night.
5. Name: House of the Lords of Lipá Type: Sight Why go: A stunning Renaissance building with a rich facade. It houses a shopping gallery and a rooftop bar. Best for: Architecture lovers and shoppers. Where: Liberty Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Located directly on the square. Tip: Take the elevator to the top for a great view of the clock.
6. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: Experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. It lies right beneath the Church of St. James. Best for: Those seeking unique and slightly macabre history. Where: Jakubské náměstí (2 minutes from Liberty Square). Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Walk north from the main square. Tip: Book tickets in advance during peak summer weekends.
7. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Viewpoint Why go: This iconic cathedral sits on Petrov hill. Its bells ring for noon at 11:00 AM, matching the clock. Best for: Panoramic views of the city. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the nave; fee for the towers. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from Liberty Square. Tip: Climb the towers for the best photos of Špilberk Castle.
8. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: This massive fortress once served as a feared prison. It now houses the Brno City Museum. Best for: Learning about the 1645 siege. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Fee for exhibitions. Getting there: Walk uphill from the city center. Tip: Check out visiting Špilberk Castle in Brno for tour times.
9. Name: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market) Type: Market Why go: A traditional market where locals buy fresh produce. It has operated for centuries. Best for: Foodies and local culture. Where: 5 minutes south of Liberty Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to browse. Getting there: Walk south through the narrow streets. Tip: Try the local seasonal fruits in the summer.
10. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Day trip Why go: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of modern architecture. It is world-famous for its design. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Take tram number 9 from the center. Tip: You must book Villa Tugendhat tickets months in advance.

How to succeed at catching the glass marble

Catching the marble is harder than it looks. There are only four openings at the base of the clock. Only one marble is released each day. This means only one person can win the prize.

You should arrive at Liberty Square by 10:15 AM. By 10:30 AM, people usually occupy all four slots. You must reach your hand deep into the opening. Keep your palm open to catch the rolling glass ball.

Locals are very experienced at this game. Some regulars go every day to collect the marbles. Be polite but firm about your spot. If you want to know more about the mechanics, see how to read the Brno astronomical clock for details.

The marbles often feature special designs. During festivals or holidays, the colors might change. On Christmas, you might find a marble with a festive pattern. These are highly collectible items for residents.

History of the Liberty Square Clock

The clock was installed in 2010. It commemorates the Siege of Brno in 1645. During this time, the Swedish army surrounded the city. The Swedish General Torstenson made a bold claim.

He promised to leave if the city did not fall by noon. The local defenders saw they were losing. They decided to ring the cathedral bells one hour early. The Swedes heard the bells at 11:00 AM and left.

This is why the marble drops at 11:00 AM today. It is a symbol of Brno's resilience and wit. You can learn more about this period at the Go To Brno tourism portal. It is a defining moment in Moravian history.

Essential Tips for Liberty Square Visitors

Liberty Square is very easy to reach. Most tram lines pass through or near it. It is a car-free zone, making it safe for walking. Wear comfortable shoes as the square is paved with cobblestones.

If you fail to catch a marble, do not worry. You can often buy similar glass marbles in local souvenir shops. The Tourist Information Centre nearby sells them for a few euros. They make great gifts for friends back home.

The square also hosts many seasonal events. In December, it transforms into a beautiful Christmas market. During the summer, you might find beer festivals or live music. Check the official City of Brno website for event schedules.