The Legend of the Brno Cart Wheel Explained

The story began in 1636 in the town of Lednice. A wheelwright named Jiří Birk made a bold bet with his friends. He claimed he could fell a tree and make a wheel in one day. Then, he promised to roll it to Brno before sunset.

This was a distance of about 50 kilometers. His friends thought the task was impossible and accepted the bet. Birk finished the wheel and started his long journey. He reached the city gates just as the sun went down.

Today, you can see this famous wheel in the Old Town Hall passage. It serves as a lasting symbol of Moravian determination. You can learn more about the Brno dragon and wheel legends during your stay. This tale remains central to the identity of the city.

10 Iconic Places to Experience Brno’s Local Legends

Brno offers a mix of gothic architecture and quirky folklore. Most of these sites are located within the walkable city center. Here are the top ten places to see the legends for yourself.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Old Town Hall
• Best for families: The Brno Dragon
• Best viewpoint: Petrov Cathedral
• Best unique experience: 10-Z Bunker

1. Name: The Brno Wheel Type: sight Why go: This is the original wooden artifact from the 1636 legend. Best for: History buffs and families. Where: Old Town Hall passage. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main train station. Tip: Look up as you enter the arched courtyard.
2. Name: The Brno Dragon Type: sight Why go: It is a preserved crocodile that locals once thought was a dragon. Best for: Quirky photo opportunities. Where: Old Town Hall passage. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the famous wheel. Tip: Read about the crocodile in Brno Old Town Hall on nearby plaques.
3. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: The bells ring at 11 AM to commemorate a clever wartime trick. Best for: Panoramic views of the city. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free for the nave. Getting there: Short uphill walk from the Cabbage Market. Tip: Climb the towers for the best city views.
4. Name: St. James’ Church Type: sight Why go: See the "Nehanba" statue mocking the cathedral builders. Best for: Fans of architectural rivalries. Where: Rašínova street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to see the exterior. Getting there: Walk north from Freedom Square. Tip: Look high on the window arch to find the small statue.
5. Name: Cabbage Market (Zelný trh) Type: market Why go: Explore the historic labyrinth of tunnels beneath the square. Best for: Foodies and explorers. Where: Brno city center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Market is free. Getting there: Central location, easy walk from the station. Tip: Buy fresh Moravian fruit during the morning market hours.
6. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: sight Why go: Known as the "Prison of Nations" with many dark myths. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate for museum entry. Getting there: Walk up through the surrounding castle park. Tip: Visit the casemates to see the old prison cells.
7. Name: Parnassus Fountain Type: sight Why go: A Baroque masterpiece representing the world's great rivers. Best for: Art and architecture lovers. Where: Center of Zelný trh. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the middle of the market square. Tip: Notice the cave-like structure at the fountain base.
8. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in all of Europe. Best for: Those interested in unique, somber history. Where: Under St. James’ Church. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is on the side of the church. Tip: Book tickets in advance during the peak summer months.
9. Name: Lednice Château Type: day trip Why go: This is the village where the wheel maker Jiří Birk lived. Best for: A full day of fairytale architecture. Where: 50km south of Brno. Time: Full day. Cost: Varies by tour. Getting there: Take a train to Břeclav, then a bus. Tip: Walk through the massive English-style gardens for free.
10. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: experience Why go: A Cold War shelter built into the Špilberk hillside. Best for: Modern history fans. Where: Husova street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the city center toward the castle. Tip: Visit the 10-Z Bunker and try the retro milk bar.

Planning Your Legendary Tour of Brno

Planning a trip to see these legends is very simple. Most sights are in the historic center of the city. You can walk between most attractions in a few minutes. Start your morning by finding local secrets in Brno to avoid the crowds.

The city is very safe for international tourists. Wear comfortable shoes for the historic cobblestone streets. Note that many museums are closed on Mondays. You can check the Visit Czechia site for regional travel updates.

Brno is also famous for its vibrant coffee culture. Take breaks in the many cafes near the Cabbage Market. This will help you soak in the local atmosphere. Enjoy the unique mix of modern life and ancient myths.