The Best Quirky Statues and Sculptures in Brno
Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic. It is famous for its stunning functionalist architecture and vibrant student life. However, many visitors are surprised by the quirky statues and sculptures in Brno that dot the city center. These artworks often spark debate and laughter among locals and tourists alike. From a giant black clock to a horse with incredibly long legs, the city is an open-air gallery. This guide explores the most unusual sights you should see on your next visit. Prepare to see Brno from a very different and humorous perspective.
11 Quirky Statues and Sculptures in Brno to Visit
Brno does not take itself too seriously. You will find art that is bold, funny, and sometimes confusing. Most of these sites are within easy walking distance of each other in the historic center. Here are the top quirky statues and sculptures in Brno you cannot miss.
- Best overall: The Brno Astronomical Clock
- Best for photos: Courage (Jobst of Moravia)
- Best hidden gem: The Indecent Little Man
- Best for history: The Brno Dragon
- Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: This black stone monument is shaped like a bullet. Locals often joke about its phallic appearance. Every day at 11:00 AM, it releases a glass marble. Best for: Curious travelers Where: Náměstí Svobody (Freedom Square) Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from the main train station. Tip: Arrive at 10:45 AM if you want to catch the marble.
- Name: Courage (Jobst of Moravia) Type: sight Why go: This massive bronze statue features a knight on a horse with spindly legs. It stands 8 meters tall. It is one of the most famous quirky statues and sculptures in Brno. Best for: Photographers Where: Moravské náměstí Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Take any tram to Moravské náměstí. Tip: Stand directly between the horse's front legs and look up for a funny surprise.
- Name: The Brno Dragon Type: experience Why go: It is actually a preserved crocodile hanging from the ceiling. Legend says it was a dragon that terrorized the city. It is a central part of Brno dragon and wheel legends that locals love. Best for: Families Where: Old Town Hall passage Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Tip: Look for the bent turret on the same building's portal.
- Name: The Brno Wheel Type: sight Why go: A wooden wheel made by a wheelwright in a single day as part of a bet. It hangs next to the dragon. It represents the grit and speed of the local people. Best for: History buffs Where: Old Town Hall Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walkable from Náměstí Svobody. Tip: Visit the Old Town Hall tower nearby for great city views.
- Name: The Indecent Little Man (Nehanba) Type: experience Why go: A tiny stone figure on St. James Church showing his bare bottom. He is aimed toward the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. It was a cheeky insult during a construction rivalry. Best for: People who like hidden details Where: St. James Church (Jakubské náměstí) Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located near Brno Ossuary at St. James Church. Tip: Look high up on the window arches of the church tower.
- Name: Statue of Justice Type: sight Why go: A man lifting a heavy block of stone outside the Administrative Court. It represents the heavy burden of justice. It is a modern piece that invites interaction. Best for: Art lovers Where: Moravské náměstí Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: A short walk from the Courage statue. Tip: You can splash in the water fountain located right next to it in summer.
- Name: Statue of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Type: sight Why go: A naked, winged Mozart standing on a pedestal. He has one adult wing and one child wing. It commemorates his performance in Brno at age eleven. Best for: Music fans Where: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market) Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk to the Reduta Theatre. Tip: Explore the local secrets in Brno found in the market below.
- Name: The Three Lightbulbs Type: sight Why go: Giant intertwined lightbulbs made of bronze. They honor Thomas Edison, who designed the electrical wiring for the nearby Mahen Theatre. Best for: History enthusiasts Where: Malinovského náměstí Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Take tram 1, 2, or 4 to Malinovského náměstí. Tip: See the Mahen Theatre at night when it is fully lit.
- Name: House of the Four Giants Type: sight Why go: Four muscular stone figures holding up the balcony of a building. They look like they are struggling with the weight. Their faces show intense expressions. Best for: Architecture fans Where: Náměstí Svobody Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located on the main square. Tip: Look for the Alfa Pasaz and functionalist arcades nearby.
- Name: The Bench of Václav Havel Type: experience Why go: Two chairs and a table built around a lime tree. It is a memorial to the former Czech president. It invites people to sit and talk. Best for: Quiet reflection Where: Kapucínské náměstí Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located near the Capuchin Monastery. Tip: It is a great place to rest after walking the steep hills.
- Name: Memorial to the Victims of Communism Type: sight Why go: A modern, abstract sculpture that looks like a cage or a human figure. It is located in a quiet park area. It offers a somber contrast to the city's humor. Best for: History students Where: Rooseveltova street Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from Janáček Theatre. Tip: This is close to the Jurkovic Villa if you are exploring the wider area.
Why Brno is Famous for Unusual Public Art
Brno has a unique relationship with its public spaces. The city often holds competitions for new monuments. These contests encourage modern and provocative designs. This approach differs from the traditional statues found in Prague. Locals enjoy the debate that each new piece creates.
The quirky statues and sculptures in Brno reflect the city's spirit. Brno is a place of innovation and science. However, it also values a good joke. This mix of high intellect and dry humor is typical of the Moravian region. It makes the city feel approachable and alive.
Art here is meant to be touched and used. Children climb on the statues while students meet by the "bullet" clock. These pieces are not just for looking at from a distance. They are part of the daily life of the residents. You can find more about the city's vibe at the Go To Brno portal.
Planning Your Quirky Art Walk in Brno
Most quirky statues and sculptures in Brno are in the pedestrian zone. You can see almost all of them in a two-hour walk. Start at the main train station and head toward Náměstí Svobody. This is the heart of the city and home to the Astronomical Clock.
Wear comfortable shoes as the city has many cobblestone streets. Brno is very walkable, but the public transport system is excellent. You can use the DPMB - Brno Public Transport for longer distances. Trams run frequently and cover all major squares.
If you have extra time, visit the Brno Central Cemetery. It contains many artistic tombstones and historical monuments. It is a peaceful place to see more traditional sculpture. This site is easily reached by tram from the center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to see the glass marble at the clock?
The glass marble is released every day at 11:00 AM sharp. You should arrive at the Brno Astronomical Clock at least 15 minutes early. There are four openings where the marble can drop. Crowds often gather, so pick a spot early to increase your chances of catching it.
Are the quirky statues in Brno free to visit?
Yes, all the major quirky statues and sculptures in Brno are located in public spaces. You can view them for free at any time of day or night. This makes exploring the city's art scene very budget-friendly for all types of travelers.
Can you walk to all the statues in one day?
Absolutely. Most of the famous sculptures are located within the compact historic center. You can easily see the top ten items on a leisurely three-kilometer walk. The city center is mostly flat, though some areas near the cathedral have slight inclines.
Brno offers a refreshing take on public art that you won't find elsewhere. The quirky statues and sculptures in Brno make every walk through the city an adventure. Whether you are catching a marble or laughing at a tiny stone man, these sights create lasting memories. Don't forget to explore other nearby wonders like the Capuchin Crypt mummies. Start planning your trip to this creative Moravian capital today!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Go To Brno — Official tourism portal; unverified source.
- City of Brno — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
- UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat — International heritage designation; unverified source.
- Lonely Planet Brno — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.
- Brno-Tuřany Airport — Official airport authority; unverified source.
